The outside of your windows probably has a lot of buildup. After all, they are exposed to dirt, dust, pollen, debris, rain, and sun. Grimy windows will limit the amount of sunlight filling your space as well as detract from the overall appeal of your home. And while the chore of cleaning windows may seem pretty straightforward, many homeowners still get it wrong and end up needing replacement windows in Phoenix, AZ long before they might have with proper maintenance. So here are some tips to follow to help your windows last even longer.

Safety First

When washing your windows, safety is the most important thing to consider. If your home is higher than one story, it can be difficult to clean the exterior windows. Most residential ladders are not tall enough or sturdy enough to clean second-story windows. And the problem will be made even worse if you don’t like heights. Fortunately, most modern windows hinge or detach in a way that makes them easier to clean. Also never put yourself in a situation where your upper body is reaching outside the window. There are several other things you can do and tools you can use to clean your windows safely and avoid putting yourself at risk.

Use the Right Tools

When it comes to maintenance, it all starts with the right tools. You should never use harsh chemicals, abrasives, or power washers to clean the outside of your windows. Any one of these could do more harm than good. All you need are a few basic tools like a bucket, a telescoping pole, large sponges or a window washing arm, a squeegee, and a chamois.

Clean with Cold Water and Mild Detergent

When washing the outside of your windows, first rinse with cold water. This will help get rid of some of the dirt and prevent the dry dirt from scratching while you clean. Then use a combination of cold water, vinegar, and mild detergent to remove the grime from your windows. This combination of ingredients will remove dirt and prevent static buildup. Also note, the less sudsy the mixture, the better.

Don’t Forget to Rinse

Once you have scrubbed the window with the detergent, don’t forget to rinse away the soap before drying. Any detergent left behind could leave a streaky residue. So rinse your windows until the water runs clear.

Dry With a Squeegee

For a streak free shine, you want to dry your windows with a squeegee. Starting at the top, wipe the glass in a “z” pattern so all the water runs down the window. And between each wipe, dry the squeegee with a towel to prevent drips on the clean parts of the glass.

Wipe the Frame Dry with a Chamois

You don’t want any residual water on the window. So wipe the remaining window frame with a damp chamois to sop up the last of the water. Once done you can enjoy the shine and sparkle of your clean windows.

For more tips on keeping your replacement windows in Phoenix, AZ looking new contact the experts at Freelite Inc.