(801) 528-9495
Keeping your windows clean can go a long way toward improving the appearance of your house. Unfortunately, windows can become dirty at any time throughout the year, which may make it necessary to clean your windows during the winter months. However, it is important to keep in mind that the proper techniques need to be used for winter window washing, because certain things can cause much more harm than good to a cold window. Winter window washing may be particularly valuable, because it will allow more light to penetrate the windows, which will create a more cheerful environment to offset the lower amounts of sunlight during the winter. Here are some things that you need to know to follow the right processes for cleaning your windows during cold winter temperatures.
How to Clean Exterior Windows
It is vital to clean both the inside and outside of windows to ensure that they remain in the best possible condition and provide the best environment within a building. Cleaning the exterior windows will likely follow many of the same processes as cleaning interior windows. However, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind when washing the exterior windows of your building. You should avoid washing all windows with strokes that are in the same direction. For example, if you wash the interior of the window with a horizontal motion and wash the exterior in a vertical motion, you will be able to tell what side of the window any remaining streaks are located on.
Always follow safe practices when working on cleaning the exterior windows of your building. Use care when reaching higher windows. If you are using a ladder, have someone available to hold the ladder steady. The motions that are consistent with washing windows may cause a ladder to be somewhat unsteady, so it is important to ensure that the ladder is secure to prevent injury. Specific tools may be implemented to allow you to more easily reach these windows without putting yourself in danger. Pressure washing may also be a viable solution for cleaning the windows on the outside of your home. However, you may wish to hire a professional service to accomplish this, as pressure washing can potentially cause damage to your windows.
Tips for Winter Window Washing
When you undergo winter window washing, remove any snow and ice from around the window. Failure to do so may interrupt your window washing process. Use cold or room-temperature water only, because putting hot water on a cold window can cause it to crack. You will likely need to use a different cleaning solution than you otherwise would to prevent water from freezing while you wash the windows. Some people choose to use a combination of rubbing alcohol, water, and a few drops of liquid dish soap. Others use a windshield washing solution that is diluted with water. Either method will prevent the cleaning solution from freezing while you wash your windows during the winter. Make sure that you dress warmly prior to washing your windows.
Ultimately, the biggest danger of washing your windows in the winter is discomfort to yourself. Wear a hat to keep your head warm and ensure that you wear as many layers as necessary. Wear solid shoes with a good grip that will keep your feet warm and dry. You should also wear waterproof rubber gloves. This will both protect your hands from the temperature, as well as from the cleaning solution that you use.
Best Temperatures to Wash Windows
Most experts agree that exterior window washing is completed most effectively in the more moderate temperatures of the spring and fall months. This can both help improve the appearance of the home in time for graduation parties, as well as the winter holidays. It also prevents uncomfortable cleaning in the cold, as well as pre-mature evaporation of window cleaning solution in the summer months.
Regardless of the time of year in which you clean your windows, it is important to clean windows on an overcast day or early in the morning. When the sun is shining directly on the window, it can cause the cleaning solution to evaporate too quickly, which can leave streaks on the windows. Ensure that you check the weather forecast before you decide on which day you intend to wash your windows. Using the right techniques can allow you to clean your windows when they need cleaning, regardless of the time of the year.
When is it too Cold for Winter Window Washing?
Winter window washing should probably be done in temperatures above freezing. Primarily, temperature considerations (assuming you have a solution to prevent freezing) will be for your own comfort. If it is cold outside, you need to wear the appropriate clothing to protect yourself and ensure that you remain as comfortable as possible. Wear a hat and ensure that your shoes have an extremely good grip. If you need to stand on a ladder in cold temperatures to wash your windows, ensure that it is in good condition and is incredibly secure. You may benefit from having someone hold the ladder to prevent issues from occurring.
Contact Us for your Glass Needs
There are many factors that need to be taken under consideration for your windows during the winter months. For example, insulating your windows can go a long way toward improving the level of comfort within your building, as well as reducing your overall energy expenses. Energy-efficient windows can be an exceptionally useful upgrade to make to your home in preparation for the winter months. Appropriately maintaining your windows can help to ensure that they remain in good condition for as long as possible. However, eventually it will come time to replace your windows. Here at Moyes Glass, we offer an array of services that are designed to ensure that the windows of your building remain in the best possible condition. To learn more about the glass-related services that we offer, contact our experts at Moyes Glass today!
