Living in Southwest Florida, comes with its own set of challenges, especially during hurricane season. Impact windows offer protection against the elements. However, like any part of your home, they need a little TLC to keep them looking their best. Keeping your impact windows spotless not only enhances curb appeal but also prolongs their life and ensures they work correctly. If you’re wondering how to properly clean your impact windows, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through every step to clean your windows inside and out and keep them looking great.
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Key Takeaways
- Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining both the appearance and functionality of impact windows
- The right supplies is crucial for effective cleaning without damaging the windows
- Both interior and exterior surfaces need special attention to prevent streaks and stains
- Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your impact windows and keep them looking great
Understanding the Importance of Cleaning Impact Windows
Impact windows are more than just a barrier against hurricanes. And they do more than boost your home’s curb appeal. They are a crucial part of your home’s defense system, providing not only safety but also energy efficiency and noise reduction.
Keeping your windows clean of dirt and salt ensures they function at their best and look great while doing so. In Fort Myers and Southwest Florida the weather can be unpredictable and salt air can reek havoc. So you may need to clean your windows more often to ensure they can withstand the harsh conditions.
Importance of maintaining impact windows
Impact windows are designed to withstand the blows of hurricane-force winds and flying debris. However, dirt, grime, and salt deposits from the coastal air can build up, which can ruin the finishes over time. Regular maintenance reduces the risk of scratches and other damage that can occur when dirt is left to build up on glass and frames. Moreover, clean windows can enhance the clarity of your view and the amount of natural light entering your home. These two things create a more inviting and comfortable living space.
Cleaning also isn’t just about aesthetics. It helps identify any potential issues before they become serious problems.
Benefits of regular cleaning for durability and appearance
A consistent cleaning schedule can help extend the life of your impact windows. By removing corrosive substances like salt and dirt, you prevent them from eating away at the protective coatings and window materials. This helps maintain the window’s strength and durability.
From an aesthetic perspective, sparkling windows enhance your home’s curb appeal. Plus, who doesn’t love the look of freshly cleaned windows? We do!
Use the Right Supplies
Before you dive into the actual cleaning, it’s essential to get the right supplies. Having everything you need at your fingertips makes the process smoother and more efficient. Using the proper supplies also helps ensure there is no unintentional damage that might occur from using the wrong products.
List of supplies needed for cleaning the exterior of your impact windows
You’ll need a bucket, a squeegee, a soft microfiber cloth, a non-abrasive sponge, and a gentle window cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive pads or brushes. These can scratch the glass and damage the frame. A good option is a mixture of water and a small amount of gentle dish soap. This is cheap and it effectively cuts through grime without leaving residue or damaging your windows.
A step ladder can also be handy if your windows are high up or hard to reach.
And do not forget to protect your hands with a pair of rubber gloves, especially if you have sensitive skin or are working with cleaning solutions for an extended period.
Recommended cleaning products for the interior of your windows
For interior cleaning, opt for ammonia-free window cleaners to avoid damaging any tinting or protective coatings. Products like vinegar and water solutions are also effective and eco-friendly alternatives. If you prefer commercial products, look for those specifically labeled for use on glass for the best results.
Eurex Shutters suggests using microfiber cloths for their superior ability to trap dust and dirt without scratching the surface. They’re also reusable, making them a more sustainable choice for regular cleaning.
Cleaning the Exterior of the Impact Windows
Now comes the heart of the task: cleaning the exterior of your impact windows. With the right approach, you’ll have them shining in no time.
Step-by-step guide for cleaning the exterior of your impact windows
- Remove any screens so you can access the windows’ glass panels.
- Start by carefully rinsing the windows with a garden hose (not pressure washer) to remove loose dirt and debris. This initial rinse helps remove larger debris and prevents you from scratching the glass when you start scrubbing.
- Dip your non-abrasive sponge into a bucket filled with your gentle cleaning solution and begin washing the windows and frames. Use circular motions to lift away grime without applying too much pressure.
- After scrubbing, rinse the windows again to remove the soap suds and residue.
- Use a squeegee to remove excess water. Start at the top of the window and pull down in a smooth, steady motion. Wipe the squeegee blade with a clean cloth after each pass to avoid streaks.
- Finish by drying the edges and corners with a microfiber cloth to catch any remaining drips. These will cause water spots if not dried properly.
Tips for achieving a streak-free shine on the exterior of your windows
Achieving a streak-free shine on the exterior of your impact windows is definitely possible with a few tricks.
- Work on a cloudy day or during early morning hours to avoid direct sunlight. The harsh SWFL sun can cause the cleaning solution to dry too quickly, leaving streaks behind.
- Make sure your squeegee and cloths are clean and free from lint. Microfiber is a good option for a cloth.
- A not mandatory, but definitely helpful step is to use distilled water instead of tap water to rinse the soap off. This is especially true if your area has hard water. Mineral deposits from hard water can leave spots and streaks that are difficult to remove.
- If you notice any stubborn streaks, a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth should do the trick, leaving your windows sparkling.
Cleaning the Inside of Your Impact Windows
With the exterior of your windows gleaming, it’s time to turn your attention indoors. The inside of your windows may not face the elements as outside. But they do gather dust, fingerprints, and smudges that dull their appearance.
Step-by-step guide for cleaning the interior of impact windows
- Start by dusting the window frames and sills with a dry microfiber cloth to remove loose dirt.
- Spray a small amount of your window cleaning solution onto a clean cloth or sponge. This is preferred vs directly onto the glass. It helps to avoid overspray on your walls and floors.
- Gently wipe the glass in circular motions to lift away dirt and fingerprints.
- Once clean, use a dry microfiber cloth to buff the glass, removing any remaining moisture and preventing streaks. Pay extra attention to corners and edges where residue tends to accumulate. If you encounter any stubborn spots, a little rubbing alcohol on a cloth can help dissolve grease and grime. You may need to use the cleaning solution after to make it shine.
Regular Maintenance Tips for Impact Windows
Incorporating regular maintenance into your home care routine will keep your impact windows looking and working good. This involves more than just cleaning. It also includes periodic inspections and minor repairs.
Frequency of cleaning and maintenance for your impact windows
The frequency of cleaning largely depends on your environment and the weather. In Fort Myers, with its salty air and wet season thunderstorms, monthly cleaning is often sufficient. However, during pollen season or after a heavy storm, you might need to clean more frequently to maintain clarity and function. For example, a normal thunderstorm, which can happen daily, can kick up quite a bit of debris on your windows. You will have to judge the level of cleanliness you want to maintain.
Maintenance, on the other hand, should be scheduled every six months. This includes checking seals, hinges, and locks to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Addressing small issues sooner will limit larger repairs later.
Schedule for inspecting and maintaining impact windows throughout the year
It may be helpful to create a calendar reminder on your phone for bi-annual inspections. During these inspections, look for any signs of damage or wear on your impact windows. Check the seals around the window to ensure they’re intact and flexible, as damaged seals can lead to water leaks and drafts.
Spring and fall are ideal times for these routine checks, aligning with seasonal changes that might impact your windows.
In addition to these regular visual checks, you should check your windows after a hurricane to inspect for damage.
If you notice anything amiss, contact a professional like Eurex Shutters to assess and address any concerns. Using local experts will ensure your windows look and function like they should.
Conclusion
In conclusion, keeping your impact windows clean and well-maintained is crucial for preserving their appearance and functionality. Regular cleaning, paired with routine inspections, will keep them ready to face whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
FAQ
A: Cleaning impact windows regularly is essential for maintaining their appearance, as well as ensuring their longevity. Dirt, debris, and other pollutants can accumulate on the surface of the windows, which can not only make them look unsightly but can also compromise their functionality over time.
A: The best way to clean impact windows is to start by removing any loose debris with a soft brush or cloth. Then, mix a solution of mild detergent and water and use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub the windows. Rinse the windows with clean water and dry them with a soft, lint-free cloth to prevent streaking.
A: It is not recommended to use harsh chemicals, such as ammonia-based cleaners or abrasive cleaning pads, to clean impact windows. These chemicals can damage the surface of the windows and potentially void the warranty. Stick to gentle, non-abrasive cleaning solutions to ensure the windows stay in top condition.
A: It is recommended to clean impact windows at least twice a year, or more frequently if they are located in areas with high levels of pollution or dirt. Regular cleaning will help prevent the buildup of grime and debris, keeping the windows looking clear and functioning properly.
A: When cleaning impact windows, it is important to avoid using abrasive materials or scrubbing too vigorously, as this can scratch the surface of the windows. Additionally, be sure to rinse the windows thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residue from the cleaning solution. Taking these precautions will help ensure the windows remain in top condition for years to come.
