Vinyl windows need proper care to last as much as they can. They are not high maintenance, but there’s still the wrong way to clean them. This guide contains tips on the best way to clean vinyl windows from replacement window professionals in Goshen, IN.
Things You Need
Just general household cleaning tools. Here is what you need to clean vinyl windows:
- A few microfiber cloths
- Spray bottle
- Vacuum
- Soft bristle brush
- Mild detergent
How to Clean the Windows
To clean the exterior of the window, start with the frame. Make a solution of 30% vinegar and 70% water. You can also use mild soap and water or baby shampoo.
Then gently spray the entire frame to soak the dirt. After a few minutes of softening the dirt, wash with a microfiber cloth or soft brush. Rinse thoroughly when you finish.
As for the glass, use the vinegar mix or a chemical solution made specifically for cleaning glass to spray the glass. Likewise, leave for some minutes to soften the dirt.
Then use the cloth, soft paper, or rubber-bladed squeegee to wash the glass. Rinse when you finish and wipe with a dry cloth to remove streaks.
The same process applies to cleaning the interior, except you should vacuum first. Use the vacuum cleaner to remove any particles and other forms of dirt. This is key because you don’t want to rub the abrasive particles into the frame’s surface when wiping.
What You Shouldn’t Do
Avoid using coarse materials to clean the glass or frame. This includes fine sand or bathtub cleansers. Abrasive materials scratch the surface and damage the frame’s coating.
Don’t use solvents with harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach or grease remover. Also, avoid strong soaps and detergents with organic solvents. They damage the glass surface and cause discoloration of the frames.
Don’t use razor blades, steel wool, metal tools, and other sharp objects to remove baked-in dirt. They will damage the frames’ coating and scratch the glass.
Never use a power washer to clean vinyl windows or other materials. As fun as a power washer can be, it’s too aggressive a tool to clean windows at close range. Using one will damage the frame’s surface, cause additional damages like opening up areas for leaks and insects, and break the seals.
Don’t clean in direct sunlight or extreme cold or hot temperatures. The cleansers will dry quickly in hot temperatures and leave a soapy residue. In cold temperatures, the window will dry too slowly and leave streaks.
Follow this routine at least once in six months. Before you clean, make sure to check for structural problems. Look for loose calking, cracks, or mold. If you discover any issue, repair it as quickly as possible.
Replacement windows do not come cheap. Taking proper care of your windows is key to maximizing your investment. Call us if you have additional questions about getting or maintaining replacement windows in Goshen, IN.
