Whether you choose to wash your windows in the spring or the fall, any time of the year is a great opportunity to check for any flaws in your vinyl windows that might cause bigger difficulties later on. Avoiding this type of problem, you are saving yourself potentially a lot of both time and money. When doing your window inspection, it is best that you c heck all windows for missing or loose caulking before you begin cleaning, and also keep an eye out for any apparent cracks or staining inside the windowpane. It would be a good idea to fix any problems as soon as possible. If the damages are too severe, it may be time to invest in replacement windows and doors and if you do decide to do so, you should contact a professional windows and doors contractor for details. When it comes to cleaning your vinyl windows, here are some do’s and don’ts that you must follow in order to take care of them properly.
Do’s
Use Gentle Cleaning Solutions
Harsh solvents like bleach or ammonia can harm the plastic substance that makes vinyl windows. The vinyl material may get discoloured or possibly break as a result of certain cleaning solvents. Utilising delicate cleaning agents that won’t harm the vinyl surface is therefore vital. One approach is to use a moderate solution of soap and water to clean vinyl windows. The windows can be cleaned of filth and debris using this method without suffering any harm. Simply use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe the windows after mixing a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Afterward, be sure to thoroughly rinse with clean water to get rid of any lingering soap traces. Using a vinegar solution to clean vinyl windows is another choice that most homeowners tend to use. Vinyl surfaces may be safely cleaned using vinegar, a natural cleaning solution. Use a spray bottle filled with a solution made of equal parts water and vinegar to clean the windows. Yet again, be sure to completely rinse with fresh water. Commercial vinyl window cleaners that are made particularly for use on vinyl surfaces are also available. These cleansers are designed to properly remove dirt and grime while being gentle on the vinyl material.
Clean the Frames and Tracks
Vinyl window frames and tracks may gather dirt and debris over time. This may result in problems including decreased energy efficiency, trouble opening and shutting the windows, and even vinyl material damage. As a result, it’s crucial to periodically clean these regions to keep them clear of dirt and debris. Start by removing any loose material with a soft-bristled brush or vacuum cleaner attachment with a soft brush before cleaning vinyl window frames and tracks. This will assist in clearing out any dirt or debris that has gathered in the frames’ or tracks’ corners or crevices. Next, clean the frames and tracks with a mild soap and water mixture or a professional vinyl window cleaner. Use a soft cloth or sponge to apply the solution, then use it to gently wash the surfaces of the frames and tracks. Afterward, be sure to thoroughly rinse with clean water to get rid of any lingering soap traces. Dry the frames and tracks fully with a clean, dry towel once they have been thoroughly cleaned. This will preserve the vinyl material in good condition and help prevent water stains from appearing.
Use a Soft Cloth or Sponge
The material used to make vinyl windows is strong and resilient, and it can endure routine washing. However, sharp or abrasive objects may scratch or ruin the vinyl’s surface, resulting in damage that is evident. On the other hand, a soft cloth or sponge is delicate enough to clean the vinyl without harming it. It’s crucial to use a cloth or sponge that is free of dirt or debris while cleaning vinyl windows. The vinyl surface can be scratched by any debris caught in the cloth or sponge, leaving behind marks that are hard to erase. In order to achieve a complete and successful cleaning, it is imperative to use a clean, soft cloth or sponge. Using a soft cloth or sponge not only prevents leaving behind streaks or water stains, but is also kind on the vinyl material. When a cleaning instrument is used too vigorously or when too much water is left on the window surface, these markings may appear. Homeowners may efficiently clean dirt and grime without leaving any unattractive stains or streaks by using a soft cloth or sponge.
Rinse Thoroughly
Soap residue could be left behind on vinyl windows if a cleaning solution is not thoroughly rinsed off of them. The windows might rapidly seem dirty again because to the soap residue’s ability to collect dirt and dust. In addition, soap residue can create streaks or patches on the glass that are challenging to clean and give the window an unpleasant appearance. Streaks on vinyl windows may be avoided by giving them a good rinse. Remaining cleaning agent or hard water, which can leave mineral deposits on the glass, can also generate streaks. By properly washing the windows, homeowners can guarantee that there is no remaining cleaning solution or hard water residue, preventing streaks from developing. If cleaning chemicals are not thoroughly rinsed out, they can be abrasive and damage vinyl windows, as well. The chemicals in cleaning agents have the potential to degrade the vinyl material over time, resulting in discoloration, cracking, or other damage. Homeowners may prevent this damage and keep their windows appearing clean and fresh by giving them a good rinse.
Dry Completely
Hard water minerals that stay on the surface of the windows after the water has evaporated are what generate water spots. Homeowners may avoid the development of water stains and maintain the bright, shining appearance of their vinyl windows by properly drying the glass after washing. Another frequent issue that might arise while washing vinyl windows is streaks. The soap residue, dust, or debris that is left on the windows after washing might generate streaks. Homeowners may eliminate any leftover residue and reduce streaks on the glass by properly drying the windows. After cleaning, moisture remaining on the windows can serve as a haven for mould and mildew. In addition to being unattractive, this may be bad for your health. By properly drying the windows, you can keep your house safe and sanitary by preventing the formation of mould and mildew. Although vinyl windows are strong and long-lasting, if moisture problems are not addressed, they may get damaged. After washing, fully drying the windows can help protect the vinyl and increase their lifespan.
Don’ts
Don’t Use Harmful Solvents
It is best that you don’t use solvent-containing cleaning products like grease remover, chlorine bleach, powerful soaps, and detergents. Each one of them has the ability to severely harm the vinyl surfaces and turn white picture frames yellow. Instead of using cleaning products that contain these kinds of solvents, you should use the cleaning products mentioned above. Again, these products will help you properly take care of your vinyl windows with ease and less stress.
Don’t Use a Power Washer
Power washers make exterior cleaning easy, but they also have the ability to damage the glass of any type of window. Power washers are far too forceful of cleaning implements, particularly up close. They can erode the surfaces of window frames, break through calking seals, and create openings for leaks and pest infestation. There are better, less harmful solutions that you can use to rinse down your windows. Any one of them can easily clean your windows in relatively the same amount of time.
Don’t Use Sharp Objects
Razor blades would have been the best window surface contamination removal tools twenty years ago. The windows of today, however, are considerably different; they may be coated with tough chemicals and tints that, while extremely durable when regularly cleaned, could be harmed or scraped off by metal objects. With that being said, you must be careful with what materials you use to clean your vinyl windows. You must avoid using any kind of sharp objects, as they can damage the condition of your windows, which will ultimately lead to you repairing them or replacing them and spending more of your time and money.
Don’t Clean in Hot Temperatures
It is recommended to avoid cleaning in bright sunshine or in extremely hot or cold conditions. This is due to the fact that cleansers will dry up too rapidly in hot conditions and leave a soapy residue. Furthermore, the windows will dry too slowly in colder weather, leaving streaks. With that being said, cleaning in either Spring or Fall is your best option as the temperatures in these seasons are moderate and perfect for cleaning your windows.
Cleaning your vinyl windows is important as it will maintain their current conditions and improve their overall look. There are various do’s and don’ts that you must follow in order to take care of your windows properly and some include using gentle cleaning solutions, rinsing them thoroughly, not using sharp objects and not cleaning in hot temperatures. By following all the tips above, you are ensuring that your windows and doors stay in their best conditions all year round.
