KC’s highly regarded and meticulous cleaning techniques
My Equipment
- Squeegee: Essential for streak-free windows.
- Scrubber: Sleeve and t-bar to apply the cleaning solution.
- Surgical Towels: For wiping down frames and sills.
- Window Cleaning Solution: A mix of water and a few drops of dish soap.
- Bucket: For mixing cleaning solution.
- Razor Blade Scraper: For removing tough spots like paint or stickers.
- #0000 Ultra Fine Steel Wool: Very fine steel wool to remove paint, grime, adhesive and hard water safely.
- Utility Belt and Pouch: In order to have all the tools at hand for ease of use.
- Paint Brush: Works well to clean out stubborn tracks.
- Painters Tool: Useful to pry out bug screens safely.
- Drill: Use to loosen screws holding sun screens and tighten them up again.
- Extension Pole: For reaching high windows without a ladder.
- Step Ladder: If you need to reach higher areas safely.
- Stack/Window cleaning Ladder: A high end, expensive ladder for professionals to reach high panes to clean.
Getting a Deeper Clean
Prepare Cleaning Solution
Mix solution in the bucket. Simple recipe:
- 1 gallon of water
- 2 cup of white vinegar
- A few drops of dish soap
This mixture is effective at cutting through grime and leaves a streak-free finish.
Apply the Cleaning Solution
I swish my Ettore sleeve and t-bar into the cleaning solution and apply it generously to the window, starting at the top and working my way down. Making sure the entire surface is covered, paying special attention to any particularly dirty spots.
Scrub the Glass
Using a scrubber, I scrub the window thoroughly. Applying a bit more pressure to areas with stubborn grime or spots. I’ll wipe my hand over the wet window and check for grime. If necessary, I’ll use #0000 ultra fine steel wool to gently remove any stuck-on debris and if there is paint, you may have to even use a razor to get it off. There is a chance of scratching with a razor so I use caution and hold blade at an angle.
Squeegee Off the Solution
This step is crucial for achieving streak-free windows:
- Start at the Top: Place the squeegee at the top corner of the window.
- Use the ‘fanning’ method to remove the soapy water.
- Give attention to hard water, grime, adhesive, paint and other debris.
- Repeat scrubbing window with the soap solution and squeegee off till desired results.
- Wipe the Edges: Use a dry surgical towel cloth to wipe any remaining solution from the edges and corners of the window.
Frames and Sills
Once the glass is clean, I’ll use a damp towel to wipe down the window frames and sills. Drying them with a separate cloth to prevent water spots.
By following these steps, you can achieve crystal clear windows that enhance the beauty and brightness of your home. Regular cleaning not only improves the appearance of your windows but also extends their lifespan, ensuring you enjoy clear views for years to come. Happy cleaning! Or you can just call me.
Don’t Forget about Cleaning those Stubborn Screens
To restore your screens to their original pristine condition, I employ a meticulous cleaning process. First, I use a duster to remove as much dirt and debris as possible. Then, I dampen a rag with a specialized product called Screen Magic and meticulously scrub the screens until they are spotless. This comprehensive approach ensures that your screens are left looking as good as new, providing you with a clear and unobstructed view.
Lastly, Track Cleaning
In addition to cleaning the glass and screens, I go the extra mile to ensure that every aspect of your windows is spotless. I meticulously scrub out all the stubborn dirt and grime from the tracks and sills, leaving no corner untouched. This comprehensive cleaning experience guarantees that your windows not only look pristine but also function smoothly.