September 26 2022 0Comment
replacement windows in La Jolla, CA

How to Clean Vinyl Windows Like A Pro

Vinyl windows are highly durable windows that can last more than 30 years. But for that to happen, you have to take proper care of them. That means regular cleaning and health checks. It’s nothing complicated, just a few routines recommended by replacement window professionals in La Jolla, CA.

Before we get into it, you will need some household cleaning supplies. They include:

  • White vinegar
  • Water
  • Soft microfiber cloth or sponge
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Mild detergent
  • Spray bottle

Once you have those, use each step below to clean your vinyl windows properly.

Check the windows for necessary repairs

First, do some inspection. Take a close look at the frame and window. Is it warping? Are there cracks or mold? If you have screens, check them for rips and cuts. Is there fog in the glass?

Performing these checks will help you solve problems early. Plus, you can accurately determine the cause of an issue if you know what the window looked like before you started cleaning.

Remove sash and screens

Cleaning the vinyl windows without removing the sash (or screens) is perfectly okay. But some homeowners find it easier. Gently remove the sash and screens, dust them out and place them on a flat surface.

Then vacuum dirt from the track. Use a plastic putty knife if there is larger debris.

Be careful with the glass. Find an extra pair of hands if you need it. Also, make sure no child plays around the window. You don’t want them to fall through.

If you don’t want to remove the sash, use the vacuum cleaner to remove dirt, cobwebs, and other abrasive particles that may rub the frame’s surface and cause scratches.

Wash the window

To wash the frame – whether you remove the sash or not – mix three parts of white vinegar with seven parts of water.

Mix it in the spray bottle, but if you can’t find one, a bucket works too. If you don’t like the smell of vinegar, add some lemon juice to diffuse the scent.

Spray the solution onto the entire frame. Leave it for a couple of minutes to soak and loosen the dirt.

Then use the sponge or microfiber cloth to wipe down the frame and glass. Wipe from top to bottom or left to right to avoid leaving water spots.

Rinse the window with water and dry it afterward with a fresh cloth or towel to remove streaks or residue. Your vinyl window should look glowingly clean now.

What to Avoid

Do not use abrasive materials to clean or remove stubborn debris from the window. This includes objects like fine sand or bathtub cleaners. Doing so will damage the glass and vinyl surfaces.

Grease remover, chlorine bleach, and strong soaps or detergents with organic solvents are bad for vinyl windows. They damage the surface and turn the white frames yellow.

Don’t use a power washer. It’s too aggressive to clean a window at close range. Even if you remove the sash, it can still damage the frame surfaces and create leaky areas.

That’s how to clean vinyl windows. It takes less than 10 minutes to clean one window. If you have a lot of windows and don’t have the time, feel free to call professional cleaners.

And for additional questions about window maintenance, give us a call. As replacement windows providers in La Jolla, CA, we care about your windows, and our professional staff is available to answer them.