How to Wash Outdoor Windows
Most people wash their outdoor windows at least once a year and sometimes more often. Outdoor windows should be washed before installing window screens or painting. Cleaning outdoor windows is quite a chore, but here are a few tips that can make the job much quicker and easier. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Hose
- Bucket with warm water and soap solution of your choice
- Rough textured sponge for cleaning
- Squeegee
- Paper towels or cotton rags for drying that don't leave lint
Instructions
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1
Hose off the loose dirt from the windows using gentle pressure on the hose. By rinsing off the loose dirt you won't scratch the windows as you clean them.
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2
Mix the cleaning solution with the warm water. Use dishwashing liquid with water for lightly soiled windows. Add vinegar or ammonia for windows with heavier soil. Add cornstarch to get windows shiny clean. Alcohol added not only helps clean windows with less streaking, but helps outdoor windows dry quickly.
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3
Wet the sponge with the solution and clean the windows, using a horizontal cleaning motion. If you clean the interior windows vertically, then clean the outdoor windows horizontally; you'll be able to tell which side of the window has streaks. After you've made the initial pass, clean the sponge and wipe the windows again if necessary.
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Swipe the window with the Squeegee, starting at the top. Place the Squeegee at the top left corner of the window and draw it horizontally across the window. When you've reached the end of the first swipe, wipe the Squeegee blade on a cloth to remove excess drips. Place the Squeegee on the left side of the window, overlap the first swipe, and pull to the right side of the window. Continue using the Squeegee by pulling it horizontally and cleaning it at the end of each swipe.
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Dry the excess moisture from the outdoor window by using a stiff type of paper towel or a cotton cloth. The stiff type of paper towel leaves less lint on the window. A soft cotton rag helps clean the streaks and any marks left by the Squeegee.
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Tips & Warnings
Never wash outdoor windows in direct sunlight because they will streak.
Work quickly when drying outdoor windows to eliminate streaks.
