Clean Windows In Just 6 Steps

Windows that shine with resplendence and allow the proper amount of sunlight into a home are not easy to obtain nor maintain. The windows of a home tend to sully quickly in optimal environments but when you add foliage, pests, moisture, and extreme heat to the mix keeping windows clean and looking good becomes problematic. This isn't to suggest that windows can not be cleaned when they are subjected to any of the aforementioned or are left neglected for a time but rather that returning them to an illustrious state is extremely difficult. In fact, so difficult is it that many homeowners turn to a professional window cleaner at such a point.

Professional window cleaners not only utilize industrial grade tools and cleaning solutions but the experience they bring to the job only makes their results all the more impressive. Not everyone wants to hire a professional however nor can all homeowners afford one. For such persons we offer the following window cleaning tips that will help your home's windows stay clean, remain looking good, and help protect them moving forward.

Your Tools Of Choice

In order to properly and thoroughly clean windows on your own you'll need a solid set of tools. You don't want to go too cheap when putting your window cleaning tool set together but most items are readily accessible and inexpensive.

• Gloves - Gloves should be worn by both professionals and homeowners whilst cleaning windows. While using harsh toxic cleaning chemicals isn't recommended for a number of reasons, even the mild yet effective eco-friendly cleaning solutions available today can take their toll on your skin. Moreover gloves protect the hands from cuts and scrapes as well. Just about any type of glove will work. Those with latex allergies however will want to select gloves made of vinyl or some other material. Wrist high gloves can be utilized in window cleaning however dish sized gloves are recommended as they tend to be thicker and protect the forearms in addition to the hands.

• Soft bristled Brush/Dust Cloth - A soft bristled brush is a tool that's an absolute must in window washing. The soft bristles won't scratch windows and will remove surface debris quite easily. This is a vital step in the cleaning process that when overlooked renders future steps useless. Alternatively, the do-it-yourselfer can opt for a dust cloth instead. A dust cloth will remove some loose debris from windows but it may not always remove the more obstinate types of debris found on windows. Both options are effective here though a brush produces the better results.

• Soak It Up - A good sponge goes a long way in the world of window washing. Your sponge will be responsible for gently massaging away debris and residue from your windows and applying ample amounts of "soap" to them as well. For these reasons you'll want a quality sponge and there are many designed specifically for window washing. These can be found at retail and home improvement stores so don't fall back on your kitchen sponge for this type of work.

• Lint Free Soft Cloth - A soft yet lint free cloth is a must when you want your windows to look their best. During the drying process too many laypersons rely on old rags for drying. While these will certainly dry windows, they'll leave streaks, spots, and smudges behind which renders your work useless. Lint free soft cloths on the other hand are excellent at absorbing water and dirt and as such will leave windows sparkling after they are dried.

• Squeegee - Morosely, too many homeowners simply forego a squeegee and instead rely solely on cloths for drying. Squeegees play a vital role in the window cleaning process as they remove excessive amount of water and solution from windows without leaving streaks. So as you can see a squeegee is indeed important but it's also important to utilize a high quality squeegee in your work lest your windows be left with streaks and smudges.

• Buckets - This one is a no-brainer. A bucket is essential to any window cleaning job as it will be the device in which your water and cleaning solutions rests. There are different types of buckets made specifically for window cleaning and the type you need will depend largely on the type and size of job looming ahead of you. If you're working on a multi-storied home for example, you'll need a bucket that is easily carried or portable so that it can ascend and descend ladders and lifts with you. Conversely, single story homes can be cleaned with any simple bucket that's large enough to dip your cleaning tools into.

• Spray bottle - A good spray bottle will save a do-it-yourself window cleaner a good deal of hassle. This is because spray bottles carry and apply cleaning solutions to windows. The right spray bottle should never be too large nor small and should be attachable to a belt so that it can be carried sans hands.

• White vinegar - Unbeknownst to a great deal of homeowners, white vinegar makes for one heck of a window cleaning solution. More than that, vinegar is strong enough to remove even calcium from windows but is non toxic and being natural, is safe for the environment. Moreover white vinegar is safe for all types of windows, regardless of what type of glass they are made from.

• Hot water - Never use water that can scald your skin but reasonably hot water loosens caked on dirt and debris from windows. Used in conjunction with white vinegar, the two make a very effective and chemical free window cleaner.

Let's Get To Cleaning

1. Watching The Weather: There once existed a time where we relied on our local news stations to provide us with weather predictions. In the modern era not only has meteorology improved vastly but our access to it is a mere few clicks away. Whether it's a mobile device, a computer, smart TV, or some other electronic device, we can check weather forecasts quickly and with ease. Prior to washing your windows you'll want to spend a moment to check on what your local forecasts look like. Avoid cleaning your windows if rain or extreme weather is predicted. Avoid overly windy days as well as those that are likely to include high heat and any form of precipitation. Look for a minimum of 7 days good weather.

2. Dry Cleaning Your Windows: Wait, what? Dry cleaning's for sensitive fabrics isn't it? Well that's true but you can and should clean your windows with a soft brush or dust cloth prior to doing anything else. This will remove things like cobwebs, pests, and loose dirt/dust and prepare them for deeper cleaning.

3. Mixing Your Own Concoction: While you can certainly purchase window cleaning solutions, the vast majority of these contain toxic chemicals or pose some sort of health risk. Even those that are eco-friendly are usually overpriced but there's a way to avoid both of these issues. Mixing your own cleaning solution is surprisingly easy, inexpensive, and very effective. Try creating a solution that's 50% white vinegar and 50% water. This solutions costs very little and will do a better job at cleaning your windows than will harsh chemicals.

4. Removing Dirt: Utilizing your sponge or perhaps a lint free cloth, you can remove dirt from your windows after water has been applied to them. During this step in the process try and prevent your solution from coming into contact with your window frames. This will prevent staining and moisture damage from occurring.

5. Squeegee Tips: When the time arrives for you to bring out your squeegee there are a few thing you'll want to remember in order to maximize its efficiency. For starters you should always wet your squeegee so that it doesn't skip. Secondly, always draw your squeegee down using straight strokes to avoid streaking. Lastly, always dry your squeegee after every stroke using a second lint free cloth. This drying will remove dirt and residue and keep it from being reapplied to your windows.

6. Don't Forget The Frames: So now your windows look great, inside and out, and you're ready to call it a day. Not so fast! Window cleaning doesn't end until windows frames are wiped by both damp and dry cloths. The damp cloth will remove any residue and debris that may have made its way onto your frames and the dry cloth will soak that moisture up and prohibit any more from finding its way there.

Schedule A Free Estimate Call 949-786-0816

Why Not Professional Window Cleaning?

Washing windows is probably not your favorite thing in the world to do, but it’s a fact that it’s got to be done. A professional window cleaner can accomplish in mere hours when it would take you days to accomplish the same thing. When the cleanliness of your home is on your shoulders, why not hire a professional window cleaner who will get the job done in about a quarter of the time it took you.

Of course you want someone you can trust, and those home repair and clean people seem to be a dime a dozen. Since you clicked on this web site, let me tell you what we can do for you.
First of all, we are a reputable business that has been in business for several years. We have a reputation that we can get the job done in record time.

Licensed, Bonded, And Trusted

We are licensed and bonded, and members of the Better Business Bureau. We also have several references of satisfied customers. We will give you the names and phone numbers in your area. Please check them out. We also have contracts and discounts, for those who allow us to clean their windows on a continuing basis.

You probably know by your own experience that it’s a talent to wash windows. You also know that your windows are the first thing visitors see as they walk into your home. If your windows are a mess, most people believe the entire house is in the same condition. Your windows need to shine and we can do that for your home inside and out.

Commercial Window Cleaning

If you own a business, clean windows are a necessity, and the small amount you pay that professional is definitely a business expense. So hire the best and those who are serious about the  position will prove to be worth every dollar. If you’re concerned about what product we use, we will be happy to tell you the products we use.

As you search for a professional window cleaner, you may find those who go out of their way to convince you to hire them. When they hand out their business card you’ll find phrases like: Quotes in minutes; a full range of cleaning services; competitive rates; pros you can trust; 
we do indoor cleaning as well as outside.

Cleaning windows inside and out makes sense and many do one or the other but not both.  Make sure before you hire a person how much they charge and what area they will clean. Those inside cleaners have to deal with blinds, drapes and other items that cover windows, plus furniture will that make the inside cleaning difficult.

Businesses often have their windows painted inside and hire the cleaner to wash off the paint once they’ve served their purpose. For instance, Christmas scenes should be off the windows by the day after Christmas.

The Professional Window Cleaning Difference

When you hire a housekeeper they should let you know that they “Don’t do windows.” Windows take up too much time so normally they leave that job for others. Why do you think that is? Do windows take too much time? Or possibly because they can’t get away without doing a thorough job, because it shows.

As you go out and about, check the windows. In big towns you’ll find skyscrapers and that takes professionals and lots of equipment. In new homes some of those windows are nine or ten feet tall and eight to twelve feet wide. Entire walls are often filled with an assortment of  windows, and a window cleaner will use the products that best suit your home or business.

Ammonia and vinegar are two of the most popular cleaners, but many professionals often create their own products instead of relying on products that may leave residue around your windows. You’ll want the entire area to shine like new and not be covered with dull products.

Rules To Work By

Let me tell you a few of my own rules as a reputable Professional Window Cleaner. We live by these rules:

1.  I will call to remind you on the day before my scheduled time of arrival.
   
2.  If I’m going to be delayed for my appointment, I will call you and explain why I’m late re-scheduled the appointment for another time or day. The weather is usually the main cause. There are times when I will work through a light rain.
   
3. I have been in the business of Professional Window Cleaners for several years. For those who are looking for regular time commitments, I have contracts and offer discounts for your continuing scheduled dates.
   
4.  I have many local references and I will give you their name and phone number for you to check them out.

We are a licensed, bonded, and insured professional window cleaning company. We have good records at the Better Business Bureau. We guarantee our all of our work.

For A  Free Orange County Window Cleaning Quote Call 949-786-0816

Professional Chandelier Cleaning

Chandeliers do much more than illuminate a room. They add both elegance and charm to any room in which they are located. These pieces are commonly found in dinning rooms and at the front of a home as they are built to impress. The glamour of a chandelier shines all throughout a home regardless of where it might be located but left neglected their resplendence will diminish until there is naught left but dust and grime where luster once reigned supreme.

The fact that many a chandelier falls into a state of neglect comes as no surprise when you consider how difficult and inconvenient they can be to clean. Such a job requires a good ladder, multiple trips up and down said ladder, a number of cloths, a bucket, cleaning solutions, and knowledge of how to clean chandeliers safely. All of this is enough to dissuade even the most determined and ardent of individuals but there is hope. Homeowners with troubled chandeliers have a number of options that they can explore.

Hiring Professional Chandelier Cleaners

Hiring a professional to clean your chandelier is undoubtedly the easiest way to return your debonair illuminator to a respectful and impressive state. Professional window cleaners are not only surprisingly affordable but they come to the job with all of the tools, solutions, and experience required to produce phenomenal results. Moreover, professionals work safely and can clean a chandelier in a fraction of the time it will take you to do it. While professionals are cleaning you can spend the time doing something you actually want to do.

The Do It Yourself Approach

This approach to chandelier cleaning isn't nearly as simple as hiring a professional nor is it more affordable despite what many erroneously believe. It is however a feasible option for those whom truly want a challenge and insist on doing the job themselves. Individuals whom choose this path will require a number of different tools and will need to keep several things in mind. These are as follows:

A Sturdy Ladder - While ladders are commonly found in the majority of homes, not all of these are suitable for service. Ladders that wobble or sit unevenly pose serious risk to those whom ascend and descend them. This is especially true of those whom carry tools up and down their steps. A ladder in questionable or poor condition can result in falls and broken bones. Falls may also cause tools to break, expensive solutions to spill onto floors, and ultimately delay work.  Having a dependable and sturdy ladder at your disposable can make or break your efforts.

Soft Cloths - There are those do-it-yourselfers whom utilize old rags, newspapers, or paper towels in the cleaning of their chandeliers. Unfortunately all of these items will not only leave streaks and spots but they have the potential to scratch your chandeliers. Though it's often the glass that falls victim to this type of cleaning, the metal frame of a chandelier can also be affected. The do-it-youselfer is best served by having a few soft lint free cloths on hand for the job. These can be purchased at any retail or home improvement store and are soft enough so as to avoid damaging glass. They are also highly absorbent and will pick up not only cleaning residue but any debris that may have survived your initial cleaning effort. Professional glass cleaners further recommend that laypersons utilize dye free cloths as well and for obvious reasons.

Cleaning Solutions - Choosing a cleaning solutions may well be the most mind numbing part of the chandelier cleaning process. This is because there are a multitude of solutions available and not all of them are good nor safe. More to the point, many of these are made up entirely of harsh chemicals that pose health risks. Fortunately, eco-friendly and non toxic cleaning solutions have become very popular and as such are also readily available. Store bought solutions, be them traditional or "green", tend to be expensive and a bit pretentious and so laypersons can and should consider mixing their own. Wait, what's that you say...mix my own chemicals? Before you get too worked up homemade cleaning solutions do not involve any chemicals and instead make use of white vinegar, water, and sometimes citrus. A vinegar/water solutions that's half and half is a potent cleaning agent that can safely remove dirt and all forms of debris from your chandeliers. Aside from a very pungent taste, this solution won't do any harm to persons nor pets in your home.

Tool Belt - Although chandelier cleaning doesn't require a cornucopia of tools, you'll want the tools you do use to be easily transportable and readily accessible. Tool belts made specifically for glass and window cleaning can be found at retail outlets and are relatively inexpensive. Consider purchasing one to make your work more efficient and less strenuous. Having your cloths and cleaning solution at your hip will save you a good deal of time.

Spray Bottle - While some may view a spray bottle as extraneous or even gratuitous in this type of work, using one will make you question such opinions. As they house your cleaning solution, a spray bottle can help you safely and accurately apply said solution to all the areas of your chandeliers. Furthermore, a spray bottle will save you multiple trips up and down your ladder.

Something For Your Floor - Cleaning chandeliers poses risk not only to individuals who clean them but the floors directly beneath them as well. Not only will loose debris and dirt fall to the floor as you begin cleaning but cleaning solutions inevitably build up and are pulled by a massive gravitational force back down to the floor. Both the debris and cleaning solutions can sully a floor and be considered problematic when they fall on carpeting or hardwood floors. It therefore stands to reason that protecting your floors during chandelier cleaning makes sense, yes? You can effectively shield your floors by utilizing thick towels and mats as both will not only catch falling solutions and debris but prohibit the scratches and scuffs that ladders can leave on floors.

Removing Your Chandelier - It's not always necessary for cleaning but uninstalling your chandelier and bringing it down to ground level will allow you to address all of it's concerns with greater attention to detail and accuracy. Doing so will also make your work far less dangerous though the risk of injury remains in bringing a chandelier to the floor. It's also possible to irreparably damage your chandelier during it's transfer but with some care and planning this can be avoided. Additionally, if you plan on bringing your chandelier down for cleaning you'll want to make this a team effort and a second pair of hands will serve both you and your chandelier well.

Reaching Out For Help

You may be insistent on cleaning your chandeliers yourself but the possibility of hitting a snag is always lingering in the shadows your chandelier casts. Should you ever have questions, run into a problem, or experience unusual difficulty in cleaning your chandelier, contacting a professional for help is highly advisable. In fact it behooves you to seek the assistance of those with more experience than you. Even if you choose not to hire them, most professional window cleaners will happily pass along advice and tips that will help you complete your work.

Free Chandelier Estimates Call 949-786-0816