How to Clean Commercial Windows?

Most of us like to see clean windows in our homes, but these are more important in commercial properties. Dirty windows give a bad and unprofessional image of a company, prevent natural light from entering the building and can adversely affect the mood and morale of employees.

Keeping windows clean is often seen as a difficult job that’s best left to a professional. Incorrect techniques can result in streaks, residual dirt and even damage to the glass and surrounds. So it is best to know how to do the job properly.

Using the Right Tools and Techniques

Washing residential windows often requires no more than a bucket of soapy water and a sponge. For commercial windows, however, you need better equipment to have the desired results:

• a soft brush to remove loose dirt
• a substantial bucket to hold the water and cleaning solution
• an effective cleaning solution
• a scraper to remove stubborn dirt
• a squeegee to clear off the water
• a microfibre cloth to wipe the edges and corners.

Choose a suitable glass cleaner, which may need to be effective at removing calcium and lime buildup if you are in a hard water area. In this case, distilled water for washing will avoid water spots caused by calcium. Ammonia is very effective and needs to be diluted with water, but it can damage the coating of tinted windows, so check before using.

Avoid cleaning in direct sunlight since this will dry the windows too quickly and leave streaks. Also, never use a pressure washer since this can damage the seals.

Clean your windows as follows:

1. Use a brush to remove spiders’ webs and any loose dirt.
2. Dissolve the cleaning fluid in a bucket of water at the recommended strength.
3. Use the sponge to apply the cleaning solution to the glass, ensuring you cover all areas, including the corners.
4. Use a scraper to remove stubborn dirt. A razor blade is the perfect tool, but only use this on wet glass that is not tinted and take great care to avoid scratching the surface. Blades can become blunt quickly, so change them frequently for the best effect.
5. Squeegee the glass to remove water and cleaning solution. It’s important you use the correct technique to avoid streaks and smears. Start in a top corner and, applying even pressure, pull the squeegee across to the opposite side. Repeat the process, working down the window until you reach the bottom and dry the squeegee between strokes.
6. Wipe the edges and corners with a microfibre cloth to ensure complete coverage.

Regular Cleaning Pays Dividends

Regular window cleaning will enhance the appearance of commercial windows and prolong their life by removing contaminants that can cause scratches and cracks. This can be particularly important in coastal areas where the air has a high salt content.

We can supply most of the equipment and materials you need to keep your commercial windows clean. Look through what we have available and contact us if you need help or advice.