Dirty, dusty and grimy, many homeowners don’t think of cleaning their windows until they can’t put it off any longer. However, there’s much more to dirt and grime on your windows than meets the eye. The glass used to make the windows is actually porous. This means that it is affected by the elements. Exposure to various environmental contaminants, therefore, has an impact on more than the window’s aesthetics. Regular cleaning by professional window washing services will help to not only improve the appearance of your windows but also increase their durability.

How contaminants affect your windows

Both the interior and exterior surfaces of window glass are exposed to contaminants. These surfaces accumulate dirt, dust and grime over time. If these contaminants are left on the surface of the windows, they can cause the glass to wear down. You may notice issues such as cracking and etching on the window glass.

Windows are also exposed to moisture in the atmosphere. When condensation forms on the interior or exterior surface of the window, it can cause the seal around the glass to wear out. This in turn will result in insulation issues, which will cause your energy bills to rise. Allowing moisture to accumulate on the window seal can also result in the growth of mould or mildew. This will put the health of your household at risk.

Dirt and debris that has accumulated on the window can also result in problems with the mechanics of the window. When dirt and debris accumulate on the sliding tracks, it can make it difficult to open or close the window. Dirt accumulated on the hinges can also affect the operation of the window.

How to make your windows last longer

Modern windows are designed to last for about 20 years. However, this is only possible with proper care and maintenance. Neglecting your windows will result in premature wear and tear. Your windows will begin to show visible signs of damage such as cracks and scratches. They will also begin to experience issues such as difficulty in opening or closing or rotting of the window frame. Many people find that they are forced to replace their windows well before their time. If you want to avoid this cost and extend the life of your windows, do the following.

• Clean your windows regularly
  One of the best ways to extend the life of your windows is to invest in professional window washing services on a regular basis. Professional cleaning gets rid of dirt, dust and grime accumulated on the window. This not only ensures that your windows are looking bright and clean but also reduces the wear and tear on the windows.

  It is best to hire professional services for cleaning residential windows for the best results. Professional services will use specially formulated cleaning solutions that are gentle on the windows and will get rid of microbes such as mould. These professionals come fully equipped to ensure safety while cleaning the windows. Having the exterior surface of your windows cleaned at least twice a year will help you avoid having to replace them prematurely.

• Clean the window screens
  While window screens aren’t technically part of the window frame, it is important to ensure they are cleaned regularly too. Accumulation of dirt, grime or moisture on the window screens can affect the seals of your window.

  When you hire a professional window cleaning service, check to ensure that cleaning the screens is part of the service.

• Wipe down your windows regularly
  It is important to wipe down the interior surface of your windows regularly. This will help to get rid of dirt or grime accumulated on the interior surface of the window. Make this a part of your monthly house cleaning routine. You may need to wipe down the windows and window frames more regularly in colder seasons. This is because condensation is likely to form on the surface of the windows.

  Inspect your windows in between cleans. If you notice dirt or moisture on the windows, be sure to wipe them down.

• Lubricate window hardware
  It is important to keep the window hardware lubricated. This will keep it working properly. Pay special attention to moving pieces such as hinges and metal tracks. Wipe down the hardware with soapy water to get rid of dirt and grime. Rinse off the soap and wipe down the surfaces to remove moisture. Use a silicone-based lubricant on the metal surfaces.

  Neglected windows succumb to wear and tear much faster. Don’t put off the cleaning of your windows any longer. Get in touch with us for professional window cleaning that will increase the longevity of your windows. R’n’D window and Gutter Cleaning offers professional residential window cleaning services in Puyallup, Federal Way, Auburn and the surrounding Puget Sound Cities.