Why window cleaning is more important think you think?
Don’t underestimate the value in keeping your windows clean. Most people think it’s all about the sparkle, but in reality there are some very good reasons why window cleaning is more important than you might think.
Most people really like it when their windows are clean, but don’t like the process of cleaning them or having them cleaned. It could be that this unpopular task gets ignored because people don’t know how important it actually is, and why it shouldn’t be at the bottom of their priority list.
You Need to Keep Your Windows Clean, Here’s Why…
In today’s world, everyone is concerned about being energy efficient, and your windows can make a difference. You may think that by having energy efficient windows you’ve done all you can do, but you may be surprised to know that even dirt particles on your windows can lower their heating efficiency. As dirt particles build up on the surface and in the pores of your windows, they begin to reflect some of the UV light away from your home, lowering the amount of sun that can enter and add warmth.
The integrity of the glass may become weakened and more easily shattered, and the transparency can become clouded due to the effects of dirt remaining on your windows. Because glass is porous, (not everyone is aware of this), dirt and microorganisms can build up inside the pores, reducing the strength of your windows. Besides dirt, other things that can damage your windows and should be cleaned off are:
- acid rain
- an accumulation of minerals left behind from hard water
- oxidation that occurs from window screens and/or metal window frames
- accidental overspray from construction materials such as paint, mortar, chalk, drywall texture or other substances
Clean Windows Prevents Glass Degradation
Acid rain and hard water can cause a build-up of debris on your windows, sills, and window frames. Aside from looking bad, acid rain will damage your home and glass windows over time.
clean windows in a Toronto home, letting in natural light
Dirt particles will enter the glass’ pores, contaminating and corroding the windows. The first things you may notice will be some light scratches or cracks. Eventually, an unmaintained window can be altered on a structural level and will need a full replacement. Cleaning your windows will prevent this outcome and give your windows far more longevity.
Keeping your windows clean is especially important if you live near a roadway or construction site. Overspray from salting roads or spray paint can be bad for your home. Removing hard minerals is simple when you hire a professional window cleaning service. They have the know-how to use the best cleaning solutions for the job, leaving a smudge and streak-free finish. Most professional offer free quotes so you have nothing to lose by calling.
Prolong the life of your glass panes and window frames
Your window panes are exposed to tough weather and collect dirt and grime, that over time, make them fragile and cause them to loss their transparency. The longer the hard minerals, acid rain and oxidation is allowed to sit on the surface of glass, the harder the stains are to remove. This could completely ruin your windows. Frequent window cleaning makes it easy to remove the stubborn hard water stains, grime and mould that are a common problem giving your windows extra years. This is also gentle on your pocket over time.
Increase professional business image
If you own or run a business, this is important to know. Studies show that windows significantly affect the way customers perceive the credibility of a business. Consciously or unconsciously, most of the potential customers will pay attention to the cleanness of your windows when visiting the store. Bright clean windows will testify an attitude of paying attention to detail and represent the business as trustworthy and attractive.
How Often Should I Clean My Windows?
It’s a great question. However, to give an objective answer to this question, one has to analyse their specific conditions and the environment they live in. If you live close to a busy road, the gasses and heavy elements will build up much faster than on the windows of a person living close to a park.
First of all, think about a frequency of rain in your area, all sources of pollution (both natural and human-caused).
Secondly, just observe how fast your windows attract dirt. You might take a notice on how often people on your street wash their windows.
Thirdly, re-consider your cleaning solutions. Nowadays, it is easy to fall in love with all those beautiful packagings and promises to gift you with the most beautiful sparkling windows. But the truth is that you don’t need all those chemicals (for the cases of mediocre pollution levels in the area).
How to find a good professional window cleaning service
Since window washing is hardly as complex a task as many other home improvement services, the potential for running into less-than-professional window cleaning companies is higher than it is for kitchen remodeling or basement finishing companies. Never hire window washers from a flyer on your car or ones drumming up business going door-to-door.
Check Online Ratings
Good contractors have happy customers. Research their reviews and ratings online. You’ll find plenty of authentic and honest reviews on local business databases and social media. You can also vet window cleaning services in your area.
Check Their Credentials
Professional window cleaners may also pursue certifications to enhance their expertise. For example, certifications from the IWCA (International Window Cleaning Association) are highly sought after.
Standard homeowners can check if their contractor is “route residential certified”, which means that the contractor has passed four exams about residential window cleaning. If you have a commercial property, your contractors may carry the following four certifications, which means they have passed the exams about washing windows on complex high-rise buildings.
- Commercial Ground
- Rope Descent Systems
- Suspended Scaffolds
- High Rise Specialist
Note: Though these certifications are valued, many window cleaners don’t have them. To find a qualified contractor, you can also ask a few vital questions.