Winter Window Cleaning Tips
Get That Snow Soot Off Your Winter Windows
With all the equal parts of snow and cold temperatures plummeting below zero, cleaning your windows might be the last thing that comes to mind. Fret not, we’ll show you the why’s and how’s of winter window cleaning so you can brave through the unforgiving weather.
Attire
Here’s the general rule of thumb for winter window cleaning: gear up before you face the snow storm. Remember, preparation is key for you to conquer the harsh weather effectively in an efficient manner. Compromising your health under these extreme circumstances could lead to grimy windows and hypothermia – often resulting in work delays and profit loss, regardless if you are a professional window cleaner yourself or a commercial business owner operating with storefront displays all-year long.
Staying warm and dry should be your utmost priority, so start with a full body coverage from head to toe. Since most body heat is lost through our heads, an obligatory waterproof hat is a must. Likewise, use winter gloves which have all-in-one functionalities: water resistance, dexterity, warmth and grip. Neoprene gloves work best in winter window cleaning situations.
For body insulation, dress in layers instead of one bulky coat so you can adjust your wardrobe based on the weather forecast. Lastly, invest in anti-slip footwear to gain traction since walking on thin ice can cause slip hazards.
Weather
For streak-free winter windows, go for an overcast day where the sky is cloud-covered with less direct sunlight to prevent your cleaning solution from drying up before it can be wiped down. Also, reduce repetition and master efficiency by tracking the wind path and working in its same direction to avoid splashing water on pre-cleaned windows.
Equipment and Methodology
You have two options in the winter window cleaning trade: select the traditional route with a starter kit of windshield washer fluid, squeegee, washer, microfiber cloths and ladders; or choose modern with water fed pole systems.
When you pick the first option, you need to get the right mixture for your cleaning solution with one-part water and two-parts windshield washer fluid. Use lukewarm water, rather than burning hot, to avoid damaging the surface area of your windows. Take note, handle methanol – an anti-freeze additive – with precaution as this chemical can pose poisonous hazards. Go little on soap as this could dry up very easily in freezing temperatures, then dust off the semi-frozen layers from the window panes before applying the cleaning solution.
Once you have your liquid solution in place, you can either transfer it into a spray bottle and buckle it on your tool belt, or dip the strip washer directly from the bucket then wash the window panes all around. Show off your craftsmanship and wipe using a squeegee in fanning method or S-technique, but make sure that you periodically check and change the rubber blade as worn-out edges will screech and leave streaks on the winter windows. Finish off your hand work with expert finesse by wiping with microfiber cloths.
Try a water-fed pole (WFP) system – a professional grade equipment which eliminates the use of slip-prone ladders and hydraulic access platforms through its 70-ft high reach. In three words, you can sum up its pros: safer, faster and higher. Bid adieu to the dangerous pitfalls of working at heights in short-range motion using squeegees and detergent solution. Safe from the ground up, you can now access long-range winter window cleaning utilizing only a chemical-free, highly purified water system.
Given all these professional tips, the right season for window cleaning is a myth. From vibrant spring to white winter, bank on our seasoned expertise all-year round and get your windows squeaky clean when you schedule an appointment in our Manhattan showroom located at 135 East 57th St 18-106.
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