What Not to Do When Cleaning Your Windows

Cleaning and polishing your windows can transform your home’s appearance. Who doesn’t like seeing out through transparent glass? But there are things you should avoid while cleaning windows to get streak-free results without damage. Let us show you how not to clean your windows so they stay beautiful and clear for years.

Avoid using harsh chemicals

Avoid strong chemicals while cleaning windows. Chemical-laden cleaners may promise fast and effective results, but they can hurt. These chemicals can break glass and endanger your health.

Choose soft, natural cleaners instead of harsh ones. Vinegar and water may clean windows easily. Vinegar removes oil and shines without streaks.

Use a window cleaner designed for difficult stains or spots. These cleansers are harsh on filth yet gentle on glass.

Remember, less is more when cleaning windows. Too much cleanser or pressure when scrubbing might damage or fracture glass. Always use a soft touch and let the cleaner work without force.

Avoid strong chemicals when cleaning your windows to protect yourself and the environment and keep them lovely for years.

Don’t use abrasive materials

Avoid using abrasives to clean windows. While abrasive scrubbers or steel wool may help remove stubborn stains and filth, they can potentially damage them. Abrasive compounds can scratch glass, making windows look dull and worn.

Use softer instruments instead of abrasives. Gentle microfiber towels remove grime and fingerprints from glass surfaces well. Their design traps dust without scratching glass.

Squeegees with soft rubber edges are another alternative. This tool easily cleans large glass surfaces without harm. Streak-free outcomes are guaranteed.

When cleaning windows, avoid abrasive materials to preserve their look and longevity. You may clean windows without damaging them by using microfiber towels or soft-edged squeegees.

Use lint-free cloths

Window cleaning requires the correct instruments for a streak-free shine. Your arsenal should include a lint-free cloth. These cloths are meant to reduce lint and fibers on windows for a clear finish.

Lint-free cloths are comprised of tightly woven microfiber or cotton mixes. This innovative design traps dirt and debris without residue. Lint-free cloths are ideal for providing professional-looking results at home because they don’t leave fibers on freshly cleaned windows.

Simply dampen a lint-free cloth with water or a mild window cleaner and gently wash the glass in circles. These cloths are soft and smooth, so you can remove smudges, fingerprints, and other marks without disturbing the glass.

Lint-free clothes clean windows and have other household purposes. Mirrors, stainless steel appliances, computer screens, and delicate surfaces like eyeglasses and camera lenses can be cleaned with them.

Buying high-quality lint-free clothes will save you time and frustration by reducing the need to re-clean due to streaks. Use a lint-free cloth to clean those windows—your windows will thank you!

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions

Window cleaning requires following manufacturer recommendations. Following each window’s maintenance and cleaning instructions is crucial. This will help you clean windows effectively and extend their lives.

If you need help cleaning your windows, consult the manual or contact the manufacturer. They can share product-specific best practices and approaches.

Take manufacturer warnings seriously. Some chemicals or compounds can damage glass or frames, so take precautions.

Additionally, examine manufacturer-recommended tools and products. Incompatible materials may harm glass or cause streaks.

Follow recommendations for cleaning frequency. Over-cleaning can damage your windows, while under-cleaning can cause filth buildup that gets harder to remove.

Conclusion

Cleaning windows can be intimidating, but with the appropriate approach, it doesn’t have to be. Avoiding frequent mistakes and following a few basic steps will give your home or workplace dazzling clean windows that improve its appearance.

Windows should be cleaned without strong chemicals. Chemicals can harm glass and produce streaks. Instead, use gentle, effective window cleaners.

Avoid scouring pads and steel wool. These scrape and disfigure glass. Use soft cloths or sponges for safe, thorough cleaning.

Lint-free cloths are vital for clean windows. Lint-free materials prevent fibers from sticking to the glass and clean it better.

Use window cleaning products according to the manufacturer’s directions. Each product may have unique instructions to maximize outcomes without harm.

With these suggestions, you can clean windows efficiently and keep them clear.

Remember to use lint-free towels, avoid strong chemicals, avoid abrasives, and follow the manufacturer’s directions while cleaning windows!

These tips can provide you with clean vistas through sparkling windows in no time! Go ahead—let the sun into your place without dirt or pollution!

When feasible, use eco-friendly options to care for our environment and our spaces! Enjoy window washing!

Expert Window Cleaning vs. Maid Service

Looking to brighten your windows? Or maybe you need housework assistance? Professional window cleaning and maid service are commonly thought of for home cleanliness. Understanding which choice is best for you is crucial because both have pros and cons. We’ll compare professional window cleaning to maid service, highlighting the pros and cons.

What is expert window cleaning?

Dedicated to window cleaning, expert window cleaning provides complete cleaning and upkeep. These experts have the skills, equipment, and experience to remove difficult stains and filth. They clean your windows inside and out with high-quality chemicals that remove grime, dust, fingerprints, and other debris.

Professional window cleaners pay attention to detail. These experts clean every crevice, leaving your windows sparkling. Squeegees, scrapers, and extension poles let them reach higher or harder-to-reach regions.

Safer window washing is another benefit. Cleaning windows in multi-story buildings or huge residences with hard-to-reach windows is dangerous. Professionals have experience operating at heights and use safety gear, eliminating this risk.

Professional window cleaners also clean screens and wipe tracks. Clean glass, frames, and screens are guaranteed with this comprehensive method.

You may struggle to achieve the precision and competence of professional window cleaners. Professional window cleaners may be your best bet for cleaning windows without bother or risk!

What is maid service?

Maid service—what? It’s a professional cleaning service that helps with housework and cleanliness. Maid services dust, vacuum, mop, clean bathrooms and kitchens, make beds, and do laundry.

For busy people or those who dislike cleaning, hiring a maid service can be very convenient. Having someone else do the housekeeping lets you focus on other things or relax.

Maids are usually educated to efficiently clean various chores. They have the tools and supplies to clean your home thoroughly.

A benefit of maid services is flexibility. Your cleaning plan can be weekly, bi-weekly, or for special occasions when you want everything sparkling.

Hiring a maid service can also assist in keeping your home clean and organized. Your property looks its best when expert cleaners visit regularly to prevent filth buildup.

However, drawbacks must be considered. Professional maid services may be too expensive for some. Allowing strangers into your home requires trust that they will treat your items respectfully.

Whether you need a maid service depends on your lifestyle and finances. If extra help with domestic duties gives you peace of mind or frees up time for more fun activities, consider this simple service!

The advantages of expert window cleaning

  1. Impeccable Results:

    Expert window cleaning services provide flawless outcomes, a major benefit. They have the expertise to clean your windows streak-free. To obtain a flawless finish, they use specialized procedures, high-quality tools, and effective cleaning solutions.

    2. Time-Saving:

    If you have several windows or huge glass surfaces to clean, it can take time. Hiring specialists saves time that can be used for other vital duties. Professionals have the skills and tools to finish rapidly.

    3. Safety Measures:

    Cleaning windows, especially in high-rise buildings or hard-to-reach regions, can be dangerous for beginners. Professional window cleaners are trained in safety and have ladders, scaffolding, and harnesses as needed.

    4. Extended Window Lifespan:

    Regular professional window washing removes built-up grime, debris, and pollutants. This improves their look and prevents corrosive substances or mineral deposits from shortening their lifespan.

    5 . Enhanced Curb Appeal:

    Clean windows improve your home’s curb appeal inside and out! Sparkling clean windows let more light in and give your area a fresh look.

    Expert window cleaning services offer these specialized benefits that guarantee pristine results every time you look out at the world outside your home, unlike maid services that focus on general housekeeping (including some basic surface window wiping)!

The advantages of maid service

  1. Time-saving Convenience is a major benefit of hiring a housekeeping service. Finding time to clean your home can be difficult with hectic schedules and many commitments. With a maid service, you can let professionals clean while you focus on other important things.
  2. Professional Cleaning Standards: Maid services hire skilled cleaners who can remove various stains and filth. Their professional tools and cleaning chemicals offer a deep cleaning for your home.
  3. Customized Cleaning Plans: Maid services may offer customized cleaning plans to meet your demands. Maid services can help with carpet or upholstery cleaning or regular maintenance cleaning.
  4. Consistent Cleaning Schedule: Maid services will clean your home consistently. It’s no longer necessary to rush before guests arrive or fret about cleanliness.
  5. Peace of Mind: Professional cleaners will thoroughly clean and sterilize every part of your home, giving you peace of mind. No more missed spots or poor cleaning.

Hiring a maid service offers time-saving convenience, professional standards, tailored programs, a constant schedule, and peace of mind about home cleanliness.

The disadvantages of expert window cleaning

Consider the pros and downsides of professional window washing. Cost is a major drawback of professional window cleaning. Regular window cleaning by professionals can be expensive and not everyone can afford it.

Another drawback is that window cleaning appointments can be inconvenient. Coordination with their availability can be difficult if you have a hectic schedule.

Windows can also be damaged during cleaning. Professional cleaners are trained to handle delicate surfaces, but mistakes can cause costly damages or replacements.

Additionally, hiring window cleaners makes you dependent on them. Finding another trustworthy and competent service provider may take time if they go out of business.

Some prefer a hands-on approach to home maintenance. If you like doing your own housework, hiring window cleaners may feel like giving up control.

Professional window cleaning provides advantages in efficiency and skill, but these drawbacks should be considered before hiring them.

The disadvantages of maid service

  1. Lack of expertise: Maids may be good at general cleaning, but they may not be trained in window cleaning. If you hire a maid service to clean your windows, you may not get the same degree of detail as an expert.
  2. Lack of equipment and materials: Maid services usually bring their own cleaning products, but they may not have professional-grade squeegees or window cleaning solutions. As a result, your windows may only be cleaned, not shined.
  3. Time constraints: Maids often have numerous clients to serve in a day. They may not have time to clean every corner of your windows due to scheduling constraints.
  4. Potential harm: Without sufficient training and experience handling fragile surfaces like glass, maid service appointments can cause unintended damage. Windows with scratches or streaks may need costly repairs or replacements.
  5. Inconsistent quality: Skill, experience, and work ethic affect maid service quality. One maid visit may clean your windows well, while another may not.

Consider these drawbacks while choosing between maid service and professional window cleaners.

Which is better for you?

The choice between professional window cleaning and maid service depends on your needs and preferences.

Expert window cleaning may be best for high-rise apartments or large, hard-to-reach windows. Professional window cleaners have the expertise, abilities, and equipment to safely and beautifully clean your windows. They can also remove tough stains and streaks.

However, maid service may be better if you have a hectic lifestyle and require help with more than just window cleaning. You can hire a maid service to vacuum, dust, mop, wash laundry, and cook.

Professional window cleaners thoroughly clean your windows, but they may not give as much housekeeping as a maid service. Maid Services offers several customized services.

The choice between professional window cleaning and maid service depends on what you value most: clean windows or domestic help. Consider cost-effectiveness and convenience when choosing.

Conclusion

Professional window cleaning and maid service have pros and cons. Choosing the best option relies on your needs and tastes.

Expert window washing is best for shining, streak-free windows that improve the appearance of your house or office. Window cleaners use specialized equipment, experience, and procedures to clean windows thoroughly and long-lastingly.

If you want full cleaning that covers windows and other locations, maid service may be better. Maid services usually include dusting, vacuuming, mopping floors, organizing congested places, and doing laundry to keep your home or office clean.

Choose based on budget, frequency of cleanings, room size, and personal time. Assessing whether you need frequent maintenance or extensive cleaning may be helpful.

Professional window cleaning and maid service help you stay clean. Whatever you choose will make the place cleaner and more pleasurable for you and others.

Before choosing, examine the benefits and drawbacks!

3 Benefits of Clean Windows

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clean windows

 

Cleaning windows on your own is often more of a hassle than you bargained for, which is why you need professional window cleaning services. Cleaning windows correctly is a lot of hard work whether you are cleaning the windows of your home or business. Here are a few reasons you should invest in professional window cleaning services.

Enhance the Beauty of Your Windows

The beauty of your windows is important for the beauty of the rest of your residence or business. As a rule, windows should be cleaned at least twice each year. This rule keeps windows free of dust, mold, mildew, and other debris off the window. A window is truly beautiful when you can look through it from the inside and outside without shadows from dead bugs, smudges, and other unsightly marks. Sunlight is natural light that give rooms in your home a warm, natural glow.

Beautiful Residential and Commerical Windows

If you’re running a business, landing a client and closing a deal is one of the most difficult aspects of running a business. The windows of your business can be the difference between gaining a client or losing one. Aside from your work ethic, awards, and medals you may have won, clean windows are another indication you take pride in your business.

If you plan to sell your home, you want to make the best first impression possible. After you clean your home and the cut the lawn, make sure the windows of your home are clean. Clean windows are one of the most inviting features of a home, especially when you intend on selling it. You want to attract as many buyers as possible to your home, and possibly increase its value.

Increase Window Longevity

No one wants to waste money, and not investing in professional window cleaning services is one sure way to spend unnecessary money. Professional window cleaners get the job done correctly the first time, and help keep your windows looking brand new. Environmental contaminants destroy your windows. These contaminants include hard water, acid rain, and oxidation and they destroy your windows. If these issues are not corrected, you will spend a lot of money on replacement windows each year.

Increase your comfort level

Wherever you are, you deserve to be relaxed and comfortable, and having clean windows in your home or office will get the job done. Even though you have things to get done at work or have chores to do around the house, there’s nothing like feeling refreshed and relaxed while you’re completing necessary tasks. When you’re uptight and stressed, dirty windows will make you feel worse. The sight of streaks, smudges, dirt, dust, and fingerprints are all things that can put you in a bad mood. No need to be grumpy. We are here to help. We will make your windows sparkle and gleam with beauty.

Get Clean Windows Today!

A clean window is a happy window. Everyone who visits your home or business will rant and rave about how crystal-clear your windows are. Contact us today to get your sparkling diamond windows.

Best Window Cleaning Techniques and Methods

Best Window Cleaning Techniques and Methods

Summer is here, so it’s the perfect time to clean your windows to let the sunlight shine on. Window cleaning isn’t the most glamorous job, but the end results are always a pleasure to see. There’s something about perfectly clean windows that’s just incredibly satisfying. Especially when the windows are so clean, it looks like they aren’t even there! But getting those results aren’t always easy. If you’re using the wrong window cleaning techniques, chances are you’ll end up with some streaks.

Window Cleaning Tips: Before You Start

There are a few things to consider before start. Firstly, you don’t want to clean your windows on a hot, sunny day. While a sunny day might seem like the perfect “window cleaning weather”, it’s actually the opposite. Your window cleaning solution will dry far more quickly on a hot day. When water dries on your window, it’s almost sure to leave a mark.

Next, you need to consider the current state of your windows. You’ll need to choose the ideal window cleaning technique to use based on how dirty your windows are. If your windows are only a little dirty, there are plenty of quick and easy window cleaning methods that don’t require harsh chemicals.

The last to check before you start cleaning is dust. Dust not only accumulates on windows, also check the caulking, window sills and other areas. Also remember to look both inside and outside! If you find any dust, cleaning away the dust before you start to clean your windows can make your job a lot easier.

Assuming the weather is cool (perhaps even slightly cloudy) and your windows are dusty, the first thing you’ll need to do before you start cleaning is to vacuum clean. You could use a normal household or industrial vacuum cleaner for this, but a specialized window vac would make things a lot easier. Vacuum both the inside and outside of your windows before you proceed with cleaning them.

If you don’t want to vacuum clean your windows, you could remove dust by brushing or sweeping it off. Just be prepared, because (depending on how dirty your windows are) doing this could simply transfer all the dust, cobwebs and other debris from your windows onto the floor.

Cleaning Windows that Aren’t Too Dirty

If your windows aren’t too dirty, cleaning them can be relatively effortless. If your windows aren’t really dusty, but there are some fingerprints and perhaps even water stains you’d like to remove, there are a few ways you can go about cleaning them.

The simplest method is by using a microfiber cloth and some homemade window cleaner, vinegar or a window cleaning solution of your choice. Simply spray some of your cleaning solution onto the window and wipe it away with a dry microfiber cloth. Just make sure you use a good, high-quality cloth.

For cleaning windows, microfiber cloths with a tight, yet fine weave are best. Think about the kind of microfiber cloth you’d use to clean your glasses’ lenses or polish your car mirrors – that’s the kind of cloth that will get you the best results when cleaning windows too.

If you prefer a more old-fashioned approach, then a squeegee is a great option. Cleaning your windows with a squeegee will require more steps, but a lot of people still prefer it. If you struggle with any streaks after you use your squeegee, you can always still use a microfiber cloth to wipe up any dampness after using the squeegee.

Avoid using paper kitchen towels though. Paper towels will just leave lint deposits all over your window. If you don’t have any microfiber cloths, crumpled newspaper is a better choice than kitchen towels.

Crumpled newspaper polishes windows without leaving behind too much lint. Unfortunately, this can scratch your windows a bit and you’ll need a decent supply of old newspapers if you’re planning to clean a lot of windows. When a piece of newspaper gets soggy it will also start to shed a lot of lint and will no longer do a good job of polishing your windows.

Cleaning Normal Dirty Windows

Not everyone can clean windows very often. A lot of people only start noticing their windows once they’re already quite dirty. They might have a thin coating of dust on the outside, and some fingerprints and stains on the inside. Although your windows might not be ideally clean, they’re still far from making the place seem like an old, abandoned warehouse.

If your windows sound like the ones mentioned above, vacuuming (or brushing) them before you start to clean them will make your job a bit easier. Most windows gather dust on the outside before they start to look dirty on the inside, so focus on the outside panes while you dust.

Once you’re done dusting, you can decide whether you want to try a microfiber cloth or a squeegee to clean with. If you find that your microfiber cloth is collecting dirt and grime too quickly, it’s probably best to back up and opt for cleaning with a squeegee instead.

Alternatively, you could try to clean the outside areas of your windows by pressure cleaning them. Pressure cleaning isn’t something you can do yourself. You’d need to hire a professional power cleaning company to handle the job for you, but it could make the job a lot easier.

Cleaning Oily Windows

There are a lot of things that can dirty a window to the point of being plain filthy. Perhaps you have a window in a kitchen that’s close to an oven. Oil and food spatters can easily build up and if left for a while, the results can be nightmarish to clean.

Kitchens aren’t the only place where windows can be prone to oil spatters and stains though. Automobile workshops often suffer the same fate, as motor oil is often everywhere, including the windows.

The first thing to note about oil spills on windows is that microfiber cloths won’t be effective to clean them. It’s better use an abrasive sponge and a cleaning solution that can dissolve the oiliness. Vinegar could work in many cases, but if the windows are seriously oily dishwashing liquid or a professional window cleaning solution might work better.

Gently scrub away the dirt and grit with your abrasive sponge. After this, you can wipe or rinse away the residue and follow up this cleaning with a regular microfiber cloth a squeegee clean.

If you have residue buildup on the outside windows of your building, pressure washing can also be an option, although it’s not common for windows to get a lot of oil stains on the outside panes.

Cleaning Very Dirty Windows

At some point, you might be left with the task of cleaning windows that do, in fact, look like they belong in an old, abandoned warehouse. This is exactly the kind of window cleaning work everyone likes to avoid, but you simple can’t always escape it.

Windows that haven’t been cleaned in a long time can have mold, dust, grime and even paint stains. If you see any mold growing on your windows, it might be best to call in a window cleaning company to do the cleaning. Professionals will know how to follow the right safety measures to avoid inhaling mold spores, or possibly even spread them to new areas.

If you have paint stains on your window, you can either scratch it off using a sharp razor blade and your chosen window cleaning solution, or you could wipe it off by using turpentine or paint thinner. If you choose to wipe stains away by dissolving the paint, just be sure to keep old rags or paper kitchen towels ready. You’ll need to work fast to wipe away the solution of paint and turpentine before it dries on your windows.

Professional Window Cleaning Services in Miami

Sometimes cleaning windows yourself just isn’t worth the time and effort. After all, you don’t have the same equipment and level of experience as professionals do. Calling a professional window cleaning service is good if you want to save time, but there are instances where it can be absolutely necessary.

If your windows are high up, or if they are dirty enough to pose a health hazard, hiring a window cleaning company is definitely the best choice. Both these scenarios can pose risks that trained professionals will know how to deal with.

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The Effectiveness of Microfiber Cloths for Cleaning Windows

Like all regular cleaning materials, microfiber cloths are simple items. This is exactly why it might come as a surprise that there’s a lot more to microfiber cloths than meets the eye.

Microfiber has been around on the market since the 1970’s and since that time it’s developed and improved quite a bit. No longer are these microfiber cloths only good for cleaning your eye glasses or polishing the side view mirrors on your car. Microfiber is the modern way to clean almost anything!

One area of cleaning where microfiber is particularly useful, is for cleaning windows and glass. That’s because the properties of these cloths help you get the crisp, clear shine you expect to get from from a freshly cleaned window.

What Is Microfiber?

Microfiber is a term to refer to any fabric that has strands of less than one denier. Most microfiber materials are made from synthetic fabrics such as polyester and polyamides such as nylon and tragomide.

To give some perspective to the thinness of microfibers, a denier is a measurement unit to measure the mass density of fabric fibers. It’s a measurement system that works by measuring the mass of a fiber (in grams) per 9 kilometers (which is approximately 5.6 miles) of its stretched out yarn. Although the density of a specific fiber’s material will also play a role in the denier measurement – thinner fibers will tend to yield a result that’s a lot lighter than that of thicker strands.

Also, for a material to qualify as microfiber, its fibers should be thinner than 10 micrometers, meaning the individual fibers in a microfiber cloth are microscopically small.

When comparing the results of microfiber to that of other common fibers, it becomes especially apparent just how thin the cloth fibers are. For example, silk fibers – which are very thin – tend to be about one denier. As mentioned, microfiber is always less than that, meaning all microfiber is finer than silk. When compared to a human hair, microfibers are about 100 times thinner.

The super thin nature of microfiber strands is exactly what makes it a great material for cleaning cloths.

Cleaning Benefits of Microfiber

Microfiber is a useful material and is often used to manufacture all sorts of products, not only cleaning materials. However, the benefits on microfiber go hand in hand with effective cleaning.

The fact that microfiber strands are so thin is exactly what gives the material such good qualities for cleaning purposes. That’s because the ultra fine fibers have the ability to trap even the finest dust particles.

In fact, the fibers in microfiber cloths are so small, they can even trap bacteria and microscopic mold spores. While microfiber cloths aren’t as effective at cleaning away microscopic pathogens as a disinfectants are, microfiber cloths can significantly reduce bacteria in areas you clean – making it highly effective for everyday cleaning.

Microfiber also has a great capacity for attracting and trapping moisture between the tiny fibers – making microfiber cloths great for polishing anything, as they don’t leave any water lines behind after wiping.

Perhaps the only thing that microfiber cloths aren’t quite as good at cleaning is oil. Oil particles will get trapped between the super thin fibers and is nearly impossible to wash out again – causing the cloth to become permanently soiled in oil.

In summary, here are some of the main benefits of using microfiber cloths when compared to other cleaning materials:

  • No streaks are left behind after wiping
  • Even microscopic particles can be wiped off surfaces
  • Cloths attract moisture and can hold up to 8 times their weight in water
  • The tiny fibers are suitable for even the most delicate surfaces
  • Quality cloths are extremely durable and can last much longer than other common materials

All these factors combined make microfiber cloths the ideal thing for cleaning almost any surface.

Reduce the Need for Cleaning Chemicals

Because microfiber cloths have great properties for attracting and trapping dirt, the cloths are great to use without cleaning chemicals. A simple spray bottle of water and your cloth is all you need. Water can also be mixed with a mild cleaning agent like vinegar or some form of alcohol like ethanol – both of which are natural and safe for cleaning.

This means that using microfiber cloths can greatly reduce the amount of harmful chemicals necessary to clean an area. Reducing the need for using harmful cleaning chemicals is good for the environment, human health and saves a lot of money, seeing as strong chemical cleaning agents are often expensive.

This adds to the benefits of microfiber cloths, as they’re an environmentally friendly alternative to strong cleaning chemicals and are also highly economical in terms of cost and durability.

Why Normal Window Cleaning Methods are Ineffective

One of the traditional ways of cleaning windows is using a squeegee soaked with a combination of water and cleaning chemicals wipe the window clean and remove dirt. After that, comes the dreaded crumpled newspaper pieces, which are used to prevent of water stains and lines often left behind after cleaning with a squeegee.

There are multiple reasons why this method of cleaning windows isn’t very effective:

  • The water-soaked squeegee drips onto floor, leaving a mess behind
  • Using crumpled newspaper to prevent stains and watermarks off windows isn’t very gentle and can leave scratches on windows
  • Once the crumpled newspaper becomes soaked, small pieces of paper can start it peel off while polishing, causing a mess
  • Cleaning windows in two steps takes a lot longer than cleaning them in one easy and gentle step

Another popular way for cleaning windows, is using paper towels and a bottle of window cleaner. With this method, the window cleaner is sprayed onto the window and immediately wiped away with a paper towel. The benefit of this cleaning method is that it only involves one step, seeing as the paper towel won’t leave behind any marks on the window.

However, using this method to clean windows is still inefficient, as it takes a lot of paper towels and window cleaner to clean a relatively small area of window. This is not only costly, but harmful to the environment. Because this inefficiency, using the paper towel method simply isn’t an option when cleaning larger commercial buildings with a lot of windows.

As with newspaper pieces, paper towels can start to peel when they become too wet. Both paper towels and newspaper are prone to shed some of their particles while cleaning. Creating lines of dust-like lint particles on clean windows.

Cleaning Windows with Microfiber Cloths

Cleaning windows with a microfiber cloth is simple. Here’s how to use a microfiber cloth to get beautifully clean windows without any hassle:

  • Dampen your microfiber cloth with water
  • Fold the cloth in half, then fold this half again to create a square pad
  • Wipe the windows as you’d normally wipe a counter top or other surface area
  • Once the window is clean, flip the cloth over to its dry side to wipe away moisture on damp areas
  • If the microfiber cloth becomes dirty, simply refold it to get a fresh area of the cloth to clean with

That’s it! No need for strong cleaning chemicals or anything like that. As an alternative to dampening the cloth before you start cleaning your windows, you can also have a spray bottle with water on hand. With this method, you’ll spray water onto the window and wipe it away immediately using a dry microfiber cloth.

For dirtier windows, a mixture of water with a mild, natural cleaning agent. Vinegar, alcohol or dish washing liquid are great choices to mix with water and spray onto windows. Simply wipe the mixture away with your microfiber cloth the leave windows spotless.

For alcohol to mix with water, ethanol is a cost-effective and relatively easy to find option. However, if finding ethanol for cleaning poses a problem, you can even use vodka. The good thing about using alcohol to clean with, is that it’s a natural choice. When compared to using harsh synthetic chemicals, alcohol is good at disinfecting and cleaning. Alcohol can also dissolve fats, so it will dissolve a thin layer of fatty deposits that might be present on your window.

You can also use normal cleaning agents when cleaning with a microfiber cloth. So long as it doesn’t contain any wax or oily ingredients, which will damage your microfiber cloth.

Choosing a Microfiber Cloth for Window Cleaning

Using a microfiber cloth for cleaning should make things a lot easier. But to get the most out of microfiber cloths, you need to choose the right one for the job. For cleaning windows, it’s best to use an ultra fine, smooth cloth with a flat-weave to get great results.

Using a fine cloth will prevent any scratches on delicate glass surfaces and even electronics. It’s also important that any microfiber cloth you use has a dense weave. To check the quality of a microfiber cloth before buying it, simply hold it up to a light. If you see any light shining through the cloth, it’s not a good quality microfiber cloth. Keep looking until you find a cloth that passes the light test.

It’s great to know that microfiber is an alternative option for cleaning your windows spotlessly. However, if the thought of cleaning your windows yourself is enough to make you run for the hills, hiring professionals to do the job is a great alternative. At Miami Affordable Window Cleaning, we specialize in cleaning residential and commercial windows. From homes to high rise buildings, we do it all. Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.

How to Clean Glass Windows Without Streaks

How to Clean Glass Windows Without Streaks

The days are over of you spending hours cleaning windows only to see those dreaded streaks when you’re done! The thing about glass is that it shows every imperfection, no matter how small, which is why knowing how to clean windows properly will save you a lot of time and frustration. You can enjoy beautiful, clean, streak-free windows. So, if you’re wondering how to clean glass windows without streaks, be sure to read through.

Window Cleaning Equipment: What You’ll Need

Your window cleaning kit will depend on the size of your windows, how dirty they are, and the amount of time you have. A basic kit includes:

  • A bucket with warm water
  • Cleaning solution
  • A squeegee
  • A sponge
  • Lint-free cloths
  • Gloves.

Your cleaning solution of choice will depend on a lot of things. You could opt for a homemade, DIY window cleaner or a commercial, store-bought product.

Tips for Cleaning Glass Windows Without Leaving Streaks

Get Rid of Dirt First

Before you apply your cleaning solution onto the windows, remove any dirt and dust off the frame by using a brush or vacuum cleaner. Doing this will prevent dirt from mixing with the cleaner, avoiding a muddy mess.

Don’t Hold Back on the Cleaner

Be generous when applying your cleaning solution, even more so if your windows are exceptionally dirty. The cleaner helps to dissolve the dirt so it can be wiped off. If you don’t apply enough cleaner, you’ll have streaks to contend with. Additionally, if you’re going to be using commercial cleaners, opt for a more gel-like product that doesn’t run down the second it touches the surface. The less dripping there is, the easier the job.

Don’t Just Use Any Cloth

The fibers that regular cloths are made from generally aren’t good for cleaning windows. They’re notorious for leaving streaks, irrespective of whether you use branded sprays or homemade cleaning solutions. What you want to use instead is a reusable microfiber cloth to clean windows. Microfiber cloths are better because they are lint-free and their super absorbency means they do a brilliant job of giving you shiny windows without a single streak in sight. And since they’re reusable, they’re also an eco- and budget-friendly cleaning option. If you prefer paper towels, however, just make sure that they’re also lint-free.

Use Newspaper

An alternative to using microfiber cloths is newspaper to clean windows (or if you like, you could use both). It’s really easy and works well. All you have to do is take some newspaper, scrunch it up, and start wiping it dry until your windows are sparkling clean. Just be warned, however, that this method does require a bit of effort, but the results are definitely worth it.

Squeegees Are Super Useful

Squeegees can be a little tricky to master, but once you get the hang of it, you won’t want to use anything else.
Start by wetting the window with your cleaning solution. Next, take a damp, lint-free cloth to wipe the blade of the squeegee clean. Starting from the top, pull the squeegee horizontally across the window once. Wipe the blade before wiping the window again, making sure to overlap the first strip by an inch or two to avoid creating visible lines between each strip. Continue doing this until you get to the bottom of the window. Finish off by using lint-free cloths to wipe any remaining soap and to dry off the window for a spotless clean.

Repeat this on the outside of the window, but with vertical movements. If any marks are left behind, using this method will allow you to distinguish between window marks on the inside and out. If you have very large windows, clean them in small sections to avoid streaks forming as a result of the cleaning solution drying up before you can wipe it.

Window Vacuums Are a Thing

Ever heard of a window vacuum? If you haven’t, listen up. If you want to to clean glass windows without streaks, these provide another great way to ensure a good finish. After you’ve cleaned your window as usual, take your window vacuum and use it to suck up the excess water, cleaning liquid or dirt left on the window. They can also be used beforehand to remove dust, cob webs and other debris from your windows.

Clean with Vinegar

You don’t have to use chemical cleaning products to get your windows clean. You can make your own homemade cleaning solution that works just as well.

One popular homemade solution is a vinegar and water solution. All you need is half a cup of white or cider vinegar, two cups of water, and a quarter cup of rubbing alcohol with a concentration of 70%. An alternative is to mix two tablespoons of the vinegar with warm water in a small bucket. Mix these ingredients together, pour the solution into a spray bottle and you’re good to go. Put on some gloves and follow the soapy water method below. Simple, yet still effective.

The Soapy Water Method

This method is especially good if your windows have a lot of dirt that isn’t necessarily stubborn. Make a soapy water solution made up of one gallon of warm water and half a tablespoon of liquid dish soap. Using an abrasive sponge, wipe the soapy water onto the window without adding suds (avoid making the water too bubbly, as suds cause a lot of streaks). Rinse the window using clean water and use a squeegee to remove any excess soap before drying it off with lint-free cloths. It’s and easy, simple method and your windows will look great.

Clean with Lemons

Another simple, inexpensive method involves using a lemon. This is particularly for smaller windows as it’s a bit labor-intensive. Cut a lemon in half, remove the pips, and rub the lemon all over the window. Then take a lint-free cloth and wipe it clean.

Never Clean Your Windows on a Sunny Day

You want to clean your windows only on cloudy days. When the sun is out, the heat causes the window cleaner to dry quicker, before you can wipe it off, leaving behind some stubborn streaks. If you can’t wait for a cloudy day, start cleaning the windows on the shady side of your home first then work your way around.

So just to summarize, if your windows aren’t that dirty, simply use a dampened microfiber cloth to wet the window, then dry it off with a squeegee and dry lint-free cloths. For slightly dirtier windows, use the abrasive sponge and soapy water method. And if your windows are seriously dirty, then the vinegar solution will give you streak-free windows. Using the right method for your windows is an important part of learning how to clean glass windows without streaks.

Don’t Have the Time? Call a Window Cleaning Professional

If you simply don’t have time to clean your windows yourself, just hire professional window cleaners to do the job for you. One of the benefits of hiring professionals is that it’s the quickest, easiest way to get clean, streak-free windows without having to put in the work yourself.

You don’t have to spend your Saturday morning cleaning windows – but you still get to show off your beautiful home to your guests. Especially if you have large windows, calling in a professional makes more sense than doing the job yourself. Either you’ll need to strain dangerously on a ladder to reach your whole window, or you’ll only be able to clean the bottom half within your reach.

Enjoy Streak-free Windows

And there you have it! Now you know how to clean glass windows without streaks and annoying marks. Getting streak-free windows is not as complicated as you might have thought. It’s just about choosing the right cleaners and methods. The methods above work and they are effective, so you don’t have to keep putting your window cleaning off anymore. You too can get flawless, clear windows after the first time clean.

The Importance of Commercial Pressure Washing

Commercial pressure washing is beneficial for many different reasons. Your business should always put its best foot forward, and having your business pressure washed is one way to make sure your business always looks its best. Here are other reasons your business should invest in commercial pressure cleaning services.

Making the Best First Impression

Your business has one chance to make a great first impression. you can’t make the perfect first impression when your building and sidewalks are dirty, and your windows have greasy fingerprints on them. To make a good first impression, everything has to be in place. Not only do your services and staff have to be at their best, but the outside of your building must be flawless, and Window Cleaning Miami can help with that.

Start Saving Money

It’s a good feeling to save money, and you can do so by hiring professional commercial pressure washers. Without professional pressure washing expertise, you will face a variety of problems that can be expensive to fix. Some of these problems include developing cracks in the walls and sidewalks, having to replace windows quicker than usual, damaged gutters, and possible lawsuits due to people slipping and falling on your property. You can save money and avoid all of these mishaps by hiring experts who get the job done correctly the first time.

Health and Safety

Pressure washing removes debris, harmful bacteria, and toxins from surfaces. Mold, algae, and other fungi can safely be removed from the outside of your business building. Mold and mildew can cause respiratory issues and other health concerns. Algae leave hideous dark green and black marks on the roof your business building and could cause you to lose customers. The health and safety of your customers and business are important, and when you take both of these instances into consideration, your business will thrive.

Beautify Your Investment

Owning and running a business is expensive and time-consuming. A great way to beautify your business is to schedule regular pressure washing sessions. Scheduling these sessions prevent your building from experiencing extensive damage due to uncleanliness caused by excessive dirt and dust. We can protect your investment by preserving the exterior of your building by thoroughly cleaning it on a regular basis.

What’s the Difference Between Power and Pressure Washing?

Power washing and pressure washing are both methods you can use to clean a building. These cleaning methods can also be used to clean a home. Pressure washing is a cleaning method that is used to clean surfaces that have stubborn, ground-in stains, such as a driveway, sidewalk or roof. Pressure washing is great for these situations because the pressure of the cleaning solution can remove the stains. Power washing uses hot water to remove set-in stains and can often be used on fragile surfaces because a low pressure threshold of our cleaning solution is used.

At Window Cleaning Miami, we are licensed professionals who are ready to help you improve your business by offering our services, which include window cleaning and pressure cleaning. No job is too big or too small for our commercial pressure washing services. Contact us today for your free, no-obligation quote.

Different Types of Windows for Buildings

Different Types of Windows for Buildings

You hardly ever think about your windows, after all, they’re made so you can look through them. But just because windows are transparent doesn’t mean they aren’t important. Windows allow light and airflow into spaces. Depending on what kind of windows are used, they can also perform other functions. Some widows simply need to allow light in, while others have to be easy to open and close. Whatever it is you need from a window, there’s something on the market for you. Here are some of the different types of windows for buildings.

Different Types of Window Frames

Window frames play a big role in the aesthetics and use of your windows. While some are made to open easily, other frames simply let as much light through as possible.

Double-hung and Single-hung Windows

different types of windows: double hung windowsThis window frame design is the most popular type for houses. These frames usually has a large window pane in the center, with two smaller panes on either side. Or, a large pane on one side and a smaller pane on the other.

There are many variations in the layout of these frames, such as the center or side panes being split in two horizontal windows, or sometimes there can even be four panes equal in size.

Generally though, double- and single-hung window frames are made from either metal or wood. The designs are discreet, not drawing attention to the windows, but still aesthetically pleasing.

The windows open to the outside and are easy to adjust, but often not all panes can open and close. These windows open by simply by allowing the frame that contains the windows to rotate diagonally within the main window frame.

Awning Windows

Awning windows are another popular option in homes. The main difference between double-hung and awning windows is how they open. While double-hung windows rotate within the main frame, awning windows open to the outside by pivoting from the top or side of the main frame.

The great thing about awning windows is that they allow for a lot of airflow when they open. However, if there’s a walkway outside, they tend to obstruct the passage more than a double-hung window would.

Slider Windows

Slider windows are a great option if you’re looking for airflow, but don’t want to obstruct narrow passages outside. As the name implies, these windows simply slide over each other when opened.

Picture Windows

Different types of windows: Picture windowsThese windows are popular in commercial buildings and homes with modern architecture. Unlike most options, picture windows can’t open. Having picture window frames is almost like have no frames at all. Instead, window the windows panes in picture windows look like a glass wall.

The benefit of picture windows is that they allow a lot of light in and can offer stunning views. However, the fact that they don’t open and close means they’re not good for spaces where having airflow is important.

In some cases, picture windows can be combined with other kind of frames to allow for airflow in a space.

There’s an almost endless variety of window frames. Box frames windows, fixed windows and Palladian windows are just a few of the additional options to choose from.

Different Types of Window Panes

While most homeowners focus a lot on their window frames, the glass that goes into these frames is often overlooked. The quality of your window glass can help increase the longevity of your windows. Glass can also be made with useful extra functionalities.

There are different types f windows for buildings that help perform important and practical functions. Here are some of your main options when choosing window glass.

Annealed Glass Windows

Annealed glass is the most basic type of window glass available. This glass is colorless and inexpensive to buy. To make annealed glass requires that large window panes are cooled slowly, allowing a strong glass to form.

All other kinds of windows are made by enhancing annealed glass for better functionality. While annealed glass is the cheapest option, it will shatter when it breaks, leaving sharp edges.

Laminated Glass Windows

During the process of lamination, a regular float glass window is enhanced into a safety glass. Laminated glass windows provide extra strength, making them a more popular for safety reasons.

The glass in manufactured by taking two regular glass panels and fusing them to an inner layer of a strong plastic material called PVB (polyvinyl butyral).

Laminated windows can stay in their frames even when they’re almost completely shattered. Because of this, car manufacturers use laminated glass to make windshields. This type of glass is normally substantially stronger and more durable.

Obscure Glass

This kind of window is highly popular for fitment in bathrooms and as shower doors. Most obscure glass windows have textured inside surfaces, causing the window to not be completely see-through. Alternatively, some obscure glass windows are coated with a layer that makes the glass look sandblasted.

The great thing about obscure glass is that it protects privacy while still allowing light to come through.

Tinted Glass Windows

Tinted windows are an excellent choice if you want to limit the UV exposure in your space and enjoy more privacy. Just keep in mind that not all tinted windows offer UV protection, so if that’s a functionality you want, you must opt for a tinted glass that offers UV protection.

Tinted glass can be a good option in bathrooms instead of obscure glass. It’s also a popular choice for skylights. That said, you can have all the windows on your building fitted with tinted glass. It adds aesthetics while blocking only a minimal amount of light from coming in. Because tinted glass does block at least some light, it’s not an ideal option for dark spaces that don’t get a lot of sunlight.

Insulated Glass Windows

Insulated glass can help you control temperatures in your space more easily. The main benefit of insulated glass is that it creates an energy efficient space, as you’ll need less air-conditioning. To make insulated glass, multiple glass panels are layered together with spaces in between. The spaces in between the glass are normally filled with argon, providing better insulation.

There are still a few other window glass options, such as Low-E glass, which is also great for regulating temperatures inside your home, allowing you to save on energy costs.

Different types of windows are good for various purposes. Overall, both the window frame and glass you use in your frame depend on the functionality you need. Consider your space and needs before choosing your windows.

Keeping Your Windows Clean

A lot can go into creating a space with the perfect windows. Once you’ve fitted your ideal windows, it’s important to keep them clean. Despite this, you probably don’t have time to clean your windows often.

At Window Cleaning Miami, we specialize in helping you keep your windows clean throughout the year.

Windows cleaning benefits aren’t just about making your place look good. Keeping your windows clean can also enhance their longevity and prevent surface scratches.

After investing time to learn about different types of windows and choosing the perfect styles, it’s important to protect your investment by keeping them clean.

Call Window Cleaning Miami today to schedule a date for your windows today. We do more than just cleaning windows, we also clean other exterior areas of your house like sidings, fencing and driveways.

Benefits of window cleaning

Benefits of Window Cleaning: Are Clean Windows Important?

Windows play an essential part in your residential or commercial property. With time, water spots, smudges, fingerprints, dust, paint, bird droppings, spider webs, pollen, and other debris accumulate on windows, making them look dull and filthy. Cleaning removes these impurities and makes your home or building look more appealing. But besides making your space look more beautiful, window cleaning offers other benefits. These are just some of the benefits of window cleaning.

Benefits of Window Cleaning

A Great First Impression

Whether you’ll be entertaining guests or pitching new clients, making a good first impression matters. One of the first things that people notice is your windows, which is why you can’t afford to neglect them. As a business, the appearance of your building tells clients how professional you are. Dirty windows create a negative impression – after all, if you don’t have the discipline to keep your work space clean, it might be an indication of the quality of your service.

Prevent Window Damage

A clean window is less likely to get damaged compared to a dirty one. Some contaminates can make glass weaker. Harmful contaminants could include acid rain or hard water. The longer these contaminants remain on your windows, the more damage they’ll cause.

Preventing window damage is a great benefit of window cleaning. But don’t just focus on the glass while cleaning, make sure you keep hinges clean from grime and ensure that sliding tracks are debris-free.

Let More Light In

Clean windows allow for natural light to shine into your home or office more efficiently and make your spaces seem more spacious. More light can enter and brighten up your spaces, making them feel lively and inviting. This helps to uplift your mood, which can improve productivity in workplace environments.

Sell Your Property Sooner

If you’re trying to sell your home or business premises, cleanliness important. Keeping your property clean is a simple, cost effective way to make it look better. Clean windows will help impress potential buyers. Cleaner windows make your property look good and help to boost curb appeal.

Improve Air Quality

Things like cooking, smoking, burning candles and using your fireplace can contaminate the air inside your home. This air pollution can cause buildup on the inside of your windows, forming a layer of smoke film or dirt on the inside. Keeping your windows clean will ensure this buildup doesn’t occur, ensuring the air in your home remains fresh. Clean windows will also prevent mold growth.

Timing Matters in Window Cleaning

When cleaning your windows, there are certain times that are more suitable than others. The ideal cleaning weather is a cloudy day rather than a sunny one. Hot weather and sunshine causes liquid to evaporate more quickly from the window surfaces, leaving streaks more easily.

Benefits of Professional Window Cleaning

Windows might seem like one of those home projects you can do over a weekend, but sometimes it’s better to leave the work to the professionals. This is especially true for commercial buildings and hard-to-reach windows in the home.

Window cleaning might seem simple, but it’s not quite as easy as you might think. Here’s why professional window cleaning services will serve you better than doing it yourself.

Clean Hard-to-remove Dirt

Some dirt, like calcium leaking out of concrete walls and stains your windows, can cause stains that are hard to remove. Professional cleaners are well-equipped to clean even the toughest window stains, including paint specks, oil splatters and other tough dirt.

Save on Costs

Although it might seem like washing your windows yourself is the most cost-effective method, it isn’t always the case. Using professionals means you don’t have to spend money on buying your own equipment.

Hiring professionals also means that you don’t have to worry about damaging your windows. If you damage your windows while cleaning them, you’ll need to pay the cost of replacement. However, even if professional contractors were to damage your windows, they should have insurance to payout for your damages.

Safety Benefits

It’s possible to wash easy-to-reach windows at home. But if your building is more than one level, attempting to clean them yourself isn’t safe. Rather have someone who’s experienced do the job for you, especially for commercial buildings.

Better Results

Professional window cleaners know how to avoid streaks and spots. Get a professional for a spotless finish results every time.

Apart from saving money and getting professional results, hiring a professional window cleaning service can also help you save time. There’s nothing worse than sacrificing a weekend to clean your windows, only to spot streaks once you’re done.

Tinting Your Windows

Window tints are thin, clear, plastic films that are applied on the inside of windows. Besides aesthetic value, window tints can offer many benefits. However, before installing the film, your windows must be thoroughly cleaned to ensure better installation. Window tinting has advantages for both residential and commercial spaces.

Affordable

Window tints are an affordable alternative that costs a fraction of what it costs to replace a damaged or deteriorating window.

Safety

Window tinting can make your windows more durable in case of window breakage. Should your window shatter due to an accident, the window film will hold the glass pieces together, preventing injury and increasing security.

Adds Aesthetic Value

Window films are aesthetically pleasing and can make your commercial building look clean and professional, which creates a positive image for your business.

Blocks UV Rays

99% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays can be blocked out by window film, preventing it from entering your home or business’ interior, which protects your eyes and skin from sun damage. This also protects your valuables like furniture, curtaining and paintings from discoloration and fading caused by UV rays.

Reduce Energy Usage Costs

Tinted windows help rooms stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

During summer, window tints block out UV rays, resulting in a reduced amount of heat that passes into your home or office. This means there’s less heat gain, thereby reducing the need to use the air conditioner for lengthy periods.

On the other hand, during winter, window tints retain the interior heat, meaning you’ll have reduced heating costs.

How Often Should You Clean Your Windows?

To get the full benefits of window cleaning, you need to schedule regular cleaning throughout the year. Once a year isn’t enough for most properties. For your home, washing windows twice a year is good, while commercial buildings can clean on a quarterly basis.

Cleaning requirements will also vary depending on your property. High-rise windows might not need to be cleaned as often ground floor ones, as lower windows are exposed to more dust and debris.

Window Cleaning Costs

With all the great benefits of window cleaning, spending a few dollars now and again to protect your windows should be no big deal. The cost of window cleaning can depend on a lot of things, including the current state of your windows.

Commercial Window Cleaning Costs

  • According to kompareit.com, the average cost per window is $5.50-$14.50, with most companies charging around $10 per window.
  • Those that charge per pane charge an average cost of $2-$8. However, smaller panes can cost as little as $1-$2 per pane.
  • Buildings with one to two stories come with a price tag of $3-$6 per pane when washing the outside only. Washing the inside will cost between $4 and $8.
  • Hourly costs range between $36 and $58.
  • Additional window cleaning costs include paint or stain removal ($3.50-$6 for standard-sized windows), sills and tracks cleaning ($0.50-$5), screen cleaning ($0.50-$5 per screen), single glass door cleaning ($2.50-$8 per door), mineral deposit removals ($20 per pane), and 3rd and 4th story cleaning ($3-$5 extra per window).

Residential Window Cleaning Costs

  • According to homeadvisor.com, window cleaning usually costs between $149 and $293.
  • The cost per window pane ranges between $4 and $11, with $5 being the average.
  • To clean both outside and inside costs, on average, $5 per window.
  • Additional charges like paint or stain removal cost about $3.50-$6 per window and cleaning mineral deposits costs about $20 per pane.

Conclusion

Now that you know some of the main benefits of window cleaning, you can make sure to keep this important maintenance task on your to-do list.

At the end of the day, windows are an investment. If you put in enough effort, you’ll get to enjoy the maximum benefits from your windows.

How to pressure clean your driveway

How to Pressure Clean Your Driveway: Methods and Tips

Pressure cleaning is great for removing tough dirt in an instant. Without pressure washing, you’d have to resort to scrubbing off dirt manually, a tedious task. When it comes to pressure cleaning your driveway, you can decide whether you’ll opt for pressure cleaning or scrubbing, but pressure cleaning is much easier. Whether you’re looking to clean your residential driveway, or a paved industrial driveway, the methods will be similar. Here how you can pressure clean your driveway before winter comes around again.

Why Do Driveways Get So Dirty?

Driveways can buildup dirt quite quickly. The pace at which your driveway accumulates dirt will depend on a lot of things. One of the most notable causes of dirt on driveways is oil and grease stains from cars. If you have any cars leaking oil onto your driveway there’s no doubt it will dirty quickly.

Other things that can influence how fast your driveway gathers dirt is traffic, as well as the location. A driveway with more cars that come and go will look filthy in no time. The less paved area you have surrounding your driveway, the faster it will appear grimy. This is because mud and dust can also contribute to soiling your driveway.

To keep your driveway clean for longer after pressure washing it, try to prevent oil stains from cars. Also try to sweep your driveway regularly with an industrial grade broom to avoid buildup from dust and other debris.

Unfortunately, you can’t prevent or control all driveway stains. A lot of cars leak water from the air-conditioner. The water leaked from car aircons can mix with dust on the driveway surface, causing visible stains. At residential properties, you can service your car regularly to minimize water leaking from your aircon, but this isn’t something that can be controlled on a commercial property.

Car tires can also deposit all manner of dirt on the driveway. From old pieces or gum to mud and sludge, tires pick up a lot of dirt while driving around town and a lot of it can end up on your driveway.

Different Ways to Pressure Clean Your Driveway

There are different ways you can go about pressure cleaning your driveway. Your main options are as follows:

  • Hire a pressure washing machine and do it yourself
  • Book a professional cleaning from a pressure washing service in your area

Hiring a power cleaning machine and doing the work yourself is often cheaper, but it’s not always an option. Power cleaning can be dangerous work. Unless you have experience handling dangerous tools and equipment, you shouldn’t consider pressure cleaning your own driveway.

If you do have experience working with dangerous equipment, you’ll be more prepared to pressure wash your driveway yourself. However, a qualified professional service will most probably offer better results.

While pressure washing your own driveway can seem cheaper, it might work out more expensive if you hire the wrong equipment.

How to Pressure Clean Your Driveway Yourself

There are a lot of things you’ll need to prepare before you can pressure clean your driveway. Make sure you’ve bought all the necessary items you need before you start pressure cleaning.

Choosing Your Equipment

Before going out to hire cleaning equipment, first decide whether you’d like to power wash or pressure clean.

The benefit of power washing is that the hot water usually kills any weeds you have growing on your driveway. The disadvantage of power washing is that it’s much more dangerous. Not only do you have the risk of injuring yourself with a high-intensity water beam, you also run the risk of burning yourself. Because of this, you shouldn’t attempt to power clean your driveway if you’ve never operated pressure washing equipment. Opt for pressure washing instead.

Apart from choosing between power cleaning or pressure washing, you’ll also need to pick a machine that’s right for the job. Different pressure washers have varying beam intensities. For a concrete driveway, you’ll typically need a heavy-duty machine. If this is your first time pressure washing anything, rather stay on the safe side and opt for a medium to light duty machine.

Lastly, you should make sure that you hire a machine with all the necessary attachments. Be sure to mention that you want to pressure clean your driveway, so that the assistants from the equipment hire shop can help you with the correct pressure washer nozzles.

Pressure Washing Your Driveway: Step-by-Step

Before you can start pressure washing, you need to make sure you have everything you need. You’ll need your pressure washing equipment. Carefully read the instruction manual on how to pressure set up your pressure cleaner before starting.

Make sure you have everything you need on hand, such as a connection to a hose pipe and pressure washer detergent before you start.

Cover Nearby Walls and Plants with Protective Plastic

You’ll need t buy some protective plastic covers to protect nearby walls, plants and objects from damage. Doing so prevents accidental damage to paint and surfaces while pressure washing. Remember, the high-intensity beams from pressure washing machines can literally chip pieces of paint off, or damage plants.

Sweep Your Driveway

Once your equipment is set up, use an industrial broom to sweep your driveway. Get rid on all the dust and debris. Sweeping before pressure washing will make the task of pressure washing so much easier and avoid a muddy mess.

Pretreat Grease Stains

Use a spray degreaser to treat stains. You can spray the degreaser the whole surface of your driveway, but focus on grease stains. After applying degreaser to stains, you can scrub in into stains using a wire brush.

Applying Pressure Washer Detergent

Before you can start pressure cleaning, make sure you’re wearing industrial strength protective gloves. Pressure washing detergent can be quite strong, so you’ll need to protect your skin.

Next, use the relevant pressure washer nozzle to dispense the detergent from the cleaner onto the surface of your driveway in strokes. For the best results, apply overlapping strokes.

Once you’re done, you can allow the detergent to work for a while before proceeding. Try to let it stay on for 5-10 minutes.

Pressure Clean with Water

Change your pressure washing nozzle and apply one meant for spraying water. Thoroughly pressure clean the entire surface of your driveway. You can hold the tip of the pressure washer approximately 8 inches from the concrete surface for general cleaning. For stains, you can move in a bit closer, to about 4 inches.

It’s fine to overlap between strokes while pressure washing your driveway with water. You can also go over stained areas multiple times to lighten them.

Sealing Your Driveway

Sealing your driveway can help keep it looking clean and fresh for much longer. Be sure to use a sealant after washing. Most hardware stores will stock a product you can use. Simply take your sealant and use a paint roller to apply it over your driveway surface. Doing so will prevent car grease and spills from readily soaking in.

Cleaning Paint Stains on Driveways

Paint on driveways is a common problem, but it can make your driveway unsightly. It’s best to prevent paint stains on your driveway by using protective covers on your driveway when you’re painting close by. Getting paint off a driveway can be time-consuming, it’s a nuisance that’s better to prevent to begin with.

Of course, if you already have paint stains on your driveway, you’ll still want to know how to remove them. Pressure washing can be effective at removing some driveway stains. If pressure washing doesn’t work, power cleaning might be more effective. The main difference is that power cleaning uses both heat and pressure, whereas pressure washing is done with unheated water.

Pressure washing can be especially effective at removing paint stains on your driveway if they are relatively new. Generally, it takes about two weeks for paint stains to cure properly. This means you have a time window where cleaning the stain from your driveway can be considerably easier.

However, there are times with pressure washing won’t remove paint stains on your driveway. In cases where pressure washing is ineffective at removing paint stains, consider using a chemical paint stripper. Knowing what kind of paint stain caused the stain on your driveway could help you choose the best chemical paint stripper for your needs. Latex, oil and water-based paints will respond to different chemical strippers.

Hiring Professional Pressure Washing Services

While you can pressure your driveway yourself, it’s not an easy task. After buying or hiring all the equipment you need, you’ll likely find you’re saving very little money while putting in a lot of extra effort.

The best and easiest way to pressure clean your driveway remains hiring a professional pressure washing service. Professionals have years of experience. They’re equipped with all the necessary tools and skill to help your driveway look like new after cleaning it.