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Window Cleaning Requires the Right Tools

May 13, 2016 By Squeeky Clean Window Washing

Window  cleaning might  seem  like a  simple  and  straightforward job,  but  as  anyone who has tried it knows, it can be easier said than done. Properly cleaning your windows requires care, precision and the correct equipment and materials.

Poor Cleaning technque

Poor Cleaning technque

Window cleaning is something anyone can do, but far fewer can actually do it and be happy with the results when the sun pours through the window. While nearly every habitable structure in modern Western society has windows of some shape or size, only the people responsible for cleaning them have the best tools and materials for the job. As a result, many window cleaning jobs leave streaks, smudges or even the dirt that was supposed to be wiped away, behind.

So for all of the non‐professional cleaners out there, what are the proper tools to effectively clean windows? There isn’t a straightforward answer to this because different types of stains  can require different equipment and care, but there are some basic tools and tricks of the trade that are always effective.

Razor scratched glassNever use razor blades to scrape off dirt from glass in a window or door manufactured in the last 5 – 10 years. The reason is newer glass often has a defect called “Fabricating debris”. Glass dust created during the manufacturing process can land on the pane and become fused to the surface when heated during the tempering process. When a well meaning but poorly trained window cleaner scrapes the surface of the window or door these particles are broken loose from the surface and snowplowed across the surface of the glass. It doesn’t matter how “experienced” they are. It doesn’t matter that they used a new blade. They can’t hear or feel  that they’re damaging the window. The glass particles that have been broken off and pushed across the surface will leave hundreds of scratches like a satin ribbon in the direction the window cleaner pushed the razor when they attempted to clean the window. This will be painfully clear whenever  the sun shines through the damaged glass.

 

 

Scratched glass

Scratched glass

Windex and paper towels, even though heavily advertised, are a terrible combination. The ammonia flash dries before you’ve finished wiping across the window pane leaving a comet tail of lint from the paper towel. Unless you smoke there’s no need to use any ammonia based cleaners on your windows and doors. Brands like Spray‐Way or Perfect glass are alcohol based and have a much longer open time,(think finger painting before the paint sets), that makes it easy to wash the glass and then dry. Newspaper,(good) or Micro‐fiber towels,(better), are best because they won’t leave lint on the surface (we’re going for perfection here). Microfiber materials are so soft and fine that they can effectively clean glass and cover the entire affected without streaking or dragging. It also holds water well and distributes it evenly over a surface to clean evenly as it is used.

Good glass cleaning solutions

Good glass cleaning solutions

Start with two towels one the wash towel and the other the drying towel. Wash the edge of the window then fill in the square. Follow the same path when drying. If you use Micro fiber towels be sure to wash and dry them separately so they don’t pick up lint from the other items in the dryer and they’ll be ready for the next time you need them.

The best method for drying any type of window is the use of a squeegee, which is a handled tool with a flat, rubber edge that glides along the surface of glass and can remove water uniformly without leaving streaks or harming the surface. The squeegee is used by nearly every window cleaning professional and is largely considered to be a staple of the industry. There’s a knack to using these and professional will usually have spent many hours perfecting their technique.

While these tools and materials are effective for the actual cleansing itself, perhaps the most important aspect of the entire process is how you approach the window in question. Step ladder are perfect to reach the windows over the sink. Important note: never stand on the thin strip of counter top in front of the sink. This section is usually not supported and can crack if you try to stand there in an attempt to reach the window.

Window cleaning, when done right, can be an effective and simple process. Knowing how to approach it and what equipment to use is necessary to make sure how it is done right. Better yet, skip a few weeks of Starbucks and hire a professional. Chances are you’ll be amazed at the difference clean windows have on how you see your environment.

About Us: Squeeky Clean Window Washing was started in January 2012, servicing residential and commercial clients in the Washington metropolitan area. We’ve earned A ratings on Yelp, Home Advisor, Google Places and Angie’s List. In addition we received the Angie’s List Super Service Award for 2012. We feel that part of our success is due to our approach to cleaning your windows, siding and gutters. We strive to use the latest technologies in window cleaning to allow us, in an ecological and economical way, to bring the highest quality results to our customers while maintaining the safety of our employees. We have many local references that we can supply at your request.

Filed Under: Tips & Tricks, Window Cleaning Tagged With: Tips, Tricks, Window Cleaning

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Wendy Houston
Wendy Houston
14:21 21 Jun 17
The workers from Squeeky Clean did a great job on my house. In addition to thoroughly cleaning my windows, they cleaned off the mold and residue from pine trees from the siding of my house. Alan walked around my house and explained the entire process to me in advance, including where the debris came from and why it was concentrated in certain areas. Everyone was extremely polite and professional, and my house and windows look great! I prefer the service over high pressure cleaners I've used in the past. I highly recommend Squeeky Clean.
Beth DuBoff
Beth DuBoff
09:54 14 Jul 17
We could not be more pleased with Squeaky Clean. The windows sparkle like never before. Alan was extremely accommodating of our unexpected changes in scheduling as we prepared our home for sale. They went above and beyond to have the end result be perfect.
Rebekah Sims
Rebekah Sims
17:42 28 Jun 17
This is the second time I have used Squeeky Clean Window Washing for indoor & outdoor window-cleaning. They are thorough, neat, pleasant to have around, and the windows look great! And the second time went even faster than the first, the results being just as great! I highly recommend them.
Darlene Haught
Darlene Haught
19:01 02 Jul 17
Very punctual and fully prepared to give quality full service in washing all the windows in my 3-story townhouse and powerwashing my siding. When they were finished things were put back in order. It was my second time using them; they were great in the past, they were great with this job, and I'm sure they'll be great when I call them again in the future!
Elias Martinez
Elias Martinez
15:11 26 Jul 17
The team did a great job. Very fast and professional. Definitely will be recommending them to my other clients.-Madeline Jave
Catherine Butz
Catherine Butz
17:51 18 Apr 18
We were thoroughly satisfied with the service and results from Squeeky Clean Window Washing. Alan and his crew are professional and efficient. Our windows look fantastic and we look forward to working with them again.
Rita Jankovich
Rita Jankovich
18:23 11 Oct 18
I can't say enough about the AMAZING job that Alan and his team did to make our house ready to sell. The washing of the siding, cleaning the gutters, specially washing the roof and even the porch and flagstones on the walk outside. I have not even begun to talk about the windows! Inside, outside, screens, window sills are stunning! The view through the windows is totally different. The best part of the experienc is how much Alan cared about the quality of the service. I saw Alan walk around at the end several times just to make sure that everything was taken care of. I HIGHLY recommend Alan and Squeeky Clean Windows.
Kathleen McCue
Kathleen McCue
13:41 31 Oct 18
A great job! Easy to schedule and paid attention to detail. Would definitely highly recommend to anyone needing their services.
Melissa Westly
Melissa Westly
16:46 30 Nov 18
This is our second time scheduling with Alan to wash our windows. They do a FANTASTIC job and have been the best company/service we have hired to date for window and also exterior house washing. They did an exceptional job as well on the exterior of our home. They have cleaning windows down to a science literally. I would recommend scheduling with them!
Jana Muchyova
Jana Muchyova
14:04 21 Dec 18
They are quick, thorough, communicative and reliable. I have been a loyal customer for past few years and have been invariably happy with their service.
Matt Schreiber
Matt Schreiber
19:47 08 Jan 19
Alan is a great guy. Did such a great job with all of the windows in my house. Professional company, nice to work with.
Stefanie Bzdusek
Stefanie Bzdusek
12:39 15 Jan 19
Just had my windows cleaned last week. Thorough, professional and competitively priced. The 3-man team wore booties while inside and left the house and premises clean. Windows look amazing! We will definitely use them again.
Lindsey Witchie
Lindsey Witchie
20:43 08 Mar 19
I called on Monday to try an get an apt. to have my windows cleaned before the end of March, it took three calls and five days to get a call back only to learn they are to busy to do it. Something they could have told me on Monday. Now I have lost a week to get my windows done before end of march. Don't bother calling if you need work done right away.
Frank Kall
Frank Kall
17:03 31 Mar 19
Second time with Squeeky Clean. Just a really professional job. The windows look awesome. Alan and the crew are very careful, courteous and leave the house in a spotless condition. Will use his service next year and years to come
Rebecca Schulte
Rebecca Schulte
17:59 10 Apr 19
I've been using Sqeeky Clean for many years now and they do great work at a reasonable price. I would definitely recommend them.
Demetri G
Demetri G
11:24 18 May 19
We have used Squeeky Clean for almost three years. Alan and his team are fantastic! Always a 5-star experience! Thank you!!!
Stephanie Kushner
Stephanie Kushner
11:31 06 Jun 19
Squeeky Clean does an amazing job. I use them every year to clean windows and stone work. They are professional and timely. Windows are spotless. Highly recommend.
Robert Marsteller
Robert Marsteller
12:16 08 Jun 19
The owner of this company, Alan, was extraordinarily attentive to all of our questions and needs. His team was very polite and their window cleaning work was beyond exceptional. During the process, I learned that the company also provides stone cleaning services which I had heretofore had avoided having because high powered pressure washing that other companies use can be so damaging to mortar between the stones. Squeaky clean windows has a very different process which is quicker , less expensive, and to my eye does not damage the stone , the mortar, or neighboring vegetation at all. 5 Stars!
Helen Sonenshine
Helen Sonenshine
13:29 11 Jun 19
They did an excellent job. The windows now sparkle.
Patrick Rehfield
Patrick Rehfield
01:29 04 Jul 19
Best money I have spent in a long time! I was about to pay 10k+ to paint the trim of my house and decided to try Squeeky Clean out before I painted. The house looks brand new and I saved 9k+ thousand dollars. Truly professional, honest and top notch service. Highly recommend anyone considering painting their house to call Alan first! There are not many companies where the owner shows up to work the job. Alan even removed my screens (which was not in the quote) to provide a better wash. I will definitely be referring Alan to all my friends!
Holly Kimmitt
Holly Kimmitt
13:30 12 Jul 19
I am thrilled with my "squeeky clean" windows. Alan's innovative system is far superior to the old methods. He even cleaned my tricky lanterns and power washed my pool deck. Because he is able to clean high windows quicker, the cost is more affordable. My windows have never looked better. He is prompt and professional.
Mary Silverman
Mary Silverman
16:02 16 Aug 19
Alan and his crew were very professional. My inquiry phone call was returned promptly, I received an estimate immediately, and they showed up when Alan said they would. My windows look amazing, and I will definitely use them again.
kevin baylor
kevin baylor
15:45 24 Aug 19
These guys are great and most importantly they arrived on time. The windows looked great.
Andrea Dunsmore
Andrea Dunsmore
21:46 31 Aug 19
This is my 2nd time using Squeeky Clean. Alan and his guys do an amazing job! Plus Alan is a pleasure to work with. He takes the time to explain the process, answer any questions and makes sure you are completely satisfied with the work. He seems to really enjoy what he does and it shows. Thank you Squeeky Clean for giving me a shiny happy house!!
Stephanie Lai
Stephanie Lai
15:39 27 Sep 19
Professional and quality work. Very easy to work with. Our windows have never looked better.
Ryan Clemens
Ryan Clemens
15:23 05 Oct 19
I searched for a window cleaning company and found Squeeky Clean. So glad I did. I filled out the online form and not long after Allen contacted me by phone. He was able to pull my house on google maps so he was able to give me an accurate quote over the phone. He came with 2 guys and they were all very professional and very nice. I was worried this process would cause a mess but they took their time and when they left everything was perfectly clean and they left my house with crystal clear windows. We said wow and had no idea how dirty they were until after they cleaned them. They were also kind enough to make sure they did not disturb my sleeping infant. I plan on using them again and again for the years to come!!! Amazing work and amazing customer service. If you need power washing/windows cleaned this is the team to use!!!
Kelly Fraser
Kelly Fraser
12:39 06 Oct 19
Very professional, quick and reasonably priced. I have already referred to several friends.
Katie Fallen
Katie Fallen
14:34 23 Oct 19
We have used Squeeky Clean Window Washing for three years, and could not be more pleased with their service and promptness. This year, in addition to cleaning our windows inside and out, we had them perform a "soft wash" of the outside of our home. My husband and I can not believe the difference the cleaning made. We worried we would need to have all of the wooden surfaces repainted, turns out, they just needed to be cleaned. It's like we have a brand new house! Wish we had before and after pictures to show the difference! Thanks, Squeeky Clean for the amazing service!
Kerri Mauer
Kerri Mauer
13:08 08 Nov 19
Alan and the team were prompt and courteous. My windows sparkle like never before! Since we are getting ready to show our house, Alan recommended an additional cleaning for curb appeal that was much appreciated! What a great deal too!
Jerrold Keilson
Jerrold Keilson
02:41 04 Dec 20
I was impressed overall with the service. They called before they came. Called again to remind me to close a window. The service was quick and efficient and they cleaned up afterward. I have used other window and gutter cleaning services and these guys were thorough and professional.
Cullen O'Grady
Cullen O'Grady
17:35 21 Sep 20
Alan and his crew did an amazing job on our windows! He was very courteous and prompt and what a great price for the amount of work! I cannot say enough good things about our experience. Will definitely use this company again for our window washing needs!
Kay Hwang
Kay Hwang
13:31 20 Oct 20
As a home owner, you work with a lot of different companies help your home maintained. For eleven years living in Chevy Chase, gone through so many experiences working with home improvemnet company. I must say my experience with Squeeky Clean Window Washing was by far superior than any other company that I worked with. Alan and his crews was exceptional; they were meticulous, kind and professional. If all other companies work like Alan's, we will be living in a better world.
Kari Fleischer
Kari Fleischer
16:57 16 May 20
Always courteous. Always professional. And neat! I invested a lot of money in designer window treatments and therefore I am very particular about who can touch them. These guys are the best. They get it! They’ve been handling both of my homes for several years.
Bess Concepcion
Bess Concepcion
22:17 18 Apr 21
This is the second consecutive time I’ve used Squeeky Clean for the window washing of our townhouse and I’ve always been satisfied with the excellent job they do! They are professional and very responsive and moreover, good price!Their are trusted by our neighborhood and therefore provide annual services for windows and gutter cleaning.
Susan Stein
Susan Stein
13:22 21 Apr 21
They did a nice job safely, and were responsive for touch ups
Candace Sweet
Candace Sweet
13:42 15 May 21
I have been using them for many years, I would highly reccomend them.They are efficient, impeccably clean and very organized.
Sharon Franklin
Sharon Franklin
13:35 31 May 21
Squeaky Clean did a great job cleaning our windows, inside and out. They were prompt in setting up our appointment, and gave me the cost up front based on my window count (how many of each type). They did a thorough job, and explained any issues they encountered (e.g. with our skylights). I definitely recommend them!
Flo C
Flo C
21:20 05 Jun 21
Great company! I have used them every year since 2016 and the quality never fails. This is the most customer centric and quality centric company I know!
Charles Abod
Charles Abod
11:39 14 Jun 21
Alan and his team are rock stars!! Great work amazing timing and truly a valuable service! I will continue working with them in the future!!
Walt Greenhalgh
Walt Greenhalgh
14:22 19 Jun 21
Alan and his hardworking colleagues did a great job, to include moving outdoor furniture and plants out of the way to be able to do a very thorough and much appreciated cleaning of the house, windows and patio. They even cleaned my roof-top solar panels, with a noticeable improvements in energy generation efficiency! I would highly recommend them!
Tamar
Tamar
13:10 20 Jul 21
Alan Augustine is just the nicest person. And he is also a perfectionist. Even my husband, who is also a perfectionist commented how fabulous our windows, driveway and front walkway look after Squeaky Clean came to do their work. They also cleaned off our the top of our gutter guards. I will definitely use Squeaky clean in the future, and I highly recommend to friends and clients!
wendy binder
wendy binder
21:37 05 Oct 21
Alan and his team were So thorough, informative, and a pleasure to work with. His quote was very reasonable and very competitive , I highly recommend them,!,,, my windows sparkle!
dfinchermd
dfinchermd
11:34 21 Oct 21
Alan and his team provide high guality service and a fair price. They are diligent in their work, cutting no corners, and make the effort to be safe and careful inside the home. We retain them twice a year for window cleaning, once outside and once both in and out. We have a large number of floor to ceiling windows and a dog and the results after cleaning are amazing.
Sonia Mills
Sonia Mills
11:57 28 Oct 21
Alan and his assistant were very thorough and thoughtful. He explained what products he was using, why and also showed us where there were defects on our windows. My windows are so clean! I’m definitely using him again.
Jim Dickinson
Jim Dickinson
16:43 05 Nov 21
Alan, the Owner of Squeeky Clean and his entire crew of Workers were very professional, taking time and care when working inside and outside the home. The entire house came out looking New ! He applied a solution to my Patio pavers to remove black mold , this also worked like a charm restoring the original look of these pavers.Overall a positive experience and Good Value for money charged to perform all these services. I highly recommend using Squeeky Clean for many many different cleaning services - true pros !
MF Hotchkiss
MF Hotchkiss
04:31 11 Nov 21
Very customer service oriented in appt set-up, confirming and follow-up. Found their pricing to be a fair, if not excellent value. I'm a repeat customer with plans to use them again.
Dara Leibovitz
Dara Leibovitz
18:59 25 Jan 22
AWESOME experience with Alan and Hector cleaning our gutters. We moved into our home last year and noticed an issue when it rained that rain was heavily falling in a specific spot on our house, rather than down the gutters. We were referred to Alan and contacted him. Within 2 weeks, we had Hector over who cleaned our gutters. Hector was thorough, efficient, and professional. Alan & Hector sent us pictures throughout the job. We will definitely be using them again next year!
Greg Benkowski
Greg Benkowski
12:26 11 Feb 22
Really impressive job. I could not get over how great the windows looked. Will definitely hire again!
Anthony Greenberg
Anthony Greenberg
13:33 21 Jun 21
Very professional. Great service. Would highly recommend.
Doug Fahey
Doug Fahey
15:10 19 Apr 22
Highly recommend Squeeky Clean! Alan and his crew have cleaned our exterior windows several times, and we have always been pleased with their work. They also clean our gutters annually. Always neat, efficient and pleasant to work with.
Joe Palermino
Joe Palermino
21:34 24 Apr 22
This is the second time we have contracted with them to power wash our siding and deck. They do an excellent and I wish I could give them more than 5 stars.
Amanda Wagner
Amanda Wagner
21:21 12 May 22
Best company for window cleaning! Alan and his team are very professional and do amazing work every time. The house feels brighter and cleaner when they’re done 🙌🏼✨ Highly recommend
marget reneberg
marget reneberg
12:40 18 May 22
After 12 years of excellent window cleaning, I can wholeheartedly recommend Alan and his crew! They’re the best!
Joan Kennedy
Joan Kennedy
10:43 29 May 22
Transformed the house, shed, and side porch to its original squeaky clean condition. Very satisfied with the work done and intend to use the company annually.
Kathy Lynch
Kathy Lynch
19:57 13 Jun 22
I was very impressed with everything about Squeeky Clean. Alan came out quickly to count my windows and doors. His timely estimate was reasonable, he and his staff are polite, efficient and professional. Any requests or questions I had were responded to immediately and courteously. Their pure water rinse left my windows sparkling even after a recent storm. They also removed mold and pollen debris from the window sashes and wiped my screens clean. I will be a returning customer!
Carol Kimmitt
Carol Kimmitt
14:08 03 Sep 22
Very easy to work with, on time. Windows and screens have never been cleaner. Look forward to using them again!
W. Jamie Kim
W. Jamie Kim
12:06 10 Sep 22
We had window cleaning, power washing, and gutter cleaning done. They were prompt, flexible and efficient. I will definitely use them again. Recommend them highly.
yourbestaddress yourbestaddress
yourbestaddress yourbestaddress
12:25 26 Sep 22
Allen and his team are very thorough, professional and kind. I’m a realtor and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this to my clients. Thank you so much for your help.
Anne Walther
Anne Walther
10:29 03 Oct 22
Alan and his team at Squeeky Clean were fantastic. Our windows had not been cleaned for more than a year and not only are they pristine now, it has rained a lot in the week since the windows were cleaned and still, when the rain drops dry, the windows sparkle like they did the day the work was done! Alan was on time, worked quickly, and did a marvelous job!
S Martinez
S Martinez
14:36 25 Oct 22
Squeeky Clean is just that! The windows were so clean they looked as if you were outdoors. Alan and his crew provide exemplary service!
Deborah Zametkin
Deborah Zametkin
14:01 17 Nov 22
My windows sparkle in the sunshine. I am so happy that I hired Squeaky clean to provide this service. They are perfectionist and it certainly shows!
Keith Fentonmiller
Keith Fentonmiller
22:29 03 Feb 23
Alan and his crew were thorough, respectful, and friendly. Did a fantastic job cleaning three floors of windows inside and out. Highly recommend!!
Scott Becker
Scott Becker
17:33 18 Feb 23
The window washing service was so easy to set up. The team showed up exactly on time and got right to work. Everything was kept very neat, no spills, etc and the windows and sills are the cleanest they have been in years. I will use them again for sure.
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