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How To Clean Windows In Extreme Heat

Cleaning windows can be a daunting task at any time of the year, but when the temperature skyrockets, particularly here in Arizona’s Valley of the Sun, the challenge can increase significantly.

Extreme heat not only affects the cleaning process but can also impact the efficacy of the cleaning products you use. This article will guide you through the best practices for cleaning windows in sweltering conditions, ensuring crystal-clear results without the hassle.

The Challenges of Extreme Heat

When temperatures soar, the sun can dry cleaning solutions too quickly, leading to unsightly streaks or residue. Additionally, the heat can cause window surfaces to become excessively hot, making it uncomfortable for you to work and potentially damaging to the window materials if proper precautions are not taken.

To achieve the best results and ensure your safety while cleaning in extreme heat, follow these essential tips.

Choose the Right Time of Day

One of the most effective strategies to combat the effects of extreme heat is timing. Early mornings or late afternoons are generally the best times to clean your windows. During these hours, temperatures tend to be cooler, and the sun’s intensity is lower, minimizing the chances of your cleaning solution drying too quickly.

Use the Appropriate Cleaning Solutions

Avoid harsh chemicals that can evaporate too quickly in extreme heat. Instead, opt for a homemade solution composed of vinegar and water (1:1 ratio), or use a specialized window cleaning solution designed to work in higher temperatures. This will not only cut through grime more effectively but will also reduce the risk of streaking.

Keep Your Tools Handy

Gather all necessary cleaning tools before you begin:

Microfiber cloths

These are essential for streak-free finishes and won’t scratch the glass.

 Squeegee

A high-quality squeegee can help eliminate excess water and prevent streaking.

Bucket

Use a bucket to store your cleaning solution and water.

Extension pole

If you’re working on second-story windows, an extension pole can help you reach high spots without added risk.

Work in Sections

To avoid the cleaning solution drying on the glass, work in small sections—about three feet at a time. Apply your cleaning solution and use your microfiber cloth to wipe down the window, then follow up immediately with the squeegee. Start at the top of the section and work your way down to prevent drips from staining areas you’ve already cleaned.

Rinse Regularly

In extreme heat, dirt and grime can become baked onto the glass surface. To combat this, rinse your windows with clean water from a hose or a bucket after cleaning each section. This helps to eliminate any residual cleaning solution and protects the glass surface from streaking.

Stay Hydrated

Remember that both cleaning windows and being outdoors in extreme heat can dehydrate you quickly. Ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the process, take breaks in the shade, and listen to your body. If you start feeling faint or excessively fatigued, take a longer break.

Consider Hiring a Professional Window Cleaning Service

If the heat is unbearable and safety is a concern, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals at ClearPro. Our window cleaning technicians are equipped to handle extreme conditions and often have specialized equipment and solutions for the job. Utilizing professional window cleaning services from ClearPro can save you time, effort and ensure you get sparkling results.

If you would like to learn more about cleaning your home’s windows in extreme heat, contact Scottsdale/Phoenix Window Cleaning professional, ClearPro today!

Window Cleaning Tips for Arizona’s Monsoon Season

If you live here in the Valley of the Sun, you probably know that monsoon season runs from June through September, each year. That said, we’ve had many customers over the years, ask us for window cleaning advice during Central Arizona’s monsoon season.

While the monsoon storms provide much-needed moisture and a break from the relentless heat, they can also leave behind a dirty mess on your windows. Dust, debris and rain can all contribute to less-than-clear views from the windows of your home or business. To help you maintain sparkling clean windows during and after the monsoon season, we’ve compiled some essential window cleaning tips if you’re planning to clean your windows yourself.

Timing is Everything

As you may know, Arizona monsoon storms can be quite unpredictable, with sudden downpours following days of intense heat. Understanding the weather forecast can help you plan your cleaning schedule. Ideally, consider cleaning your windows just before a rainstorm. The rainfall can wash away some of the grime, making your cleaning efforts more effective. Conversely, it’s best to avoid cleaning your windows immediately after a storm, as moisture can trap dirt and dust, making it more challenging to achieve spotless glass.

Get the Right Tools

Having the appropriate equipment is vital for effective window cleaning, especially during the monsoon season.

Here’s a list of must-have supplies:

A Squeegee

A squeegee will enable you to achieve a streak-free finish. Look for one with a rubber blade to ensure efficient water removal.

Microfiber Cloths

Using lint-free, microfiber cloths to wipe off and dry up residual water after squeegeeing from window frames and glass panes should prevent scratches from occurring.

A Clean Bucket

Using a clean bucket is important when mixing your cleaning solution and/or rinsing your cleaning tools.

Natural Cleaning Solution

Use of warm water mixed with white vinegar or a few drops of dish soap can offer an effective and gentle way to clean your windows.

Extension Pole

If you need to clean windows high up (second story), then utilizing an extension pole can make the reaching those windows easier and safer.

Clean in Sections

Sounds obvious, but believe it or not, some people would not thing to clean their windows in sections. Why do this? The primary reason you would want to do it this way is to prevent water streaking on your windows. First, start by using a cleaning solution on the window. You then want to squeegee it off starting at top and then work downward from there. This should help to ensure that filthy water won’t travel down onto previously cleaned sections further down. Keep in mind, that it’s a good practice to clean off the squeegee blade with a microfiber cloth after each pass.

Pay Attention to Tracks and Frames

When cleaning the glass on your windows, it’s imperative that you pay attention to the window tracks and frames. Why? That’s because after a rainy and windy, monsoon, you’ll usually find a gritty, muddy residue covering the window tracks and frames. By utilizing something like a toothbrush, you can remove stubborn debris from window tracks. When done, use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe dry and clean.

Not Interested in Cleaning Your Own Windows? Consider Professional Window Cleaning

Of course, not everyone has the time, skill and tools to properly clean their own windows. That’s completely understandable, thus, you should leave monsoon window cleaning to the professionals.

This is especially true if your home’s windows are high up and difficult to safely reach. Attempting to clean windows that are two stories or higher up, is simply not worth the risk to your health.

Regular Maintenance

Finally, regular window maintenance is key to keeping your windows looking their best throughout the monsoon season. Aim for at least two thorough cleanings during the season, once at the beginning and again after the bulk of storm activity has settled. This will help reduce the build-up of debris and make each clean easier.

Though the Arizona monsoon season has its challenges, maintaining clean windows is entirely achievable with a little preparation if you choose to do it yourself, or even more so, if you decide to hire a window cleaning professional.

If you would like to learn more about how to effectively clean your windows during Arizona’s monsoon season, contact the Phoenix/Scottsdale window cleaning professionals at ClearPro today!