Why Do My Windows Have Streaks or Smearing After Cleaning?

Windows should be regularly cleaned for a number of reasons.

For one, it is to remove any dirt, grime and other debris, such as bird droppings, that could otherwise cause long-term damage.

And second, to make your windows’ glass sparkle with crystal clear clarity, which not only enhances your home’s appearance, but, lets more natural light in to your home. Clean windows also increase your visibility to your outdoor surroundings.

So, perhaps, someone you’ve hired, has just finished cleaning your home’s windows. Or maybe you’ve finished cleaning them yourself. Either way, you now notice that there is some streaking or smearing on your windows. Therefore, you might be wondering, what gives?

5 Reasons Why Your Windows may have Streaking or Smearing

There are several common reasons why, after cleaning your windows, streaking and smearing might occur.

Window Cleaning Residue

Despite using the proper window cleaning solutions and tools, streaking can still occur when very small remnants of dirt, grime and dust, are left behind from the window cleaning process. When these residual particles, combined with a window cleaning agent, dry, they can create a cloudy film that dries on the glass surface.

Poor Window Cleaning Technique

Utilizing improper technique (e.g. wiping in a circular motion or failing to wipe from one direction), when cleaning windows is a very common reason why streaking and smears can occur. That is why it is best to hire an experienced and well-trained, professional window cleaner, who knows how to correctly clean windows.

Incorrect Mix of Cleaning Solution

Window streaking or smearing can occur when the cleaning solution used has too much detergent or cleaning agent in it, making it more prone to leaving a soapy residue behind. In an area like the Phoenix, Arizona metro area, we have hard water, which contains a greater concentration of calcium and magnesium. As such, hard water is more likely to cause glass streaking.

Dirty Window Cleaning Tools

If you or a window cleaner you hire, uses a dirty, or  worn out squeegee, this can lead to a residual film being left behind. Additionally, using a cloth and/or paper towel, rather than a clean, good quality squeegee, to dry your windows will also make it difficult to have streak-free and smear-free, windows.

High Outside Temperatures and Direct Sunlight

High outside temperatures, along with direct sunlight on recently cleaned windows, can result in window cleaning solution drying out too rapidly. When this happens, window streaking and smearing can occur.

How Clear Pro Can Give You Streak Free Windows

Making your windows look their very best with streak-free glass is no easy task. That is why ClearPro is your best choice.

With our experienced and skilled, window cleaning technicians, together with the use of properly mixed cleaning solution and the right window cleaning tools, you can be rest assured that we’ll leave your windows crystal clear, sparkling clean, streak and smear-free.

If you’re tired of streaky and smeared windows, call ClearPro today at 480-459-5644 to reach our Scottsdale and Phoenix window cleaning professionals.