Clean windows elevate the curb appeal of your home and improve aesthetic appeal. More than that, though, cleaning your sash windows will help to stop decay. Dirt and grime leads to damp, bacteria, moss and mould that can all break down your window frame. Whilst wooden furnishings are more susceptible to decay, any window will begin to wain without proper cleaning and maintenance.
Learn how to clean your sash windows with our guide below.
What you will need
You do not need an extensive collection of tools and potions to effectively clean your windows.You will need:
- microfiber cloths
- a sponge
- a cleaning solution of your choice
- a squeegee
- a soft brush
Be sure to follow normal health and safety measures though – use a stable ladder and a helping hand if you are working on second floor windows.
Preparing Your Work Area
Lay down old newspapers or an old table cloth or tarpaulin to protect your furniture. Remove your curtains or blinds to make sure they don’t get stained, damaged or in the way. If there are any flower beds under your windows you might want to consider putting down plastic sheeting to prevent flowers from getting splashed with chemicals.
Cleaning the Exterior of Sash Windows
Start off by spraying down your windows with a hose, if you have an adjustable nozzle use higher pressure on the frames to get off any dirt and grime. After, use a soft brush to gently remove dirt from around the frame – if your frames are aluminium or uPVC you can use a bit more force, however ceramics and timber frames should be treated gently.
Start from the top down and let gravity be your friend. Once the frame is done spray down again with a hose to clear off any marks on the pane and to clear any debris now loosened by your scrubbing.
Onto the pane use a mild soap such as washing up liquid mixed with water for a gentle cleaning solution. Using a sponge, apply the detergent uniformly across the pane before removing with a squeegee to avoid streaks.
With tougher stains, repeat the process and if the stain persists use your microfibre cloth and apply some elbow grease after applying your cleaning solution. Make sure to hose down and use the squeegee again to provide the streak free finish.
If in doubt, contacting a professional is always a sensible option.
Cleaning Sash Windows from Inside
Start off with a duster and clear off any dust, make sure to clean the pane first and then the full frame. Open each sash fully before cleaning the top, then bottom before cleaning the full back and interior of the frame. If your sash windows have not been sealed properly, this can be a messy process as dirt from the exterior can get inside.
Using fresh cleaning solution, open a different window for ventilation and apply it to the pane. Wipe off with a clean microfiber cloth to ensure a clear finish. helps provide a really clear finish.
Best Way to Clean Sash Windows: Tips and Tricks
Establish a regular cleaning routine to keep your windows looking good. Address small issues promptly to prevent bigger headaches down the line. Dirt can build up on the frame which will lead to issues both aesthetic and structural.
Regular Maintenance for Sash Windows
Schedule regular checks to look at your window frames and inspect each pane. Your sash windows are an investment and should be treated with care. Clean when necessary or call in a professional to ensure a stellar service.
If your clearing efforts are too late, contact our team of experts.With over 40 years of experience, our team can repair, restore or replace sash windows to keep the charm of your home and preserve it for the future.
