To keep your outside windows clean, there are a few steps to take before the actual cleaning process begins:

• Clear the areas around the windows both inside and out. All dust and debris should be removed.
• Remove and clean the screens. You cannot get your windows clean if the screens are still on!
• Gather your cleaning supplies.
• Clean on a cloudy day. While a sunny day might be warmer, the glare from the sun can hide the imperfections you are trying to remove. Additionally, the sun can dry the cleaner onto the glass, leaving hard-to-remove streaks.

Here is our list of recommended tools:

• Stepladder
• Wash bucket
• Sponge
• Squeegee (optional – better for larger windows)
• Soft broom or cloth
• Vacuum
• Scrubbing sponge or scraper
• Window cleaning solution (we prefer a solution of water and vinegar)
• Microfiber cleaning cloth
• Soft cotton towel for cleanup

Steps to clean your windows:

• Remove the screens.
• Your windows should be completely clear of dirt and dust before you apply the cleaning solution. Vacuum around the frames first, then spray the glass down with water to ensure all the dirt is gone.
• Using your cleanser of choice, go over the surface of the window with a soft microfiber cloth or sponge mop. Make sure the cloth is clean and dry before use!
• Rinse off the windows once more.
• Wipe the windows dry with the squeegee. Be sure to dry the squeegee off between each pass. For smaller windows, it may be better to use a microfiber towel instead.
• For stubborn stains, dirt, or bird droppings, saturate the spots with a solution of vinegar and water and let stand for several minutes. You can then scrub it out, but be careful not to use a harsh cloth that could scratch the window.
• Spray, clean, and dry your screens before replacing them.

Did you know that our windows easy to clean and maintain? If you’d like to learn more, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no obligation consultation. We’re proud to serve Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, and Juno.

The post How To Keep Exterior Windows Clean appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

• Tip #1: Take care of hidden damages. As the snow and ice on your windows start to melt, underlying issues may be revealed, such as cracks, chips, or warping. Have a professional repair major damages as soon as possible.

• Tip #2: Check the weather stripping. The material between the sash and pane of your windows helps seal the windows and prevent air leakage. This is often one of the first features to wear down, so it’s important to check its condition. If the stripping is worn down, it can let outside air into your home, resulting in higher energy bills.

• Tip #3: Clean the glass. During the winter, dirt and debris can accumulate on windows, breaking down the surface and causing premature aging. To prevent this from happening, clean your windows with soap, water, and a good window cleaner. Don’t forget to do both sides!

• Tip #4: Use lighter curtains. During winter, it’s common to hang curtains made of heavier fabric and darker colors. However, during spring and summer it can leave rooms feeling too hot and stuffy. Switch to light-colored, thinner curtains to help with airflow and make your rooms feel brighter.

• Tip #5: Display indoor plants. Indoor plants are a great way to bring spring inside your home. Not only do they add color, but they also filter allergens and pollutants, promote natural oxygen production, and absorb carbon dioxide.

When you’re ready to take the first step, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no obligation consultation. We’re proud to serve Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, and Juno.

The post 5 Tips To Prepare Windows For Spring appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Here are the top exterior window cleaning tips from the window experts at Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska:

How to Prepare for Window Cleaning

To keep your outside windows clean, there are a few steps to take before the actual cleaning process begins.

1. Clear the areas around the windows both inside and out. All dust and debris should be removed.
2. Remove and clean the screens. You cannot get your windows clean if the screens are still on!
3. Gather your cleaning supplies.
4. Clean on a cloudy day. While a sunny day might be warmer, the glare from the sun can hide the imperfections you are trying to remove. Additionally, the sun can dry the cleaner onto the glass, leaving hard-to-remove streaks.

What Do I Need to Clean My Windows?

Here is our list of recommended tools to keep the exterior of your windows clean:

• Stepladder
• Wash bucket
• Sponge
• Squeegee (optional – better for larger windows)
• Soft broom or cloth
• Vacuum
• Scrubbing sponge or scraper
• Window cleaning solution (we prefer a solution of water and vinegar)
• Microfiber cleaning cloth
• Soft cotton towel for cleanup

How Do I Clean the Outside of My Windows?

1. Remove the screens.
2. Your windows should be completely clear of dirt and dust before you apply the cleaning solution! Vacuum around the frames first, then spray the glass down with water to ensure all the dirt is gone.
3. Using your cleanser of choice, go over the surface of the window with a soft microfiber cloth or sponge mop. Make sure the cloth is clean and dry before use!
4. Rinse off the windows once more.
5. Wipe the windows dry with the squeegee. Be sure to dry the squeegee off between each pass. For smaller windows, it may be better to use a microfiber towel instead.
6. For stubborn stains, dirt, or bird droppings, saturate the spots with a solution of vinegar and water and let stand for several minutes. You can then scrub it out, but be careful not to use a harsh cloth that could scratch the window.
7. Spray, clean, and dry your screens before replacing them.

When Should Alaska Residents Clean Their Windows?

Spring is the best to clear off the winter gunk and clear out for warmer weather. Summer is ideal to remove spring pollen and muddy rainfall. Do what makes the most sense for your schedule and your needs.

Additional Exterior Window Cleaning Tips

• Many swear by newspaper, but microfiber is much better to dry off your windows after cleaning.
• Screens are a significant contributor to window grime. You can leave them off for the winter to keep your windows cleaner longer.
• If you use sprinklers, be sure they don’t spray onto your windows! This can create a mineral buildup which can cause permanent damage.
• Trees or shrubs close to the house can also cause damage if their pollen builds up. Make sure they are trimmed back.

Looking for quality window replacement services in Alaska? The experts at Renewal by Andersen have you covered! Call today or check out our specials and schedule your home’s window replacement in Anchorage, Wasilla, Kenai Peninsula, The Valley, Fairbanks, Juneau, and surrounding AK areas.

The post How to Keep Outside Windows Clean: Exterior Window Cleaning Tips appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

As a homeowner, having sparkling clean windows is critical to the overall appearance and functionality of your home. Doing so allows you to enjoy a better view of the outdoors and make sure they open and close smoothly.  But how often should you do this important home maintenance task? Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska, your trusted window installers in the area, answers this question below. 

Short Answer: Once a Month

You need to be proactive when it comes to cleaning your windows. Leaving them unattended for too long can lead to the buildup of dust, pollen, and dirt on the surfaces, causing damage. Experts recommend doing window cleaning once or twice a month, especially if you live in a dusty area or region with too much pollen count. You can, however, do it twice a month if you live in a location with a more moderate climate.

Regular window cleaning helps you prevent excess dirt and debris buildup on the frames and glass. Not only that, but it also allows you to halt the growth of mold and mildew, which we all know can impact the overall health of everyone in your household. Window cleaning also helps minimize moisture, thus keeping your windows’ structural integrity intact.

Tips to Cleaning Your Windows Properly

If you recently purchased replacement windows, you’ll want to make sure they’re cleaned properly and efficiently. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Use the right cleaning materials and solution. Mixing dish soap or bleach and water inside a spray bottle is enough to keep your window surfaces sparkling clean. Steer clear of abrasive brushes and cleaners, as these can compromise the windows’ frame finish and glass. Never use newspapers when drying your windows as well.

• Schedule your window cleaning on a cloudy day. Doing this task on a bright, sunny day will cause the solution to dry on the surface too quickly, leaving smudge marks or stains.

• Clean from side to side. Wipe your windows from one side to the other using a cloth soaked in diluted bleach or dish soap. Start from the top and work your way down.

For your window replacement needs, turn to Renewal by Andersen of Alaska. Our team installs some of the most energy-efficient replacement windows and patio doors in the industry. Give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free in-home consultation. We serve homeowners in Anchorage, AK, and the nearby areas of Fairbanks, The Valley and the Kenai Peninsula.

The post How Often Should You Clean Your Windows? appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.