hurricane proof windows

Whether you just moved into a new house or just installed new impact windows, hurricane windows are an investment in your family’s safety, and it is extra important to keep up with them.  Dirt, dust, and grime can also prevent your home from getting the maximum amount of natural light, which helps keep your energy costs down.

What are impact windows?

Impact-resistant windows and doors are often simply called impact windows and doors. They combine heavy-duty frames with impact-resistant laminated glass and a special silicone glazing process to keep the glass from breaking away from its frame. Impact-resistant windows will help you gain the best energy efficiencies and protect the envelope of your home.

Things You Will Need

Collecting the necessary materials and equipment ahead of time will make your work easy and convenient.

    • bucket
    • squeegee
    • cleaning detergent or mild cleaning solution
    • old cotton T-shirt or cotton cloth rags
    • scraper
    • soft cloth or microfiber
    • hose or water bucket

Getting Started

Step 1: Scrubbing the Window

First, scrub your impact windows with a soft cloth and cleaning detergent to remove debris and dirt.  Tip:Clean your windows when it is cloudy outside as compared to sunny days because the sun can cause the detergent to dry faster and there is a risk of streaking.

Step 2: Use Water to Rinse the Window

After scrubbing, rinse the window with water. Use the squeegee to make sure the water is removed and to prevent water spots on your windows. Tip: When you use a squeegee, start from the very top of the window and pull it downward using pressure to force the water down. In between each squeegee pass, shake the water off so that you are not adding more water to the window. Some people find it helpful to wipe the squeegee with an absorbent cloth or t-shirt in between passes.

Step 3: Polish the Window

After you squeegee a window, you can polish it using an old cotton t-shirt. This will remove any residue and ensure a beautiful shine.

Frame Cleaning & Care Do’s and Don’ts

DO:

    • Test cleaners on an inconspicuous area first.
    • Clean tracks and weep holes.
    • Check weather-stripping and hardware for wear and tear.
    • Clean your insulating glass with proper cleaning agents.

DON’T:

    • Use a razor blade, putty knife or abrasive pad.
    • Use any petroleum-based, abrasive or caustic cleaners or solvents because they might cause permanent damage to the frame finish.
    • Use a high-pressure spray nozzle when rinsing your windows after washing.
    • Use oil-based lubricants or damage weep hole covers.
    • Ignore poor performing components.
    • Add attachments to window or glass unless approved by the window manufacturer.

More Tips for Window Cleaning:

    • To avoid window streaking caused by quickly drying cleaning solutions, try to clean windows on a cloud day.
    • The proper directional method in cleaning windows is from side to side for the insides of the glass, while from top to bottom for the outside panes.
    • Use a car squeegee meant for cleaning windshields.
    • Use a garden hose for hard-to-reach windows, but make sure it is closed and tightly sealed before you start.
    • Be careful when using strong water pressure as it can break the glass or damaged frames.