If you live above the first floor of a high-rise apartment, you can probably attest to the embarrassment of dirty windows. Cleaning windows, in this case, can be difficult but it’s not an impossible task as long as you protect yourself with the right window washing equipment.
Safety is one of the biggest concerns if you live in a high-rise flat. This is because falling out of a window is a possibility if you aren’t careful. The following are six steps to follow on how to clean windows in a high rise flat:
1. Schedule the window cleaning for the right day
Cleaning windows in a high rise flat should be a scheduled event. You shouldn’t just wake up one morning and decide to clean them. This is important, especially where high-rise flats are involved.
If your apartment is on or above the second floor, you don’t want to put in the time and effort into cleaning your apartment windows to have them streak.
Streaking usually happens when cleaning windows on a hot or sunny day. This is because the cleaner tends to dry faster than you can wipe it off.
The cleaner typically causes streaks that can’t be removed by more rubbing. You will end up with partly clean, partly streaked windows, while the goal is sparkling clean windows. Clean your windows on a day when the temperature is projected at below 70 degrees and when it’s not raining.
2. Gather your window cleaning supplies
You need several supplies in order to clean widows in a high rise flat. Get them before you begin. You will need white vinegar or mild liquid dishwashing detergent, towels, two buckets, rubber gloves, large sponges, squeegees with extension poles and lint-free cloths such as chamois, old t-shirts or other soft cloth.
When using old clothing, choose those that have never been treated with a fabric softener to avoid streaking your windows. Never use paper towels when cleaning windows since they leave lint behind.
For standard sliding, detachable windows, follow the next step.
3. Remove the window screen if present
Not all windows feature a window screen. If yours does, remove it before accessing the outside panels from the inside.
The process of removing the window screen varies with each brand, but in most cases, you can remove it by pressing up the bottom of the frame, and lifting it out of the window frame.
4. Remove the high rise windows
The design of sliding windows makes them easy to detach and clean. If you don’t want to or can’t wash your sliding window from the outside, remove and clean it in the comfort of your home.
Before you can lift out a panel, unlock and slide it open, at least halfway. If it’s stuck, or it doesn’t slide, check if something is blocking it. Some sliding windows are held into place using screws to prevent unauthorized access from outside. Along the inside corners of the frame are window screws. Use a screwdriver to loosen them.
All you need to do is lift the panel and pull it out of its frame. Next, grab both sides of the panel and lift it while tilting the bottom out (the panel should always pop out from the bottom).
Next, pull it down and set it aside in a safe place until you’re ready to clean it. Work slowly and handle the panel with care when removing it from the frame.
Applying too much pressure or working too quickly can result in damages to the window. You might also hurt yourself in the process.
In some cases, the window you’re working on might be too large. Ask a friend or anyone else in the flat to help you with the lifting. After all, safety is important when you are cleaning windows in a high rise flat.
5. Clean the window panel
After detaching the window panel, clean it as you would any other. Start by mixing the cleaning solution. Most experts recommend the essential water and dish soap mixture. Take one teaspoon of liquid dish soap and add it to two gallons of water.
For windows that feature multiple small panes, a sponge will do just fine. Dip it into the bucket containing the cleaning solution. Next, wring out the excess water and wipe down the entire window. As you clean, make sure to get to all the corners.
Once done, wipe the window dry using a dry cloth. After cleaning one window, dry it before starting on the next one.
For large picture windows, use a squeegee to wash and dry them. For best results, clean using horizontal strokes, making sure not to miss any spot by overlapping each stroke by a few inches.
Also, ensure the squeegee stays in contact with the surface when in use. If you hear too much squeaking when washing or drying the windows, add more soap to the mixture.
6. Put the window back into the frame
After cleaning a window, put it back by simply lifting it to the top of its frame and tilting it back into place. If lifted high enough, the panel should automatically pop back in. Don’t be in a rush. Insert it back carefully to avoid damaging it or hurting yourself.
Again, if the window panel is too large, ask for help to lift it back into the window frame. Finally, close the window and tighten the screws if applicable.
Cleaning windows that can’t be detached is tricky, especially on high rise flats. Due to the risks involved, you’re better off contacting a professional window cleaning service.
