6 Pro Tips for Cleaning PVC-U Windows
by Guest Post on Oct 8, 2018
Cleaning windows is a chore that some homeowners do not look forward to doing since it can be a tedious, physically demanding task.
However, if you need to make your home spotless for an upcoming event (such as a visit by your meticulous mother-in-law, or a party wherein guests will be moving all around the house), those windows need to sparkle.
It’s Easier and Faster to Clean PVC-U Windows
If you have PVC-U windows, specifically those with the tilt and turn design, cleaning those will not entail as much work as cleaning traditional windows will.
You will not have to step out of the house to clean the exterior side of the windows. Also, PVC-U windows require very little maintenance to begin with; with their sleek design, occasional wiping is usually enough to keep them looking stunning.
In order to get those windows properly clean and sparkling for your upcoming event, here are six great tips from professional cleaning services to help you out.
1. Use Scotch tape to get rid of dust settled in the tracks, tight corners and crevices of the window.
Dust always settles in those tight indentations of a window design and they are quite tricky to get rid of. One of the easiest ways to get them out is by using a strip of Scotch tape and pressing it into the nooks so dust will adhere to the tape. Afterward, peel it off. Repeat the process until all dust is removed.
Scotch tape is the best to use because it does not adhere so much that it peels off paint or leaves residue from the adhesive. However, if you feel like the tape still sticks too much and there is a risk of damaging the window colors, quickly stick the tape to your skin first to reduce the stickiness of the adhesive.
2. For light dirt, diluted dishwashing or laundry detergent liquid works well.
Just a very small amount of either cleaning product will do. Mix it in warm water and apply to the window. This light solution can dislodge hardened dust and most stains.
3. For heavier soiling, use a specialist PVC cleaning liquid.
The exterior part of windows — be they sliding sash windows or flush tilt and turn — can accumulate a lot of dirt that can get caked on due to all the other natural elements. They are tough to dislodge, and most of the time, getting the dirt off damages the finish of PVC-U windows.
It is best to use a cleaning agent formulated specifically for the job. But before tackling an entire window right away, test how effectively it works in a small area first. This way, if the product turns out to be too harsh and alters the finish of the window, the damage will be minimal and hardly visible.
4. Use microfiber cloths or a chamois to wipe away dirt or to apply the cleaning solution.
Taking care of your PVC-U windows’ finish or glazing is a must. So make sure to use really soft cleaning cloths made of microfiber to apply the cleaning solution, as well as to wipe dirt off.
A microfiber cloth will not scratch the glazing and it will also leave no streaks behind, especially when you use it to dry the windows.
5. Invest in a good quality window squeegee for the glass elements of the window.
A window squeegee just makes polishing the glass components of the windows a whole lot easier. It removes the residue of the cleaning solution quickly, and it does not create a lot of streaks.
To make the glass sparkle, after cleaning it with a squeegee, follow it up with a wipe-down using a microfiber cloth.
6. Apply Vaseline or a special lubricant to the hinges of the PVC-U windows.
Vaseline is usually good enough, but professional window cleaners advise asking the manufacturer for the right lubricant to “oil” the hinges and all other moving parts and ensure the best results.
The application of the lubricant does not only improve the windows’ movement; it also dislodges dirt that has settled in the moving parts, making it easier for you to brush it off lightly with a toothbrush or wipe away.
With the right strategies, you can clean your PVC-U windows in an organized and more effective manner. This will reduce the amount of time you dedicate to the task, yet still achieve the results you want. Afterward, you can be confident that the windows will be clean, clear and sparkling for your guests.
AUTHOR BIO
Carmen Velilla is an experienced Brand Manager currently overseeing the strategic development of multiple brands as part of the Epwin Group. She is an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (ACIM), specializing in Corporate Communication and Digital Marketing.
Popular Articles
Three Places to Spend Money on the Exterior of Your Home
When you have the exterior of your home remodeled, you are investing, time, energy and convenience into the project and you want to make sure that...
94899 Views
Homemade Headboards-Make an Upholstered or Wooden Headboard
Homemade headboards can add a lot of personality to any bedroom. They can be coordinated with existing furniture and room decor or they can be the...
74292 Views
When to Use a Brush, Roller or Sponge Brush
Brushes are a good choice for painting trim and woodwork. They are also useful for cutting in the edges around the top and bottom edges and corners...
71742 Views
Creating a Cottage Kitchen with Bead Board
Kitchen decor can range from modern and bold to elegant and elaborate by using strategic kitchen pieces. One of the most popular decorating trends...
52733 Views
Gas Fireplace Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Follow these steps for diagnosing and troubleshooting Gas Fireplaces repairs. For the average DIYer, this may seem intimidating, depending on the...
30574 Views
Latest Articles
10 Concrete Patio Ideas on a Budget
A concrete patio can be a game-changer for your outdoor space. It is durable, versatile, and can be customized to fit your style. But what if you...
on Mar 25, 2025
Tips for Creating a Stunning Personalized Photo on Canvas
Order the unique beauty of a personalized photo on canvas and bring your memories to life. With a customized photo on canvas, you can transform...
on Mar 7, 2025
Best Areas to Buy Property in Singapore for Long-Term Growth
Singapore's real estate market remains one of the most stable and lucrative in the world. With limited land supply, strong governmental...
on Feb 18, 2025
Troubleshooting Excess Water in Your HVAC Secondary Condensate Drain Pan
When maintaining your air conditioning system, it is easy to overlook the condensate drain pan - until excess water starts pooling in places where...
on Jan 12, 2025
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): A Beginners Guide
By combining the advantages of stock market and real estate investing, Real Estate Investment Trusts, or REITs, offer an alluring investment...
on Dec 19, 2024
Featured Articles
What Type of Licensed Contractor Should You Hire?
on Feb 28, 2017
Hire Contractors / Estimates

Looking for a specialty project? There are many types of contractors available for your home improvement needs. Finding the right type of...
Sponsored Articles
Best Areas to Buy Property in Singapore for Long-Term Growth
on Feb 18, 2025
Real Estate / Finance

Singapore's real estate market remains one of the most stable and lucrative in the world. With limited land supply, strong governmental...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 264
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 240
- Real Estate / Finance — 203
- Appliance / Repair — 186
- Interior Design / Decor — 184
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 148
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 144
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 118
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 116
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 113
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
To Go Artificial, or to Not Go Artificial
Sometimes known as the negative space when it comes to gardening, the lawn is one of the most crucial aspects to your garden and home space,...
Things You Should Know as You Install a Home Security System
Safety is an issue of very high significance in any society. You as an individual have a right to be protected and this is a concept that is even...
Homeowner In The UK? Here's Why You Need to Know about Rainwater Drainage Systems
In the United Kingdom, there is an average of around 1,200 millimeters of rainfall annually. Keeping rainwater out of your home and away from your...
10 Essential Questions to Ask During a Sunroom and Lanai Consultation
When considering the addition of a sunroom or lanai to your home, a consultation with a professional lanai contractor is crucial. This initial...
8 Point Miter Saw Buying Guide
A miter saw is a functional tool that lets you cut through numerous angles. It is a must-have item for woodworkers, carpenters, and anyone in the...