We've been using over the counter window spray cleaners for years. Some work better than others but many of them leave a lot to be desired. From running to streaks, cleaning windows isn't always as easy as you'd think.
We had the opportunity try out Fish Foam from Fish Window Cleaning which is a professional window cleaning service. Their product is a premium foam glass cleaner that is all-weather and ammonia-free. In our tests it didn't leave an unsightly haze or streaks and it worked so well we went on a window cleaning binge and even cleaned our French door windows both inside and out which we usually ignore since they're so tough to clean.
We like it so much that Fish Foam is providing us with a Giveaway of 3-packs of Fish Foam to Five winners. These are some of the best odds we've had in any Giveaway!
HOW TO ENTER
You can enter once-per-day and you've got two options! Enter both ways to double your chance of winning!
1. Leave a comment below telling us what window is the toughest to clean.
We're wrapping up our Window Wisdom series with a short video presented by Steve Donovan from Taylor Brothers Architectural Products here in Los Angeles. They carry a wide selection of windows and doors, but it's obvious that Steve really knows the Marvin lineup and for him the exclusive features and fit and finish help Marvin standout from the competition.
The features that really stand out are the cleaning options on the casement windows and glider window. Being able to access the backside of a window is not only convenient but adds to your safety since it's not necessary to use a ladder to clean the windows from a second story or higher. As you can see in the video the process of rotating or removing the windows is extremely easy.
We also like the multi-point hardware that is a part of the door systems which provide added security and a more snug fit which contributes to a longer lasting door that is more energy efficient.
If you are shopping for new windows check out the previous articles in our Window Wisdom series which should help make your decision.
We'd like to thank Marvin Windows and Doors for providing design inspiration and expert window knowledge. They've always been a great resource for us and we're impressed with the innovation of their new products such as the glider window (shown above). They even offer 9 specialty window shapes that can add great visual interest to any room.
Check back this week as we visit a Marvin Windows dealer who will walk us through the most important window features that any homeowner would find important.
The third installment of our Window Wisdom series sponsored by Marvin Windows and Doors will cover cleaning and caring for your windows. After you've spent time evaluating your windows and possibly even buying new windows using our shopping for the correct window, you want to make sure your investment lasts as long as possible and your windows perform to their maximum abilities. New windows shouldn't be installed and then forgotten about until a problem arises. Regular maintenance should be performed and we even suggest inspecting your windows as you clean them to make sure the panes and frames remain in good condition and the window opens and closes as it should.
Common Window Problems
Double Hung Window Issues
Wood double-hung windows will often require the most maintenance as there are many moving parts. Typically these windows are found in older homes so it's also likely they haven't been cleaned in many years. Wood can shrink, rot and warp, window joints can loosen, and paint can make the sashes stick shut. Sash cords are also known to break fairly often which is a common problem among these older windows.
Modern double-hung windows are constructed of more weatherproof materials and the double-hung from Marvin even has an integrated tilt lever lock that allows the sash to be tilted in or removed for cleaning.
Marvin has innovated even further with their Ultimate Casement Window that features an exclusive wash mode that rotates 160 degrees allowing for both the interior and the exterior of the window to be cleaned from the inside of the house.
This saves time and is also much safer while cleaning exterior windows on upper floors.
Ditch the Dirt
Dust and dirt can quickly accumulate in and around the moving parts of a window. If your build-up is substantial, start with a vacuum and clean the tracks. Use a toothbrush to reach those areas your vacuum can't and then clean and lubricate all of the mechanical parts using a silicone spray.
You can use a mild detergent on the sashes and frames, and all steel surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned and painted with rustproof exterior paint.
Weather stripping should also be inspected for cracking or peeling and sprayed with a cleaner to help wipe away dirt and build up.
