How to Clean Outside Windows You Can’t Reach: A Foolproof Guide for Crystal Clear Panes
How to Clean Outside Windows You Can T Reach?
Cleaning outside windows that you can’t reach can be a challenging task for non-professionals.
Safety should always be the top priority when dealing with difficult windows.
To clean these windows, you can gather all necessary equipment beforehand to minimize the need for back and forth trips.
If using a ladder, make sure it extends beyond the area you need to reach and is securely placed against the house.
Having someone at the base of the ladder to steady it is best practice.
It is recommended to wear protective gloves in case the glass breaks.
Alternatively, using a telescoping rod with a mop attachment is a safe way to clean high windows without leaving the ground.
However, be cautious of low-hanging wires when using the telescoping rod.
Another option is to remove the windows from the inside and clean them in another location, providing a better angle for cleaning.
Cleaning windows from above, on the roof, can also be safer than reaching them from below if the roof has a gentle slope.
It is important to note that magnetic window cleaners are not recommended as they may not work effectively and can scratch the glass.
If all else fails or if you feel uncomfortable, it is suggested to hire a professional window cleaner who has the knowledge, experience, and tools to clean windows thoroughly and safely.
Key Points:
- Safety should always be the top priority when cleaning difficult-to-reach windows.
- Gather all necessary equipment beforehand to minimize back and forth trips.
- If using a ladder, ensure it extends beyond the area and is securely placed against the house, with someone at the base to steady it.
- Wear protective gloves in case of glass breakage.
- Consider using a telescoping rod with a mop attachment to clean high windows from the ground.
- Avoid low-hanging wires when using a telescoping rod.
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that the tallest ladder ever used to clean outside windows was over 550 feet tall? It was used to clean the windows of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the world’s tallest building.
2. In the early 1900s, window cleaners used to rely on a peculiar but effective cleaning solution made from a mixture of vinegar and newspaper. The vinegar would help remove grime and stains while the newspaper acted as an excellent cleaning cloth.
3. Window cleaning can be a seriously competitive sport in some countries. The International Window Cleaning Association hosts an annual competition where professionals from around the world showcase their skills and compete for the title of the fastest and most efficient window cleaner.
4. Believe it or not, there is a disease called “squeegee shoulder” that affects window cleaners who use squeegees to clean windows for prolonged periods. It is an overuse injury caused by repetitive gripping and lifting motions associated with this cleaning tool.
5. The famous New York-based artist, Jean-Michel Basquiat, who specialized in graffiti and neo-expressionist paintings, used to work as a window cleaner before he rose to fame in the art world. His early experiences cleaning windows in Manhattan greatly influenced his artistic style and the symbolic use of visual motifs in his work.
Safety Is The Biggest Concern
Cleaning hard-to-reach windows can be a challenging task for non-professionals. Safety should always be the top priority when tackling this job. When working at heights, especially on a ladder, accidents can happen if proper precautions are not taken. Here are some important safety considerations to keep in mind:
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Ladder placement: It is crucial to make sure that the ladder you use extends beyond the area you need to reach. Additionally, the ladder should be securely placed against the house to prevent any accidents. Correct ladder placement helps maintain stability and prevents the risk of falling.
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Steadying the ladder: Having someone at the base of the ladder to steady it is considered a best practice. This person can maintain the ladder’s stability and provide assistance if needed. It is essential to communicate with this person throughout the cleaning process to ensure a safe experience.
Gathering Necessary Equipment
Before you begin cleaning your hard-to-reach windows, it is highly recommendable to gather all the necessary equipment and supplies. This will minimize the need to go back and forth, ultimately saving time and effort. Make sure you have the following items on hand:
- A ladder: If using a ladder, choose one that is sturdy and specifically made for outdoor use. Ensure that it is in good working condition and can reach the height required for your windows.
- A telescoping rod: Using a telescoping rod with a mop attachment is a safe and efficient way to clean high windows without leaving the ground. This tool helps you reach windows that are inaccessible with a ladder.
- Protective gloves: It is always recommended to wear protective gloves when cleaning windows. In case the glass breaks, gloves will provide an additional layer of safety.
- Cleaning solutions and a bucket: Use a suitable window cleaning solution to effectively remove dirt and grime. Fill a bucket with the cleaning solution and water to have it readily available during the cleaning process.
- Microfiber cloths or squeegees: Microfiber cloths or squeegees are excellent tools for drying and polishing windows. They ensure a streak-free finish and leave your windows sparkling clean.
Don’t forget to gather all the necessary equipment before starting the cleaning process to save time and effort.
- A ladder
- A telescoping rod
- Protective gloves
- Cleaning solutions and a bucket
- Microfiber cloths or squeegees
Using A Ladder Safely
Cleaning high windows often requires using a ladder. However, it is essential to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Follow these tips for using a ladder safely:
- Secure the ladder and position it correctly against the house. It should be on stable ground and at the correct angle to avoid wobbling or sliding.
- Check that the ladder extends beyond the area you need to reach. Overextending or overreaching can lead to falls and accidents.
- Have someone hold the base of the ladder. This person can provide stability and prevent the ladder from tipping over.
- Always face the ladder and maintain three points of contact: two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand. This ensures balance and minimizes the risk of falling.
Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working with ladders.
Wearing Protective Gloves
When dealing with hard-to-reach windows, wearing protective gloves is highly recommended. Gloves serve as a barrier to protect your hands in case the glass breaks. This precautionary measure prevents cuts and injuries while cleaning your windows.
To ensure your safety, invest in a pair of sturdy gloves that provide both protection and dexterity. This will allow you to handle your cleaning tools effectively.
To summarize:
- Wear protective gloves when cleaning hard-to-reach windows.
- Gloves serve as a barrier to protect your hands in case of glass breakage.
- Invest in sturdy gloves that provide protection and dexterity.
Remember, safety should always be a priority when cleaning windows.
Using A Telescoping Rod
A telescoping rod with a mop attachment is an excellent tool for cleaning high windows without the need for a ladder. This handy device allows you to reach windows that are almost impossible to access otherwise. Here are some tips for using a telescoping rod:
- Ensure that the mop attachment is secure and in good condition before starting.
- Adjust the telescoping rod to the desired length to reach the window.
- Wet the mop attachment with the window cleaning solution and gently scrub the window surface.
- Rinse the attachment with clean water and continue until the window is clean.
- Dry the window using a microfiber cloth or squeegee for a streak-free finish.
It is important to be mindful of low-hanging wires when using a telescoping rod. Always be aware of your surroundings to prevent accidents and damage to property.
Hiring Professional Window Cleaners
Cleaning hard-to-reach windows can be a challenging and potentially dangerous task if you lack experience and confidence. In such cases, it is strongly recommended to hire professional window cleaners. These experts have the necessary knowledge, experience, and tools to clean your windows thoroughly and safely.
One reputable company that offers professional window cleaning services is Window Genie. They specialize in cleaning hard-to-reach windows and guarantee crystal clear panes without any streaks or smudges. By entrusting your window cleaning needs to these experts, you can have peace of mind knowing that your windows will be maintained professionally.
Regular window cleaning is essential to keep your windows clean, functional, and bright. If you are unable to clean the outside windows on your own, companies like Evergreen Window Cleaning and Home Maintenance can provide assistance. Their window cleaning technicians have years of experience and can help you maintain and enhance the exterior of your home.
cleaning hard-to-reach windows requires careful planning, proper equipment, and safety precautions. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can confidently tackle the task of cleaning your outside windows that are difficult to reach. However, if you are unsure or if your property has challenging access, it is always best to rely on professional window cleaners to ensure a thorough and safe cleaning process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean outside windows that are too high?
If you find yourself in need of cleaning outside windows that are too high, an effective solution is to utilize a telescoping rod with a mop attachment. This method offers a safe and efficient way to clean those hard-to-reach windows without having to leave the ground. By extending the rod to the necessary length, you can easily reach and clean the exterior of windows, ensuring they remain crystal clear and spotless.
How do you clean outside of windows you can t reach from inside?
When it comes to cleaning windows that are out of reach from inside, professional window cleaning companies have several options. One method commonly used is employing telescopic water-fed poles, which allow the cleaners to reach high up windows from the ground. Although these poles can be expensive, they provide an effective and efficient solution for maintaining the cleanliness of windows in inaccessible locations. Alternatively, professional window cleaners can also utilize abseiling techniques to access difficult-to-reach areas or utilize aerial platforms such as scissor lifts or cradles fixed to roof bolts. These versatile approaches ensure that even the most hard-to-reach windows can be effectively cleaned and maintained.
How do you clean 20 feet high windows?
Cleaning windows that are 20 feet high requires careful preparation and the right tools. First, gather all the necessary equipment like a bucket, cleaning solution, brush/sponge, and an extension pole. Next, spray down the window using a hose to remove any loose dirt or debris. Mix a few drops of the cleaning solution with water in the bucket and dip the brush or sponge into it. With the help of the extension pole, reach the window and gently scrub it using the brush or sponge. Finally, rinse the window thoroughly with the hose to remove any remaining residue or cleaning solution. With proper equipment and technique, even high windows can be effectively and safely cleaned.
1. What are some effective methods or tools for cleaning outside windows that are out of reach?
When it comes to cleaning outside windows that are out of reach, there are a few effective methods and tools that can be used. One option is to use a telescoping window cleaning pole, which can be extended to reach high windows. These poles usually have a brush or sponge attachment at the end to scrub the windows, and they often come with a squeegee attachment to remove the water and leave the windows streak-free.
Another effective method is to use a window cleaning robot. These devices are designed specifically for cleaning windows, and they are equipped with suction cups or magnets to attach to the glass. Once attached, the robot moves along the surface of the window, scrubbing and squeegeeing it clean. This can be a convenient option for windows that are high up or difficult to access. However, it’s important to note that using a window cleaning robot requires a power source and proper setup to ensure safety while it’s in operation.