Will Soft Washing Clean My Windows?

A photo of Nick Loomis, the owner of Hot Water Pressure Washing & Soft Wash, soft washing a Tallahassee home with Hardie board siding. Soft washing can clean your entire window system, including the glass, frame, sills, and even screens. For homes in humid climates, soft washing is particularly effective at removing dirt, pollen, insects, and algae. A low-pressure rinse will leave your windows clean and free from organic growth.

Best Practices: Residential Soft Washing for Exterior Windows

Maintaining your home’s exterior, including its windows, is crucial for preserving its value and appearance. Soft washing offers a gentle yet effective cleaning method. To achieve the best results and protect your windows, follow these best practices:

  • Adhere to Manufacturer Guidelines: Always consult the cleaning product’s instructions for specific dilution ratios, application methods, and safety precautions.
  • Pre-Rinse: Thoroughly rinse windows with cool water to lower glass and seal temperatures, preventing soap from drying too quickly and causing water spots.
  • Targeted Application: Apply a mild soft wash detergent to small sections, allowing it to dwell before rinsing. Avoid letting the soap dry on the glass.
  • Thorough Rinsing: Use low-pressure water to completely rinse windows, starting from the top to prevent streaks.
  • Gentle is Best: Keep water pressure of no more than 200 psi to avoid damaging window seals.

Preventing Spotting

If spotting occurs after rinsing with tap water, your area likely has hard water. Consider using purified water to prevent spots. For best results, consider a professional window cleaning after soft washing to ensure a spotless finish. Professionals often use purified water and specialized equipment for streak-free results.

Summary

Soft washing can effectively clean your home’s exterior windows. In Tallahassee, Florida, where water typically has a lower mineral content, soft washing often produces excellent results with minimal spotting. However, for those seeking a flawless finish or living in areas with varying water conditions, a professional window cleaning after the soft wash is recommended. To find your water’s mineral content, consider using a TDS meter or checking the Water Resources Mission’s water hardness map. Water Resources Mission has a map of water hardness in the United States online that you can use to find the hardness of your water supply. The map is based on data from the US Geological Survey (USGS) and shows the average water hardness for different regions of the country. To view the map, visit the Water Resources Mission website and click on the “Water Hardness Map” link. The map will show you the water hardness for your area.