Scratches on windows are a common issue that can affect both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your windows. While smaller scratches may not be visible from a distance and may not pose much of a problem, larger and more obvious scratches can cause your windows to look worn out and may even reduce the visibility through your windows. While replacing scratched windows is always an option, preventing scratches from even occurring in the first place can help you save on unnecessary expenses. In this post, we examine how you can prevent scratches, especially when cleaning your windows.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Tools
One of the most common ways that windows get scratched is when homeowner do not use the right cleaning tools to clean their windows. Certain common household cleaning tools such as rough sponges, newspapers and paper towels may be great for cleaning regular household objects and spaces but can cause unwanted damage to your windows. For instance, newspapers typically may pick up dirt that not only prevents your windows from being properly cleaned but that may also cause scratches when rubbed on your window.
To avoid the damage that inappropriate cleaning tools can cause, it is therefore important to use tools that have been designed specifically for the task to clean your windows. Such tools can include:
- Microfibre Cloths: Microfibre cloths are highly absorbed and much gentler on your window surfaces, reducing the likelihood of abrasions or scratches.
- Squeegees: The soft rubber lining of the squeegee enables you to easily wick away any excess water or cleaning solution from your window surface without causing scratches or other damage.
- Razor Blades or Abrasive Pads: As a last resort, you may sometimes need to use razor blades or abrasive pads to get rid of tougher stains from your windows. If you find yourself in such a situation, choose razor blades and abrasive pads that are designed specifically for window cleaning and take care to use the proper technique to avoid accidentally damaging your windows.
Pre-Cleaning to Remove Dirt and Debris
Another common culprit that causes scratches on your windows is dirt and debris that is rubbed on your windows during the cleaning process. To prevent this from happening, you can do some pre-cleaning by rinsing the window with water to first remove any loose dirt and debris before getting started on the actual window cleaning.
Replacing Your Windows as a Last Resort
At the end of the day, if your windows have already been scratched severely or beyond repair, your best bet might be to replace them altogether. Valley Windows is the leading manufacturer and supplier of custom windows in Melbourne and we offer a wide selection of window styles and designs for you to choose from depending on your needs and preferences. Visit our showroom today to see what we have to offer or contact us to find out more about the products and services we have available!
