4 Causes of Dirty Windows

by Commercial Window CleaningWindow cleaning
Window cleaner cleaning dirty windows

Did you know that the more you clean your dirty windows, they likelier they are to last and hold its value?  For this reason, every property owner should have their windows cleaned regularly.  Of course the frequency is dependent on several factors.  One of the main factors relating to the weather and environmental conditions concurrent with the location of the property. 

Many residential and commercial property owners clean their windows only to find out that in the next month, it has returned to its previous dirty state.  Here are four reasons why this occurs, and at sometimes faster rates than expected.  

1. Wind can kick up dirt and dust, which will then cling to the exterior, adding to the appearance of dirt.

Jupiter Window Cleaner

Wind can kick up dirt and dust, which  will then cling to the exterior, adding to the appearance of dirt.

If you have home air commercial offices in vastly different locations, you may notice the degree of dirty windows will differ from one location to another.  For example, you may have an office surrounded by other buildings and offices, which may in turn shield and protect your windows from becoming dirty.  On the other hand, dirt and other air particles may have direct access to your home that is in open land or near the ocean. 

Many residential and commercial property owners clean their windows only to find out that in the next month, it has returned to its previous dirty state.  Here are four reasons why this occurs, and at sometimes faster rates than expected.  

2. Pollution is another large contributing element in which the homes location is a big factor to dirty windows.

Pollution is another large contributing element in which the homes location is a big factor to dirty windows. 

South Florida is filled with pollutants that can build up on window exteriors over time. Particle pollutants, smoke, such as airborne soot, mold pores, and pollen, are especially causes of dirty windows.  Especially if your home or business is located in an area with high levels of pollution.

Also, air pollution levels in all areas of the country typically increase during the winter, because cold dry, dense air traps pollution in particles and leaves them suspended in the air instead of blowing them away, as warmer, faster-moving air tends to. Rain also falls less often during the winter months, and rain naturally rinses pollution particles out of the air.

For this reason, your windows may become covered with airborne pollutants faster during the winter months, no matter where you are located in the country.

3. Untrained Window Cleaners may not ideal to keeping your windows clean.

At Olaf’s Window cleaning, we ensure to diligently train all  employees to clean windows using a specific company process and technique. This ensures that every window we clean is spotless and streak-free. Unfortunately, I have witnessed other window cleaners that do not clean dirty windows with such diligently and effectiveness. 

One do the biggest mistakes other window cleaners make is using the wrong products. This is also a contributing factor to streaky Windows. Utilizing a window cleaning agent that leaves behind a streaky residue can have a tacky finish that dirt and pollution particles readily stick to.

4. Hard water can cause your windows to become dirtier.

Jupiter Window Cleaner Cleaning Windows

Some property owners and regularly rinse their windows with water in between window cleanings in order to help keep them cleaner longer.   For some, it’s a great idea. For others, we don’t recommend it. This is especially the case if your property contains hard water.  Rinsing windows with hard water may cause your dirty windows to become dirtier. Refraining from rinsing them in general may keep them cleaner.

Hard water contains minerals, including calcium and magnesium, that can leave a chalky coating on windows after the water evaporates.

So, unless your windows are covered on dirt and debris, rinsing them with hard water between professional window cleanings can make them dirtier instead of keeping them cleaner.

While it is difficult to fully control the amount of  dirt, debris, and pollution surrounding your home or business, it is quite simple to meditate the problem with Olaf’s Window Cleaning. It’s safe to say that dirty windows are our area of expertise. We have been fighting the good fight with dirty windows since 2013 and will continue to do so while serving the Treasure Coast community. Schedule your appointment today by calling 772-204-3067.

Jupiter Window Cleaning Dos and Don’ts for Homeowners

by Commercial Window CleaningWindow cleaning
Window Cleaner in Jupiter Cleaning windows

Are you thinking about hiring a local Jupiter window cleaning company? Maybe you are planning on selling your home. Or you intend to host guests at an intimate gathering. Perhaps you simply want to enjoy the beautiful view that awaits you outside your windows. These are all great reasons to call Olaf’s Window Cleaning.

Having clean windows will make your entire home sparkle! Your windows are a focal point, in and outside of your home, and clean windows can elevate the appearance of your home. The opposite is true, too: dirty windows can make your entire home appear less clean.

With that said, it’s safe to conclude that clean windows are ideal for an all-around clean home. For this reason, we have put together a couple of dos and don’ts to help maintain your home’s windows.

Do Clean the Interiors

Jupiter Window Cleaner

Here is a typical scenario we see with several of our Jupiter window cleaning customers. The client hires our team to clean the exterior of the windows. However, for the interior, the customers either clean it themselves or assigns the task to their housekeeper.  

It is cost-effective in the short run but can prove costly in the long run. For example, many homeowners will use products such as paper towels to clean the interior of their windows. Paper towels have a tough surface that can easily attract dust or scratches your glass. This can in turn affect the longevity of your windows. 

Our local Jupiter windows cleaning company will use safe professional-grade products to clean your glass and windows. For example, instead of paper towels or newspapers, we use microfiber cloths and squeegees to produce sparkling and see-through windows. 

Don't clean the windows first.

Pressure Washer in Jupiter, Florida

Most Jupiter window cleaning companies will suggest homeowners clean their windows last if they have scheduled any other services around the home. Such services can include landscaping, power washing, and painting to name a few. 

Why? You’d be amazed at how much dirt and dust your windows attract, even for minor maintenance projects. If you are having any construction or remodeling done, ask your contractor to tape and cover your windows. Drywall mud, paint, and even abrasive chemicals may end up on your windows.  

Do schedule our Jupiter window cleaning company last so that your windows can remain clean for longer!

Don’t wait for Mother Nature.

It’s expected that here in Jupiter, rain can be a constant element in our lives. One thing we’ve found is that oftentimes, homeowners rely on the rain to clean their windows after dirt, dust, and salt have accumulated.

You might think that this week’s downpour will solve all your window cleaning problems, but we say, “not so fast.” Rain will only make dirty windows dirtier — it’ll roll right off a clean window. 

The same can be said for oceanfront properties. If you live on Jupiter Island, the moisture from the marine layer isn’t helping dissolve salt or sand on your windows — it’s cementing it into a layer of grime. To fully take advantage of your ocean view, your home may need more frequent window cleaning.  Click here to learn more.  

We use gentle cleaning products. Not harsh and store-bought products.
Abrasive products can damage your windows, cause streaks, and weaken the glass. Harsh chemicals from strong products can pollute the air in your office.

Do Pay Attention to Hard Water Stains

Glass Cleaner in Jupiter Florida Cleaning Glass

Hard water deposits minerals on glass and other surfaces. This may leave white circles and marks which can be difficult to remove. We recommend that homeowners do not try to take these off on their own. Without the proper tools, it can be very easy to scratch glass.

Our Jupiter window cleaning team can safely remove hard water stains and other mineral deposits.

To learn more about the effects of hard water on your windows click here to read a previous post.

Need to schedule window cleaning with our local team? Call Olaf’s Window Cleaning today at 772-204-3067. Don’t forget to ask how you can save hundreds with our routine cleaning plan. 

 

The benefits of hiring an established commercial window cleaning company.

by Commercial Window CleaningWindow cleaning
Commercial Window Cleaning in Tequesta, Florida

The benefits of hiring an established commercial window cleaning company.

Let’s face it! Nobody loves dirty windows. But with commercial businesses, dirty windows happen to be a common problem. This is especially the case if the building is located near the road or highway. And think about all the people walking in and out of the establishment, touching the glass as they pass through. Then again, if you are already an on-going customer, you may not be too worried considering will be there next week, and the week after, and the week after next. If you are not a commercial window cleaning customer, you may think it’s time to hire professionals. We repeat, hire the professionals! Here are the top reasons why you should hire a professional commercial window cleaning company vs. Joe Shmoe down the road.

Now we are not putting down Joe Shmoe. After all, that’s how we got started. Those were humble beginnings. But for those looking for a commercial window cleaning company with all the credentials, then keep reading.

Simply put, we have insurance!

If hiring a commercial window cleaning company with insurance is important to you, then look our way! There are several risks that come with the job. The most obvious ones are associated with height. We are at risk when a team member is standing on a tall ladder, or a small balcony as he or she cleans your windows. In the unfortunate event that someone gets injured, then we are covered, and so are you!

Other accidents are also liable to happen, as with any other commercial window cleaning company. For example, there can be glass and hardware breakage. Luckily for us, we have never had any serious injuries or breakage on the job. But it’s better to be safe than sorry. With reliable insurance, you will know that our company will be responsible and ready to take charge of any losses.

Our commercial window cleaning company pre-screens and trains all employees.

New Windows with a commercial window cleaning company

Not only do we do background checks, but we also ask for character references. Some employees have been working with the company since the beginning. This means that they are also well-trained to provide service at the highest standard. When you open your doors to our window cleaners, you will know that your equipment and sensitive files are safe!

We have quality commercial window cleaning equipment.

window film cleaning supplies

Equipment can determine the quality of the window cleaning. A bigger and more established window cleaning company will have the purchasing power to obtain the best equipment. We have it all; brushes, ladders, wash pads, pressure washers, high-quality squeegees, and more.
We use gentle cleaning products. Not harsh and store-bought products.
Abrasive products can damage your windows, cause streaks, and weaken the glass. Harsh chemicals from strong products can pollute the air in your office.

We have the best customer service on the treasure coast.

Many smaller commercial window cleaning companies are running the show on their own. Again, we have been there and understand how that can be a completely different experience for the customer. 

Our established commercial window cleaning company has the ability to hire a customer service representative. This means every time you call, there is someone there to answer, or return the call immediately. With a smaller one or two men company, this may not always be the case. Oftentimes, calls are either returned after the workday, between jobs, or while working. This can lead to misunderstandings, misinformation, and more.

Customer service is crucial when you want to order commercial window cleaning services. Nothing is more frustrating than trying to schedule service and not being able to reach your commercial window cleaning company.

To work with the best of the best, give us a call at 772-204-3067. We will ensure you won’t be dissatisfied!

How Hard Water Could be Negatively Impacting Your Life and Windows!

by UncategorizedWindow cleaning
Hard water and software difference

Water is essential for drinking, washing, and bathing. That is obvious! However, what is less obvious is the side effects of hard water. Have you ever enjoyed a nice long shower but still felt dirty? If so, you may have been the victim of hard water. Ok. Enough with the dramatics! But in all seriousness, if you want to learn more about hard water, then keep reading.

What exactly is hard water?

According to the USGS, “it’s the amount of dissolved calcium and magnesium in the water. When hard water is heated, such as in a home heater, solid deposits of calcium carbonate can form”.

How to spot hard water.

Start with the dishes. Ever notice the spots on dishes after you wash them? When dishes come out of the dishwater with a cloudy white film, you know hardened water has infiltrated your pipes.

Beware! Hardened water can also damage clothing, cause colors to fade, and also leave a film that leaves clothes feeling dirty.

Here is another way to spot hard water issues in your home.

The soap does not latter but turns into soap scum instead. Again, this will leave a dirty-feeling film on you.

Have you been living with this issue for a while?

Then you might notice the porcelain of your sinks, tubs, and toilets start to rust. What a shame! Who wants to see their beautiful porcelain rust!

Are there any health implications?

Take a breather! We are glad to report that there are none. There are even studies that correlate drinking hardened water and reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease.

How might you ask?

This is due to the amount of calcium and magnesium that may be lacking from your diet?

Is Hard Water Causing my Windows to dirty?

Jupiter Window Cleaner - cleaning windows with hard water stains

Ummm, yes! Think of the dirty and cloudy-looking film it leaves on you, your clothes, and your dishes. There is no doubt that the use of hard water will leave your windows looking just as cloudy and dirty. This of course will affect your curb appeal, reduces the amount of natural light in your home, and obstructs your beautiful lakefront or oceanfront view.

It gets worse! The film often mixes with pollution, leading to oxidation. After the stains oxidize, you can no longer clean the windows normally. You may have to use some hard chemicals such as ammonia to remove those stains.

This is where we come in! Put down those chemicals and let the professionals handle this. We will hand-buff out the windows to eliminate the residue, smooth the glass, and make it harder for other particles to stick to the surface.

Treating the water!

At this point, you may have realized that you have a serious case of hard water. Or perhaps, you have decided it is something you never want to deal with! Regardless of which category you stand-in, it’s important to know how to treat it.

Here are 7 steps to reducing or eliminating hard water.

  1. Boil “Temporary” Hard Water
  2. Remove Soap Scum Using a Hardened Water Cleaning Aid
  3. Use Washing Soda When Doing the Laundry
  4. Apply Some Distilled White Vinegar to Remove Stains
  5. Consider a Magnetic Water Conditioner
  6. Install a Faucet Water Softener
  7. Invest in a Whole House Water Softening System

Click here to find in-depth information on these solutions. 

The Benefits of Commercial Window Cleaning Services in South Florida.

by Window cleaning
Commercial Window Cleaning Services - Glass

If you want to increase the aesthetic appearance of your commercial property, then you might have considered hiring a professional for commercial window cleaning services. After all, it is a prime solution to enhance the curb appeal. 

Commercial customers of Olaf’s Window Cleaning know that our team of professionals along with our high-tech equipment will efficiently and effectively clean your windows so that they appear crisp, clear, and smear-free. 

But there are more advantages of commercial window cleaning than a beautiful curb appeal. Here are some of the top benefits of utilizing our commercial window cleaning services.

mirror cleaners palm city

We highly recommend our commercial window cleaning services as a way of promoting good health.

Ultimately, a clean office is a healthy office.  Remove the dust and dirt that glass panes tend to accumulate by cleaning your windows.  Your employees who suffer from allergies or asthma will thank you for it.  Not to mention, studies show that people are more likely to work harder in clean environments.   Here is an excellent article explaining why Workplace Cleanliness is Key.

When considering workplace health, another essential factor to take into consideration is inside air quality (IAQ).

Commercial Window Cleaning Services - Glass

The United States department of labor states that “the quality of indoor air inside offices, schools, and other workplaces is important not only for workers’ comfort but also for their health”. 

They go further to describe how the inside air quality affects a person’s health, comfort, and ability to work.  Factors such as temperature, exposure, poor ventilation, humidity, mold, or exposure to other chemicals, dirt, and grime, all contribute towards low IAQ.  Using our commercial window cleaning services helps to mitigate the risk.

Our commercial window cleaning services come with a licensed and insured team.

Additionally, we are equipped with professional tools, equipment, and training.  All this to say, we are a prime resource for businesses.  

We are knowledgeable about how to prep an area to prevent accidents, such as falling off a ladder or managing delicate glass from chandeliers (chandelier cleaning is also a part of our glass cleaning services).  For this reason, we do not recommend managers and business owners ask their employees to clean their windows.  It can prove to be a liability.

Glass Cleaning in Jupiter Florida

You only have one chance to make a first impression. And one of the first things that customers will notice about an office building is appearance and cleanliness.

Appearance is one of the most important matters in business.  It is a reflection of how the office operates.  It’s the reason why you ask your employees to dress professionally.  A building and its windows are no different.  Consider the windows a small but important element to the overall appearance of the building.  It’s comparable to say, the shirt or shoes you wear when you head to the office.  Clean windows help to create a positive and lasting impression with your customers or clients.

We hope to have provided you with in-depth information on the benefits of our commercial window cleaning services.  If you want to learn more please feel free to call our office at 772-204-3067.

At Olaf's Window Cleaning, we offer so much more than commercial window cleaning services.

Here is an extensive list of all the commercial services we provide.  

Whether your commercial property is a local plaza, facility, or storefront our team at Olaf’s Window Cleaning will ensure your windows remain clean.  We also provide on-going scheduled service at a discount.  This allows you to pre-schedule all of the cleanings for the year, one less task on your monthly to-do list.

Written by: Ronise Da Luz

The Benefits of Solar Window Film and How to Clean It.

by Window cleaning
window film cleaning supplies

Have you considered installing window film on your windows? If so, it may be an excellent option for a more comfortable and affordable home. Window film helps control the temperature and ensure your home or business is warmer during the Florida winters and cooler in the summer. 

If efficiency is what you are looking for and you want to avoid the high cost of replacement windows  then window film might be your best choice. This low-cost energy-saving option is one of the easiest ways to lower your energy bills.  Of course, this is considering you have chosen the right product and it’s installed correctly.

Choose the best window film product.

I am sure you have heard the saying, “you get what you pay for.” It could not be more true when it comes to choosing a window film product. For maximum efficiency throughout the year, select a high-quality window film. Note that cheap DIY window tinting will eventually start to bubble, peel, delaminate, craze, crack, and fail to provide the benefits you expect. Additionally, many companies offer professional window film with a 10-year to a lifetime warranty.  That alone is worth hiring a professional. 

How To Clean Windows That Have Solar Window Film.

Residential window cleaner in Jupiter Florida

If you have chosen to install solar window films, the next step is to learn to clean them correctly. After all, an investment such as window films requires upkeep to maintain its effectiveness. The second you notice they have lost the brand new look, call Olaf’s Window Cleaning. We have experience in cleaning all types of windows. However, for those who prefer to DIY, then continue reading. 

The first step is to ensure you clean the windows in compliance with the window film installer and the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Do not clean window films that were installed in the last 30 days. Cleaning within the first 30 days, may affect the fit and look of the window film. 

***Note that most window films require cleaning about once a month.  More than that may be overkill.

Here are some general guidelines for keeping your window films clean.

Do not use hard window cleaning products.

window film cleaning supplies

Examples of Hard window cleaning products and equipment include:

  • Cheap or rough paper towels/newspapers 
  • Baking soda or cleansers made with baking soda
  • Scouring pads
  • Brushes

Harsh and abrasive cleaners or equipment can scratch or cut your window film. Instead, use superior window cleaning products such as:

  • A high-quality window cleaning scrubber: look for one with a microfiber pad or sponge on one side and a squeegee on the other. 
  • Washable and reusable microfiber cloths.
  • High-end paper towels. Click here for a list of the best paper towels of 2021.
  • A squeegee.

The first step is to ensure you clean the windows in compliance with the window film installer and the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Do not clean window films that were installed in the last 30 days. Cleaning within the first 30 days, may affect the fit and look of the window film. 

***Note that most window films require cleaning about once a month.  More than that may be overkill.

Here are some general guidelines for keeping your window films clean.

Use ammonia-free cleaning solution

solar window film for commercial properties

We recommend using mild liquid dish soap and warm water to create an effective cleaning solution for your window film. Fill a 32 oz spray bottle with warm water and add four- to five-drops of mild dish soap. Give it a swirl or shake to mix it up.

Let’s get to cleaning!

Here are the recommended steps for DIY solar window film cleaning. 

  1. Dip your scrubber, scrubber, cloth, or towel in water and wring it. 
  2. Thoroughly spray the window surface with your cleaning solution. Ensure to spread the soapy solution throughout the windows.
  3. Wipe the windows with a scrubber/towel until it is clean.
  4. Use a squeegee, working your way from top to bottom in horizontal lines for a smooth window. 
  5. Use a dry, microfiber towel to wipe away any remaining water lines.  

Again, if you don’t have time to wash your windows or would rather golf course or play tennis, then give us a call at 772-204-3067. We would be happy to take over this task for you. 

Written by: Ronise Da Luz

commercial windows in Jupiter

Clean Windows: How to Remove Sticky Residue From Holiday Decorations.

by Window cleaning
commercial windows in Jupiter

Decorating a home, restaurant, or office space for Christmas and New Years’ is a fun way to showcase your holiday spirit. But now the season is over and it’s time to remove and pack it all up. Some decorative items may require little to no effort to do so. However, for others, like window stickers, that leave behind goo residue, a little more elbow grease may be needed. Fortunately, there are several quick and easy solutions to remove the stubborn leftover goo so that you may have clean windows.

Scrape it off for clear and clean windows.

Try using a straight edge razor and gently scrape the built-up goo away. Depending on the amount of leftover, you may need to change the blade out several times. A dull blade won’t scrape as well. 

If you don’t have a razor at home, don’t worry! Razors are quite affordable, ranging from $0.99 and $3.49, and are available in nearby stores such as Staples and Home Depot.

When you are finished, wipe the glass with a damp cloth for clear and clean windows.

Spray away the stickiness

If the sticky residue remains, use a commercial window cleaner designed to remove adhesives. We recommend Goo Gone. It is a fast working, surface-safe sticker remover. It’s a powerful substance that also removes gum, bird droppings, tree sap, spray paint, brake dust, bumper stickers, and asphalt. The solution contains citrus oils, which leave behind a pleasant scent.

A 12 oz bottle averages between $5.00 – $6.00 and can be found in Target and Autozone.

Use Rubbing Alcohol or Vinegar for clean windows

Jupiter Screen Cleaner

For Clean windows, try spraying rubbing alcohol or vinegar. This will spare you a trip to the store if you have these items lying around the home. Rubbing alcohol or vinegar may soften and loosen the goo enough so that you can scrape it away with your razor or a credit card. These substances are also used to clean windows.  

Use Lacquer Thinner

As a last resort to achieving goo-free and clean windows, try using lacquer thinner on the adhesive. Lacquer thinner, also known as cellulose thinner, is usually a mixture of solvents able to dissolve several different resins or plastics used in modern lacquer. However, use this sparingly and in a well-ventilated area. For additional safety precautions, use gloves!

1 Quart of lacquer thinner ranges from $6.00 – $8.00 and can be found in Home Depot and Walmart. 

Does this sound like a lot? If you prefer to have a professional window cleaner take care of removing your holiday decoration, then we are the company for the job! Call us and we will schedule you immediately! 

 

Written by: Ronise Da Luz

Residential Window Cleaning

Our Jupiter Window Cleaning Customer asked, “do I really need to clean my windows regularly”? We say, “sure”! And here is why.

by Window cleaning
Residential Window Cleaning

Now, let’s get to it.  Our Jupiter window cleaning customer, let’s call her Ms. Jane, is one of our most frequent customers.  She was getting her windows cleaned every 3 months. 

Side note: we offer customers who sign up for a weekly, monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually window cleaning a discount. The more we clean the more you save.

Back to Ms. Jane.  She noticed that her water-front view got a little foggy by the second month after we serviced her windows.  

Of course, if you have a waterfront property, you know that the ocean breeze carries salt deposits on the surfaces of your home and windows.  Naturally they built up and before our 3 month cleaning, and she was well overdue.  She asked us, should I clean in between cleanings?  And we say, “absolutely”.  

The cleaner the windows, the less likely it will experience corrosive effects of dirt, moisture, and continents.  All in all, a regular cleaning of your windows will protect  your investment.  So if you want them to last, or you plan to resell your home, keeping your windows clean will be benefit your pockets.

Furthermore, window cleaning, and screen cleaning, will keep out the pesky insects, spiders, and other bugs that gather around the window frames and make their way into your beautiful home.

It’s important to note that it’s more than just keeping your glass clean, but the screen as well.  

 

 

Another side note: at Olaf’s Window Cleaning, we always clean the screens, tracks, and frames of each window.

Residential Window Cleaning

If you have paid close attention to your windows, you may have noticed that sometimes, the screens get dirtier a little faster than the glass. That’s because dirt and other particles will build upon the screen and then transfer to the glass windows. 

 

Also worth noting, the area you are in will affect how quickly your windows get dirty.  Jane, for example, our Jupiter window cleaning customer, lives on a waterfront property.  The outside of her windows needs a good cleaning every 2 months.  You may find yourself in a similar predicament if you live in a high traffic area, where road dusk is kicked up.  Additionally, if there are trees that overhang or are near your home, the dirtier your windows will be. That is because dust and pollen will accumulate on your window screens and glass.  

 

Lastly, let’s consider construction.  Are your neighbors getting a new roof? Is there road work occurring nearby?  These factors also have an effect on the frequency of service needed.

 

You may be wondering, what is it that you can do to negate this? To begin with, wiping your screens with a damp towel, or lightly brushing off the screens in between cleanings will minimize the dirt.  As we have previously mentioned, the dirt that builds up on your screens will transfer to your windows.  Oftentimes, that transfer occurs when the wind builds overnight moisture that collects on the screens and onto the windows. 

 

However, If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of cleaning your windows, we say change the frequency.

Residential Window Cleaning

Ms. Jane used to clean the outside of her windows every three months, but that has now changed to Every two months.  

 

Your home may  be in a similar location to Ms. Jane’s, or perhaps, you live in a very quiet neighborhood with no construction or surrounding trees.  You might then only have your windows cleaned every 4-6 months. Every customer is different, but we can advise you based on your home’s location and surroundings, or other personal factors.  

We have explored the pros of having a regular window cleaning service in this article, and we hope to have answered any of your questions.  If you have a similar inquiry, we’d love to hear about it.  So feel free to send us a message at [email protected] or call us at 772-204-3067 to let us know what you think.