Smooth operation of windows and doors requires regular cleaning to remove debris that could become trapped and damage the glass or the frame. Milgard windows and doors are easy to keep clean, thanks to the materials used in the construction of the door. Use the FAQs here to learn how you can easily and quickly clean your windows and doors so they remain in great shape for as long as possible.
How Can a Window Cleaner be Made?
Window cleaners can be made easily with common ingredients you likely already have at home. This enables you to make a safe cleaner that can be used around children and pets, as well as an effective cleaner that’s easy to use. You’ll need a spray bottle, water, vinegar, and dish soap. Pour 2 cups of water, ¼ cup of vinegar and ½ teaspoon of dish soap into the spray bottle, then shake to combine ingredients. This can be used on the glass for your windows and doors for a streak-free finish.
How Can the Window Sill be Cleaned?
Debris trapped in the window sill can cause the window to be more difficult to open and close. Over time, it can also damage the window sill. Instead, sprinkle baking soda across the window sill. Then, spray with vinegar and use a foam brush to get most of the debris out of the window sill. Go over this with a towel to remove anything that’s left, then rinse with water.
How Can the Patio Door Track be Cleaned?
If the patio door is still moving easily, the track can simply be cleaned using a vacuum. This should be done more frequently to stop the accumulation of debris inside the track. Any loose debris will be easily removed by the vacuum before it has the chance to become stuck and impact the function of the patio door. If the debris is not coming up with the vacuum or the sliding glass door is not operating properly, the next step is to carefully clean and lubricate the door.
How Can the Screen be Cleaned?
Screens for windows and sliding glass doors can often be cleaned just by using a lint roller. This allows you to quickly go over the screen, removing as much debris as possible. If the lint roller does not completely clean the screen, try using a wet brush with soap and water to gently wash the screen. Then, rinse with water and dry with a soft cloth. This should be done carefully to avoid damaging the screen.
How Can You Clean and Lubricate a Sliding Glass Door?
Cleaning and lubricating a sliding glass door is an easy process that should take about 10 minutes to complete. Make sure you have all supplies ready before you begin. You’ll need safety glasses and gloves, a non-abrasive household cleaner, a silicone lubricant, cleaning rags, steel wool, and a wet/dry vacuum.
Start by closing the sliding glass door and vacuuming the track area to remove as much debris as possible. Open the door and vacuum the rest of the track. Wipe the track with the non-abrasive household cleaner and towel to remove any debris that did not come off while vacuuming the track. Repeat this on the other side of the track as well.
Once as much debris is removed as possible, inspect the track on both sides to ensure it’s in good shape. You’ll want to check the round spot of the track the roller contacts to look for any built-up debris or rough spots. These can be removed with steel wool if necessary. After this is done, use a silicone lubricant to lubricate the track. Test the results by opening and closing the door a few times to ensure it operates smoothly.
How Can You Clean the Glass in a Window or Door?
Cleaning the glass in a window or door is a fast and easy process that should only take about 5 minutes per window or door. To start, you’ll need safety glasses and gloves, a glass cleaner, mild soap, cleaning pad, paper towel, soft cloth, and a soft brush. You can use a homemade streak-free glass cleaner for your windows and doors.
To start, use a soft brush and cleaning pad to remove any loose debris. Then, you’ll wash the surface with warm water, mild soap, and a cloth. Avoid using a dry cloth as this can scratch the finish. Clean the glass carefully with a dry glass cleaner or soap and water using a soft cloth. After cleaning, make sure there is no condensation inside the window panes.
What Should be Avoided When Cleaning Doors and Windows?
There are certain products that can damage the glass, frame, or insulating seal of your windows or patio doors. Never use petroleum-based cleaners, caustic chemicals, razor blades, putty knives, abrasive pads or high-pressure water hoses to clean Milgard doors and windows. When you’re cleaning the doors and windows, make sure you do not remove any grease or lubricant that’s found on hardware such as rollers, locks, or casement and awning operators. The grease or lubricant is necessary to ensure the hardware works as intended.
What Happens if Cleaning Doesn’t Seem to Work?
The cleaning steps outlined here should help you keep your doors and windows clean. However, if there is condensation inside the window panes that you cannot seem to clean, it might be because the seal on the glass is no longer functioning properly. You’ll need to contact Milgard about their warranty to have these window or door panels replaced. This is not something that happens frequently, but it is something to keep an eye out for.
Using the information here, you can keep your windows and doors cleaned without spending a ton of time working on them. More frequent cleaning ensures there is not much built up when you do need to clean your windows and doors, making the task much easier in the long run. Take care of your doors and windows to ensure they’ll last as long as possible for you.
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