Common Mistakes to Avoid When Pressure Washing Your Windows

When it comes to cleaning your windows, pressure washing is often one of the most efficient and effective methods you can employ. The water jets from a high-pressure washer can strip away layers of built-up dirt, grime and other unwanted substances from the surfaces of your windows. However, despite the ease and convenience that it offers, pressure washing can often go wrong if not done properly. In this post, we take a closer look at some of the most common mistakes that homeowners make when pressure washing their windows, so you can avoid them.

Using Too Much Pressure

Windows are delicate fixtures, and proper care must be taken when pressure washing them to ensure that you aren’t using too much pressure. Excessive pressure can cause damage to the window’s seals or even crack the glass in more extreme cases, especially if your windows are older or already compromised. At the same time, it is also important to understand the differences between pressure washing windows, driveways or siding. Most windows cannot withstand the same level of pressure that is often used to clean driveways and siding, and you will need to use a lower pressure setting for your windows.

Using the Wrong Nozzle or Attachment

The type of pressure washing nozzle or attachment that you use to pressure wash your windows will also have varying impacts on the glass surface. Nozzles with a narrow spray pattern, such as 0° or 15° tips, typically concentrate the water too intensely. This can lead to cracks or etching on the surface of your windows. For pressure washing windows, it may be better instead to use a nozzle with a wider spray angle, such as a 40° or a low-pressure fan tip, which can distribute the pressure more evenly and gently across the surface of the window.

Not Checking for Existing Damage

One of the most crucial mistakes that homeowners make when pressure washing their windows is failing to check for existing damage. While they may seem harmless at a glance, small cracks and warped frames will often be worsened when subjected to the high-pressure conditions of pressure washing. The force of the water can cause cracks to spread or allow moisture to seep into the frame, potentially causing severe and long-term damage to your windows.

Need New Windows? Valley Windows Can Help

While regular window cleaning and maintenance can keep your windows in good shape and ensure that their lifespan is maximised, even the most well-maintained windows will eventually succumb to wear and tear. If your windows are in need of replacement, it is important to get new windows from a reputable supplier so you can rest assured about their quality. Valley Windows is the number one manufacturer and supplier of custom windows in Melbourne, and we have an extensive catalogue of window styles and designs to suit your needs. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help with your window needs!

Image Source: This Old House