As the winter approaches and heavy snowfall enters the forecast, protecting the exterior of your home from snow build-up becomes more important. Before the snow begins to fly, you should have a window protection and window cleaning plan. Your windows are susceptible to snow and ice build-up which could cause damage. Knowing how to protect the glass and proper removal methods will prevent unnecessary damage from occurring. Preserving your window integrity is possible even if you experience ice or snow on windows when you follow proper cleaning methods.
Why Snow Build-Up Is Harmful To Your Windows
Snow and ice accumulation on windows is harmful in multiple ways. Especially when left unattended for long periods, snow build-up could cause damage to window frames or glass. Accumulation can ruin the aesthetics of your home, but it can also have other negative effects like,
- Trapped moisture
- Blocking natural light
- Create thick ice layers
- Add unnecessary weight to frames
Cleaning the windows after a snowstorm will help let natural sunlight that is especially needed in the winter season and keep your home safe from more inclement weather.
Use A Soft Brush Or Broom
The first step in cleaning during the winter is to use a soft hand and soft tools. Cleaning snow and ice off your windows should never be done with wire or metal tools as these can wear on window glass and lead to replacement. A soft-bristled brush or a broom will help remove snow without causing scratches on the glass. Start from the top of the window and work your way down with the brush. This will prevent snow from getting onto cleared areas or trapped in small corners of the windows.
Apply De-icing Spray
De-icing spray can help break down ice without the need for scrapping and won’t cause discoloration to the glass. The de-icing spray is made up of water and rubbing alcohol, which will help loosen the ice sheet from the glass. This is a safer method than using hot water or an ice scraper to remove snow and ice buildup. Forcing ice off the windows could lead to shattered glass or damage to frames. Melting or loosening some of the ice will release pressure from windows that could lead to damage.
Avoid Using Salt On Window Glass
Rock salt and deicing salt are commonly used during the winter season for driveways and sidewalks. Using these products is not recommended for windows as the chemicals can damage the window glass and small granules can become trapped in-between the components, making it difficult to open and close them. Since salt is highly corrosive, it can degrade all parts of the window, increasing the likelihood of repairs.
Many homemade remedies can be used to remove ice safely. These won’t have harsh chemicals but will help break down the ice to be easier to scrape off. Some homemade deicers include:
- Lukewarm water (not hot)
- Water and rubbing alcohol
- Water and vinegar
- Using a hairdryer
Prevent Snow Build-Up With Protective Coating
If you want to save yourself time after a heavy snowstorm and prevent solid ice from forming, you can apply a protective coating to the exterior of your glass. Some sprays and coatings that are applied during window manufacturing can help repeal snow and ice. This will keep large amounts from sticking and make removal much less of a chore. Hydrophobic sprays can be sprayed on your window glass to prevent snow and ice build-up on even the largest windows.
Winter Window Cleaning From Jacob’s Ladder
If you are looking to brighten your home or want to prevent wasted time removing ice and snow from your window, schedule a window cleaning from Jacob’s Ladder. Our team can help keep your windows sparkling throughout the different seasons. The weather in Colorado can be unpredictable, but taking some precautions to protect your windows will keep your exterior from damage.
Our family-owned business is happy to serve those in our community with window cleaning and gutter cleaning. We offer a 110% satisfaction guarantee which means that if you aren’t satisfied with our work, we will do all in our power to make it right. Hiring us saves you from climbing on ladders, and creating homemade cleaning solutions, and saves you time. Sit back, relax, and let Jacob’s Ladder do the work. Schedule your window cleaning today!