Winter’s sunny days often draw attention to neglected parts of the building, and dirty windows can be highlighted if they’re not part of your winter maintenance strategy. Not only do clean windows improve the aesthetic of your building and help leave a positive impression, but they can also help increase productivity by letting in more natural light.

Here are some of the steps you can take to keep your windows clean through the winter months:

• Plan to clean them regularly through the season to avoid the accumulation of dirt, which can cause damage to your windows and make it harder to clean them in the spring.
• Check the weather to pick a day when cleaning makes sense. Below-freezing temperatures, windy conditions, or impending snow will not make the job easy or enjoyable.
• Ensure that you are dressed appropriately for the outside portion of the task, using PPE, warm clothing, and waterproof gloves to stay protected from the cold.
• Avoid using hot water on cold windows, as a dramatic temperature differential can cause the windows to crack. Use warm water to get the job done.
• Also, avoid using water-based cleaners, like Windex, which can freeze when the temperatures get low. Vinegar is less likely to freeze and can offer an alternative through the winter.
• Use high-quality squeegees and microfibre cloths to remove the cleaning solution before it has a chance to freeze. Keep extra dry cloths available to wipe away any stray drips and avoid streaking.
• Take a proactive approach to winter mould by wiping windows daily, keeping blinds and curtains open, controlling airflow, temperature and humidity, and routinely checking for signs like black staining or accumulated condensation.
• When using a ladder, check for damage, wear non-slip soles, and have a spotter available on the ground. Ladder safety is vital when completing any job at heights.
• If you are looking to invest, today’s tools like smart glass, robotic cleaners, drones, and even tinting can help you go greener and keep your windows clean all year long.

Adding window cleaning to your winter maintenance schedule can help your business leave a positive impression, maintain a focus on cleanliness, and increase employee productivity.