Pella sliding windows are a popular choice for many homeowners in Omaha, Lincoln and the surrounding areas due to their functionality and modern design. But just like any other type of window, sliding windows require regular cleaning to maintain their appearance and functionality.
How to Clean Sliding Windows
Materials Needed:
- Soft-bristled brush
- Cleaning solution of your choice
- Soap solution: mix one teaspoon of liquid soup with one quart of warm water
- Vinegar solution: mix half a cup of vinegar with a quart of water
- For best results: Use an ammonia-free window cleaner like AJ Funk & Co’s Sparkle Commercial Glass Cleaner (the original purple formula).
- Squeegee
- Microfiber cloth or chamois
Step 1
Open the Window
Unlock the window by locating the locks on the sides of the sashes. Fully open the window to allow easy access to both sides of the glass as well as the tracks along the top and bottom of the frame.
Step 2
Taking out The Window
Lift the window up and out to disengage it from the bottom track. Tilt the bottom of the window toward you until it clears the frame. Lay it flat on the ground. Do the same for the other window.
Step 3
Remove Debris
Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any debris, dust, or cobwebs from the frame and tracks of the window.
Step 4
Clean the Window
Repeat steps 4 through 7 for both sides of the windows.
Spread your cleaner of choice on the window. If using a soapy or vinegar solution, use a sponge or cloth to soak the glass. If using a glass cleaner in a spray bottle, spray it across the window. Regardless of which solution you use, allow it to sit for a few minutes to loosen up dirt and grime.
Step 5
Scrub the Glass
Using the soft-bristled brush, gently scrub the glass in a circular motion. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can scratch or damage the glass.
Step 6
Rinse the Window
Using a squeegee, start at the top of the window and pull the cleaning solution down towards the bottom of the window. Wipe the squeegee clean after each pass. Once you have removed all of your cleaning solution from the window, use a microfiber cloth or chamois to wipe the remaining water from the glass.
Step 7
Dry the Window
Use a microfiber cloth or chamois to dry the window and prevent streaks or water spots from forming.
Step 8
Clean the Frame
Using a cloth or sponge and your preferred cleaning solution, clean the frame of the window. For stuck on dirt, allow the solution to sit momentarily before breaking it up with your brush.
Step 9
Clean the Tracks
Wipe the tracks your window uses to slide back and forth with a cloth or sponge. Use your cleaning solutions and brush to break up any caked on dirt or debris.
Step 10
Reinstall The Sashes
Once the frame, tracks and windows are clean and dry, insert the top part of the sash into the frame and rotate the bottom part of the sash into place. Slide the window and lock it to make sure it operates and fits correctly.
Regular cleaning not only keeps your Pella windows looking good but functioning properly. Sliding windows depend on their tracks to move back and forth. When those become clogged with dirt or debris it can not only make sliding harder, but cause damage to your windows. Luckily cleaning your windows semi-regularly using this guide is low cost and low effort.