Cleaning roof windows

Roof windows are an excellent addition to any home, transforming dark attics into bright, airy spaces. With roof windows, you can turn a storage room into a cozy guest room or a spacious office with a stunning view. However, to keep enjoying these benefits, regular cleaning is essential. Over time, roof windows can accumulate bird droppings, pollen, dust, and dirt. In this post, we’ll guide you through the best ways to clean your roof windows, inside and out, so you can maintain their functionality and appearance for years to come.

• Pivot roof windows
• Top-hung roof windows
• Top-third pivot roof windows​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Let’s take a closer look at each of those opening methods and find out how does it affects the cleaning.

Pivot windows are the most common type of roof window, featuring a center-hinged sash that opens outward. This design makes it easy to reach the outer pane from the inside, allowing for convenient cleaning of both sides.

Top-hung roof windows have their tilt mechanism at the top of the frame, providing an unobstructed view and efficient ventilation. These windows can be rotated similarly to swing windows for easy cleaning of the outer pane.

Top-third pivot roof windows function like centre-pivot windows but rotate from a higher pivot point. The window can be turned and locked in place, making cleaning the outside of the window much easier.

Large roof windows bring plenty of natural light into your home, making it essential to keep them clean and streak-free. The right equipment can make this task much simpler. Here are some cleaning supplies to keep on hand:

• Bucket
• Sponge
• Feather duster, soft brush, or hand brush
• Glass cleaner or dish soap
•  Cotton cloths or paper towels
• Window squeegee or vacuum
• Microfiber cloth

To maintain clear views and a pristine appearance, regularly cleaning your roof windows is crucial. Follow these steps for streak-free glass and spotless window frames:

1. Use a feather duster or soft brush to remove any loose dust or dirt.
2. Fill a bucket with lukewarm water and gently clean the window frame with a damp sponge.
3. Dry the frame with a cotton cloth.
4. Replace the cleaning water, add dish soap, and wash the windowpane with a clean sponge.
5. Allow stubborn dirt to soften for a few minutes.
6. Wipe the glass with a fresh cloth or paper towel, moving in a serpentine motion from top to bottom.
7. Use a squeegee or window vacuum to remove the water. Wipe the rubber lip of the squeegee dry between passes.
8. Finish by wiping the corners with a microfiber cloth to remove any remaining moisture.

Expert Tip: Avoid cleaning windows in direct sunlight, as the heat causes water to evaporate too quickly, leaving streaks.

Once you’ve finished the interior, it’s time to tackle the exterior. Here’s how to clean the outer panes, depending on the type of window.

Open the window using the multifunctional handle and fix it in place with the hooks or bolts. This allows you to safely clean the exterior of the window without stepping outside.

Rotate the handle to open the window, which will pivot in the middle. This allows you to reach the exterior glass with ease

Open the window using the handle, similar to hinged swing windows. You can then rotate the window and lock it in place for easy access to the outer pane.

The exterior of your roof windows is constantly exposed to environmental factors, so it’s important to clean them at regular intervals. Different types of dirt may require different cleaning approaches.

Water stains are a mixture of dust, pollen, and other particles that stick to your windows when it rains. Use a soft brush to remove larger debris before washing the glass with water and dish soap. Dry the window and frame with a cotton cloth for a polished finish.

Bird droppings can be harsh on your windows if left too long, so prompt cleaning is essential. Soak the droppings with water and dish soap to soften them. Gently remove the debris with a sponge, then finish by wiping the area with glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth for a spotless result. 

Cleaning your roof windows doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools and techniques, you can maintain crystal-clear views and keep your windows looking like new. Whether you have swing windows, hinged swing windows, or high-swing windows, following these steps will help you clean your roof windows inside and out with minimal effort. Keep your home feeling bright and airy with these professional cleaning tips, and enjoy the long-lasting benefits of well-maintained roof windows.