Cleaning high or inaccessible windows safely
Skylights, verandas, upstairs bay windows... How to reach them without risking your life on a ladder?
Recommended Materials
- Telescopic pole with washer/squeegee
- Window cleaning robot (optional)
- Magnetic cleaner (for single glazing)
Steps to follow
Step 1
The telescopic pole: it's the pro's essential tool. Choose a rigid one (aluminum) that doesn't bend when pressed. The tip must have a washer on one side and a squeegee on the other (or a pivoting head).
Step 2
Pole technique: Wet the window with the washer well soaked in product. Flip the pole. Squeegee from top to bottom in vertical strips. Wipe the squeegee blade with a cloth attached to the pole if possible, or tap it to remove water.
Step 3
The window cleaning robot: it suctions to the window (vacuum) and moves by itself while scrubbing with microfiber pads. It's great for verandas, glass roofs, or fixed windows inaccessible from the outside. It doesn't do as perfect a job as by hand (sometimes leaves circles in the corners), but it's better than nothing and effortless.
Step 4
The magnetic cleaner: two magnets, one inside, one outside. Warning, you must choose a powerful model adapted to the thickness of your double glazing (otherwise it falls or doesn't move). Practical but requires the knack to not drop it (attach the safety string!).
Step 5
For Skylights: most models pivot. Rotate the opening sash 180° to clean the outside from the inside. Block it with the safety latch on the side so it doesn't close on your fingers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to avoid streaks with the pole ?
It's difficult because you can't wipe the squeegee blade between each pass from a distance. Cross the passes or accept a few water marks. The important thing is that light comes in.
Cleaning with pure water ?
Pro window cleaners use poles fed with purified water (0 minerals) through a hose. The water dries naturally without leaving ANY trace, without a squeegee. It's an investment (resin filter) but the result is radical.
Precautions
- Never lean dangerously out the window.
- Attach the window cleaning robot with its safety cord.
