Skylight windows give three times more natural lighting than your average vertical window and evenly distribute it throughout your home’s interior. To prevent any disruption to the flow of lighting, as well as any damage, you need to take care while cleaning them.
, gives you some cleaning tips.
Window Interior and Exterior Cleaning
Make sure to clean the interior glass regularly using a soft brush, mild soap or a non-abrasive glass cleaner and a squeegee. Using metal scrapers or any other abrasive cleaning material should be avoided because these can scratch the glass.
Meanwhile, the exterior of the skylight windows should be cleaned every six months, especially if your home is located near the sea and heavily wooded or polluted areas. For homes located in a less harsh environment, cleaning the exterior every two years should be enough.
Also, to prevent the staining of the glass, the corrosion of the frame, and uninterrupted natural lighting, fallen leaves shouldn’t be allowed to accumulate on the exterior. This also applies to the roof to prevent foliage from clogging the gutters, leading to water run-off that might damage the siding and result in the need for siding replacement.
The Particulars of Cleaning
You should avoid using certain chemicals when cleaning certain types of skylight windows.
Acrylic Skylights – Avoid using a glass cleaner or solutions using alcohol or petroleum as its base. Instead, use water, mild soap or detergent, and a soft, lint-free cloth.
Polycarbonate Skylights – Avoid using cleaning products with acetone, alkaline, benzene, or carbon tetrachloride, as these chemicals can lead to cracks and discoloration in the skylight window.
Hardware Lubrication
The moving parts of skylight windows that can be opened or skylights with roof ventilators should be lubricated once in a while to ensure they’re working smoothly.
Wooden Frame Maintenance
Keep an eye out for cracks, peeling, and discoloration in the wooden frame. Wooden frames should be painted every few years to ensure it is protected from moisture damage.
If you’re looking to have a skylight window installed or replaced, A Cut Above Exteriors offers window and siding installation services. For inquiries, you can contact us by calling (503) 334-0733 or by filling out this form. We serve clients in Portland, OR.
