DIY Window Cleaning Mistakes Markham Homeowners Make (And How to Avoid Them)
DIY window cleaning mistakes in Markham are more common than you think. It might sound simple—until you’re left with streaks, smudges, and stubborn spots that won’t budge. At 2 Guys and a Bucket, we’ve been called in to fix countless DIY jobs across Markham. And we see the same window cleaning mistakes over and over again.
If you’re planning to clean your own windows in Markham, this guide will help you avoid the most common pitfalls—and show you when it’s best to hire a professional window cleaning company instead.
1. Using Windex and Paper Towels: The Most Common DIY Mistake
Windex and paper towels might seem like the obvious choice, but they leave behind streaks, lint, and a dull finish. Plus, they don’t do a great job of lifting dirt and grime from the glass.
What You Should Use Instead:
- A professional-grade squeegee (12″–18″)
- A strip washer or mop
- A bucket with cold to lukewarm water
- Just a few drops of bio-friendly dish soap (like Dawn)
- Microfibre cloths (never paper towels!)
Pro Equipment Tip: For high windows, professionals use a water-fed pole with deionized water to avoid ladder risks and ensure a spotless finish.
2. Cleaning Windows in Direct Sunlight
It’s tempting to clean windows on a bright, sunny day—after all, it seems like the perfect time to tackle the task with plenty of natural light. However, cleaning windows in direct sunlight in Markham can actually lead to poor results. The intense heat from the sun causes the water and cleaning solution to evaporate too quickly, which prevents you from properly squeegeeing the surface before it dries. This quick evaporation causes streaks, smudges, and stubborn spots that are difficult to remove.
Not only does this lead to an uneven cleaning job, but the rapid drying process also means that any soap residue or dirt left behind can bake into the glass. This results in a dull finish and can make the glass even harder to clean.
Better Timing:
For optimal results and a streak-free finish, clean your windows early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the sun is lower in the sky. During these times, the temperature is more moderate, and the sunlight is less intense, giving you more time to work before the solution dries. If possible, try cleaning on a cloudy day. The overcast sky acts like a natural diffuser, offering even light without the harsh glare of direct sunlight. This ensures that the cleaning solution stays wet long enough to be wiped away, leaving your windows spotless and streak-free.
3. Using Too Much Soap
While it may seem like more soap would lead to cleaner windows, using excessive amounts actually causes more harm than good. Too much soap creates an excess of suds that not only leaves behind a sticky residue but also attracts dirt and grime, causing your windows to get dirty again much sooner. This sticky film can also be challenging to remove, leaving streaks or an uneven finish on your windows.
The key to a streak-free clean is moderation. Over-soaping can lead to soap build-up, which can interfere with the glass’s clarity and leave it looking dull. Additionally, using too much soap in your cleaning solution makes it harder to rinse away, meaning dirt and grime can linger on the surface instead of being washed away effectively.
The Fix:
When cleaning windows in Markham, use just a few drops of a high-quality, bio-friendly dish soap in your water. The solution should feel slick, not bubbly. The goal is to have enough soap to break down dirt and grime but not so much that it leaves behind a residue. By using the right amount of soap, you’ll ensure a sparkling, streak-free finish every time—without attracting dirt back to your windows.
4. Incorrect Squeegee Technique
One of the most common DIY window cleaning mistakes in Markham is using improper squeegee techniques. Many DIYers simply drag the squeegee straight up or across the glass. While it might seem effective at first, this method can leave behind streaks, water lines, and unsightly drips. These streaks are often caused by uneven pressure on the squeegee or dragging it too quickly across the glass.
To achieve a professional, spotless finish, it’s crucial to master the correct squeegee technique. Using the wrong method can result in a frustrating experience with less-than-perfect results that don’t live up to your expectations.
Pro Technique:
For a streak-free shine, professional window cleaners in Markham use the “fanning” method. This technique involves moving the squeegee in a smooth, continuous S-shape across the glass, starting from the top and working your way down. The key is not lifting the squeegee off the glass, as doing so can cause streaks. By using this fanning motion, you’ll ensure that the entire window is cleaned evenly, leaving it crystal clear without streaks or drips.
5. Forgetting the Frames and Corners
Even if your windows appear spotless, neglecting the frames and corners is a common DIY window cleaning mistake in Markham that can undo your hard work. Dirty frames and window edges can quickly drip grime or water onto the glass after you’ve finished cleaning, leaving streaks or smudges that are hard to remove.
While it’s easy to focus solely on the glass, skipping the frames and corners can lead to frustrating, unfinished results. Those last-minute drips can leave your windows looking less than perfect, even if the glass itself is streak-free.
The Fix:
To ensure your windows look pristine, always finish by wiping the frames and corners with a clean, dry microfibre cloth after squeegeeing. Pay attention to the edges, where dirt, dust, and moisture tend to gather. This small step can make all the difference, preventing streaks or watermarks from forming once the job is done.
By carefully cleaning the frames and corners, you’ll guarantee a truly spotless finish that enhances your home’s curb appeal. And if you’re looking for the best results with minimal effort, leave this task to the window cleaning experts in Markham.
When to Call in the Window Cleaning Pros in Markham
Doing your own window cleaning in Markham can work if you have the time and the right tools. But some jobs are better left to professionals:
- You have second- or third-story windows
- You want guaranteed streak-free results
- You don’t have the equipment or know-how
- You also need power washing for siding, patios, or driveways
At 2 Guys and a Bucket, we use commercial-grade water-fed poles, deionized water, and proven techniques to leave your windows sparkling—without the stress.
Get a Free Window Cleaning Quote in Markham
We proudly serve homes and businesses in:
- Markham, Unionville, Thornhill
- Richmond Hill, North York, Toronto
📞 Call us at (647) 465-7894
📧 Email: windows@2guysandabucket.com
🌐 Book online: 2guysandabucket.com
Ready for crystal-clear, streak-free windows? Skip the stress—2 Guys and a Bucket is just a call (or click) away.
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