Some homeowners mistakenly think walls and windows don't add much to their home value, but that's not true. Well-maintained, clean windows and freshly painted walls are one of your home's most significant assets. Potential home buyers immediately notice when they are in good condition.
Not only will regular cleaning and maintenance help keep windows looking great for years to come, but avoiding dirty windows can also help prevent window damage, protect indoor air quality and maintain your home's energy efficiency levels. We recommend cleaning windows every one or two months for optimal performance.
Getting your windows cleaned by a professional is not as costly as you might think. In the long run, it will most likely save you money. By reducing the normal wear and tear with regular cleanings, you will have to replace your windows less. Also, spotting potential damage early can save you money as well.
According to the Remodeling's 2023 Cost vs. Value report, replacing vinyl windows adds an average of $13,766 in value to a home — about 69% of the cost of the project. The return on investment for replacing wood windows is slightly less, adding $14,912 in value to your home, on average.
According to their report, windows should be washed twice a year, while screens need only to be cleaned annually. For many home owners and even renters, window cleaning usually is a once-a-year chore.
Seasons with mild weather, such as spring or autumn, are better than window cleaning in the heat and direct sunlight of summer or the cold in winter, which could be hard on hands and icy windows.
Dirt particles will enter the glass' pores, contaminating and corroding the windows. The first things you may notice will be some light scratches or cracks. Eventually, an unmaintained window can be altered on a structural level and will need a full replacement.
Homes are valued and priced by the livable square feet they contain, and the more livable square feet, the better, says Benjamin Ross, a Realtor and real estate investor based in Corpus Christi, Texas. As a result, adding a bathroom, a great room or another needed space to a home can increase function and add value.
The Number of Windows
This will impact the labour time and increase the final cost. If you have a conservatory on your property this could also dramatically increase the cost as it may need specialist cleaning for the glass. Even if not, the number of windows on a conservatory will add to the final price.
For the most part, a home can generally get away with a thorough cleaning twice a year. For windows that look great all year round, two to four professional washing a year is optimal.
Window cleaning isn't a daily or weekly regimen, and if done correctly, should only be needed every three to six months on residential properties and one to six months on commercial properties. There are circumstances that may affect how long your windows will stay clean.
You should never clean windows when the sun is shining directly on them or on hot days. This is because the glass will dry too quickly and streaks will appear. A grey, but dry, day is therefore the most suitable time to clean your windows.
If you're all about the DIY life, we've got just the thing for you. Combine two parts water with one part white vinegar in a spray bottle and you'll be all set with a homemade window cleaner. You can also combine warm water with a few drops of dishwashing soap if you prefer.
Don't Wash in the Sun: Don't wash windows in direct sunlight because the sun can overheat glass and cause streaking.
Property valuation primarily takes into account recent sales of comparable properties in the area. Key identifying factors are the same square footage, number of bedrooms and lot size, among other details.
A home's value is affected by local real estate trends, the housing market, the home's condition, age, location and property size.
Your property value is often out of your control. Changes in the real estate market can lower the value of your home. Natural disasters and climate change can lower your property value because the property is a greater risk to purchase. Foreclosures in your neighborhood can also drive down property value.
Adding crown molding to just a few rooms is sufficient to boost your home value. Small details make a difference when you sell your home, and crown molding is one of the little touches potential buyers look for.
Perhaps your windows haven't even had the dirt removed properly. This can happen if you keep reusing a sponge that isn't being washed frequently. Or if the technique used is sloppy and not thorough. And some squeegees give a really patchy finish, especially poorer quality models not designed for professional use.
Home windows have a lifespan of 15-20 years. Once they reach this age, the seals start to weaken or fail, which leaves you open to drafts and water seepage. In addition, single-pane windows were the standard 15+ years ago. These windows lack insulation and are not as energy efficient as modern double-pane windows.
All the debris and dirt you see on your windowsill is just a fraction of the allergens you have in your home. Dander, pollen, hair, and dust are gathering on the windowsill and outside the home and can make your family sick. You can greatly reduce the impact of the allergens by having windows cleaned.