Skylights provide a gorgeous enhancement to any home, adding natural light and openness. Like any other window, though, they require maintenance to remain in good condition. Skylight cleaning is important not just aesthetically but also for the longevity and operation of your skylights. Here’s all you need to know about cleaning skylights.
Why Is Skylight Cleaning Important?
Skylights are often positioned in hard-to-reach areas, which can make them difficult to clean. However, neglecting them can result in dirt, grime, and even algae build-up. Over time, this can obstruct the natural light and even cause damage to the skylight’s surface. Keeping your skylights clean will:
- Enhance natural light inside your home.
- Prevent the build-up of dirt and debris that could damage your skylight over time.
- Let you have uncontaminated views of the sky.
When Should You Clean Your Skylights?
The frequency is also different, depending on the environment that surrounds your home and the type of installed skylight. The general rule of thumb would be cleaning your skylights twice a year, during spring and fall. You will have to clean it more often if you live in an area that has highly dusty, pollen-infested, or polluted air.
How to Safely Clean Your Skylights
Skylight cleaning does call for special care, especially when they are installed high upwards or out of reach. Here are the steps you can take to ensure you safely clean your skylights and does it well:
1. Use the Right Tools
Cleaning skylights safely requires the right equipment. A microfiber cloth or sponge attached to the end of a telescoping pole will enable you to clean from the ground. You may also want to have a ladder handy in case any of your skylights are within reach. At all costs, avoid abrasive materials that will scratch the glass surface.
2. Select the Correct Cleaning Solution
For most skylights, a simple mixture of water and mild dish soap will suffice. You can use a commercial glass cleaner if needed, but make sure it’s safe for the type of glass used in your skylight. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the seals or surface.
3. Clean on a Dry Day
The best time to clean skylights is during a dry, overcast day. This is because direct sunlight will make cleaning products dry too quickly and leave streaks on the glass. Windy weather should also be avoided because this may make it unsafe to clean the windows.
4. Start with the Frame and Edges
Clean off the frame and edges first before attacking the glass itself. This is where dirt and debris tend to accumulate. Use a brush or cloth to remove dirt or leaves from the frame.
5. Cleaning the Glass
After the frame is clean, move on to the glass. Using your microfiber cloth or sponge, gently wipe the glass in a circular motion. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including the corners.
6. Rinse and Dry
Once the soap is cleaned from the glass, one should rinse the skylight with clean water to remove the soap. Then, gently dry the glass using a clean dry cloth. This prevents streaks. One can also use a squeegee for ensuring a streak-free finish.
Consider Professional Cleaning Services
This is perfectly doable by oneself, but sometimes certain situations require the use of professionals. When your skylight is on a high roof or perhaps damaged, then that calls for professional cleaning services. They have the proper equipment and expertise to handle skylight cleaning safely and effectively.
Skylight cleaning is one of the major parts of home maintenance. Such regular cleaning improves not only their appearance but also extends the life cycle of these home components. Whether you do it yourself or call in professional help, you will be able to enjoy all the beauty of natural light with sparkling skylights.
Key Takeaway: A clean skylight is boosting for your house and it keeps the glass intact. Cleaning of the skylights must be carried out quite regularly.
