Importance of Cleaning Window Tracks

Window tracks are often overlooked when it comes to regular cleaning routines, but neglecting them can lead to various problems, such as the build-up of dirt and grime, and compromise the appearance and functionality of your windows. This buildup can prevent windows from shutting properly, allowing drafts into the house. Drafts make the home less energy-efficient, which in turn creates an unnecessary loss of hard-earned dollars. No one wants that!

At Umbrella Property Services, we understand the unique challenges homeowners face in the Greater Vancouver area and that’s why we’re here to offer you expert advice on maintaining clean and functional window tracks.

Here are four reasons why cleaning window tracks is incredibly important: 

Preventing Damage

When dirt and debris accumulate in window tracks, they can prevent your windows from operating smoothly. Over time, this can lead to wear and tear, resulting in damaged window components and potentially costly repairs. By keeping the tracks clean, you can prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris, ensuring the smooth opening and closing of your windows.

Improving Energy Efficiency

Properly cleaned window tracks contribute to improved energy efficiency in your home. As mentioned above, when dirt and debris build up in the tracks, it can create gaps or obstruct the seal, allowing drafts to enter and conditioned air to escape. This forces your heating and cooling systems to work harder, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. By cleaning the window tracks, you can maintain a tight seal and enhance the energy efficiency of your windows.

Promoting Indoor Air Quality

Dust, pollen, and allergens tend to accumulate in window tracks, especially in areas with high levels of outdoor pollution or allergen triggers. Failure to clean the tracks can lead to these particles being circulated into your home every time you open or close the windows. Regularly cleaning window tracks helps to minimize the presence of these irritants, promoting better indoor air quality and a healthier living environment for you and your family.

​​Enhancing Aesthetics

Dirty window tracks can accumulate debris, dust, and grime over time, which can create an unsightly appearance. Regularly cleaning window tracks ensures that your windows look clean, and well-maintained, and enhances the overall aesthetic of your home. This is especially crucial in Greater Vancouver, where rainy weather and environmental factors can contribute to a buildup of dirt and moisture.

Supplies for Cleaning Window Tracks

I know window track cleaning may sound like a big problem, but don’t worry, it’s not! If a wet cloth and some Q-tips aren’t enough to clean up your window tracks, you can follow this method to get them sparkling again.

• Baking Soda and White Vinegar (or Hydrogen Peroxide): They create a powerful cleaning solution that lifts debris, disinfects, and removes tough residue from window tracks, leaving them fresh and spotless.
• Q-tips: They are crucial for cleaning window tracks as their small size and precision easily reach tight corners and crevices, ensuring the thorough removal of dirt, grime, and debris. They help keep your windows spotless and functioning smoothly.
• A Toothbrush or Small Scrub Brush: Use this to reach into crevices and corners for thorough cleaning.
• Microfiber Cloths: These are ideal for wiping away dirt and grime from the tracks without scratching the surface.
• Mild Detergent or Hot Water: Dilute the detergent or use hot water to remove stubborn stains and buildup.

How to Clean Window Tracks

Step 1: Sprinkle baking soda onto the tracks and corners. Pour a little bit of vinegar on top of the baking soda. This step will help loosen the dirt and grime.

Step 2: Take your Q-tips and work in a circular motion to continue loosening up the dirt and grime and move it from the corners to the middle of the track.

Step 3: Once everything is loosened up, take some hot water and/or mild detergent and pour it into the corners so all the dirt and grime will be easy to clean up in the middle of the track.

Step 4: Take your microfiber cloth and clean up all that grime and dirt. Then be sure everything is dry.

Voila! Now admire your beautifully clean window tracks.

We’re Here to Help!

Give us a call at 1.888.255.4666 if you have any questions about cleaning window tracks or windows, we have lots of valuable information! If it’s a job you don’t have time for yourself, let us help. We will come by and give you a free estimate.