How MN Wildfire Smoke Can Affect Your Windows

Wildfire smoke in Minnesota has made the air hazy across much of the region this July, creating unhealthy breathing conditions for many people. While most people think about the impact on air quality, the smoke can also affect your home's windows. Tiny particles of ash, soot, and other debris can settle onto the glass, leaving behind a thin layer of residue. This buildup can make your windows appear cloudy and dull. Once the smoke has cleared, here are a few simple tips to help restore your windows and keep them looking their best.

Rain is not enough to clean your windows

Rain Won't Solve Your Window Problems

A common misconception is that a good rainstorm will wash away the smoke. In reality, rain often mixes with soot and ash, leaving behind streaks, water spots, and grime that can be even more noticeable once everything dries. And don't assume a garden hose is much better. Depending on your water quality, it can leave behind hard water spots that aren't always easy to remove with simple dish soap.

Make Sure to Clean the Screens After Wildfire Smoke

Smoke particles collect on window screens just as easily as they do on glass. In fact, screens can trap enough particles to hold onto the smoky odor. If you're cleaning your windows, be sure to clean the screens, frames, and sills as well. Otherwise, dust and residue from those areas can quickly end up back on your freshly cleaned glass.

Microfiber clothes work much better than paper towels

Don't Use Paper Towels

We recommend using a few drops of dish soap mixed with water, along with a microfiber cloth, followed by a squeegee from top to bottom. Paper towels and glass cleaner can smear fine smoke particles and often leave lint or streaks behind, making the job more time-consuming.

Make Sure to Get Your Tall Windows

Removing smoke residue from tall windows can be even more challenging, especially if you don't want to climb a ladder. That's why we use an extended water-fed pole system that reaches up to 40 feet, allowing us to safely clean high windows from the ground. If your tall windows are still looking cloudy after the smoke settles, give us a call. We'd be happy to provide you with a free estimate!

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