Ever looked up at your skylight only to see dirty streaks blocking that beautiful natural light? Proper skylight cleaning requires the right tools and techniques to get those hard-to-reach windows sparkling again. In this post we will go over some of our best tips from the Brightness window cleaning team.
As a professional window cleaner in Rockland County, I’ve seen how dirty skylights can dim even the brightest homes. Let’s walk through how to tackle those overhead windows safely and effectively.
Preparation is Key
Skylight cleaning safety tips start with proper prep work. Before climbing up there, check the weather forecast – aim for a cloudy day so cleaning solution won’t dry too quickly.
Gather all your skylight cleaning tools first:
- Extension poles with attachments
- Microfiber cloths
- Rubber squeegees
- Non-slip shoes
- Safety harness (for steep roofs)
Safety comes first! If your skylight sits on a steep pitch or second story, consider calling professional skylight washing services instead. Many Nanuet homeowners hire us because their roof angle makes DIY cleaning dangerous.
Start with Debris Removal
Before wetting any glass, remove leaves, twigs, and other debris. A soft brush attachment on an extension pole works great for this initial step.
Be careful around the edges where dirt often collects. Gentle brushing prevents scratching while loosening stuck-on materials.
For Watermill residents near trees, this step is crucial during fall when leaves pile up. We see many skylights damaged when homeowners skip this prep step and grind debris into the glass.
Use the Right Cleaning Solution
Skip harsh chemicals! The best skylight cleaning solution is simple:
- 1 gallon warm water
- 2 tablespoons dish soap OR
- 1 part vinegar to 10 parts water
These mixtures remove grime without damaging seals. For tough spots, try this water spots removal trick: mix equal parts white vinegar and distilled water.
You can find quality cleaning concentrates at Lowes or mix your own. Many of our clients in Rockland County prefer eco-friendly options that won’t harm plants below.
Proper Cleaning Technique
Now comes the real work. Apply your solution generously using a mop attachment on an extension pole. For total coverage:
- Work in sections
- Saturate thoroughly
- Let solution sit for 30-60 seconds on tough spots
Professional skylight washing techniques involve working from the highest point downward. This prevents dirty water from running back over cleaned areas.
Hard-to-reach window cleaning gets easier when you invest in quality extension poles. I recommend telescoping models from Uline that adjust to different heights.
Eliminate Streaking
The secret to streak-free skylight cleaning? It’s all in the squeegee technique:
- Start at one corner
- Pull in one continuous motion
- Wipe blade between strokes
- Slightly overlap each pass
Use a clean microfiber cloth for edges. The rubber squeegee blade should be replaced when it shows signs of wear – you can find replacements on Amazon.
Our clients in Nanuet often tell us they struggled with streaks until learning this method. Clean on an overcast day to prevent premature drying that causes streaks.
Inspect for Damage
While cleaning, look closely for:
- Cracks in glass
- Compromised seals
- Water stains that won’t clean off
Proper roof window maintenance includes regular inspections. Small issues caught early prevent costly repairs later. If you spot damaged seals or staining between panes, that indicates a bigger problem needing professional attention.
Many Watermill customers extend skylight lifespan cleaning by scheduling professional inspections twice yearly. This regular maintenance prevents water damage to interior ceilings.
Pro Tip: If dirt has built up on your roof, rainwater can carry that grime onto your skylight windows, causing them to get dirty faster. To help keep them clean, we recommend adding our gentle soft roof washing service.
Don’t Forget the Frames
Once glass sparkles, clean the frames too. Different materials need different care:
- Vinyl: Soap and water solution
- Aluminum: Mild detergent, avoid abrasives
- Wood: Gentle cleaning and check for moisture damage
Seasonal skylight maintenance should include frame care. In Rockland County’s changing weather, frames can deteriorate faster than glass if neglected.
Apply a silicone-based protectant to rubber seals after cleaning to prevent cracking. This simple step extends the life of your skylight substantially.
DIY Skylight Maintenance Schedule
For best results, create a cleaning calendar:
- Spring: Full cleaning after pollen season
- Summer: Check for storm damage
- Fall: Remove leaves and debris
- Winter: Interior cleaning only
Regular window screen cleaning also helps keep your skylights in top condition by preventing debris buildup.
FAQ: Skylight Cleaning Questions
How often should skylights be cleaned? Clean exterior skylights twice yearly—spring and fall work best. Interior surfaces can be cleaned quarterly.
Can I use Windex on skylights? Avoid ammonia-based cleaners like Windex on skylights. They can damage seals and frames over time. Stick with mild soap solutions.
How do I clean extremely dirty skylights? For heavily soiled skylights, use a two-step process: first clean with soap solution, rinse, then follow with a vinegar solution for stubborn spots.
Is pressure washing safe for skylights? Never pressure wash skylights. The force can damage seals and potentially crack glass. Always use gentle cleaning methods.
How do I clean skylights I can’t reach? If your skylight is inaccessible, hiring professional skylight cleaning services is the safest option. We have specialized skylight cleaning tools designed for safe access.
Proper skylight cleaning means brighter, more beautiful living spaces and extended window life. When in doubt, call the professionals—we’ve been making skylights sparkle across Nanuet, Watermill, and all of Rockland County for years with our streak-free skylight cleaning techniques.