Best Tips to Get Super Clean Windows

Say goodbye to grime and streaks! Whether it is daily dust build up or a cute dog nose smudge — our windows are dirt magnets. But many times, even with our best intention, we end up with streaks on the glass when we attempt to clean our windows. Not to mention, leftover dirt and debris does not always wash off properly. 

Here are a few basic tips that will be a major help in achieving your window-washing goal: spotless, streak-free glass that maximizes your enjoyment of the views your windows provide. Here is how to wash your home’s windows the right way.

How often should you clean your windows?
Windows should be washed once or twice a year, depending on how much exposure they get to dirt and other soiling elements such as tree sap and bird droppings. Spring and fall are optimal times of year to clean windows, especially in colder climates. Choose a cloudy day or when the sun is not shining directly on the window. Sunshine exposure speeds up the drying of the washing solution, which can cause streaking or spotting. Because window solution dries quickly, even in the shade, work on just one window at a time. Don’t apply cleaner to multiple windows and then attempt to wash them all at once. This also applies to double-hung windows. Completely wash the top sash, and when that’s complete, wash the bottom.

What to use to wash windows
Many people purchase sprayable window washing solution to clean their windows. These products are easy to use and effective, but you can also make your own solution. The pros usually mix their own washing fluids because they are more economical and do not contain unnecessary chemicals. 

DIY Window Cleaning Solutions

• Distilled white vinegar and water: Cleaning windows with vinegar has been a tried-and-true trick for ages, and with good reason. The acidic composition of white vinegar works efficiently to break down the film that can accumulate on your windows. For a basic vinegar cleaning solution, we recommend mixing one-part distilled vinegar to 10 parts warm water in a spray bottle. Label the container and save leftovers for future use.
• Rubbing alcohol: If you have an especially stubborn area on your window, you can start your cleaning process by applying a solvent like rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and rubbing it directly on the spot. You can also add rubbing alcohol to the vinegar and water for a slightly more powerful cleaning solution.
• Dish soap: Using a few drops of Dawn dish soap in your homemade window cleaner can help remove tough grime, which may be especially helpful when washing the exterior of your windows.
• Essential oils: While the scent of distilled vinegar or rubbing alcohol typically fades within moments of use, you may want to add a drop or two of your favorite essential oil to your homemade window cleaning solution. Adding lemon essential oil is a popular choice for creating a crisp and clean aroma.

If you decide to purchase a standard window cleaner instead of making your, avoid using those that are heavily based in ammonia or alcohol. It may seem like they’d produce a more intense clean, but they can leave window streaks and even a thin film that attracts dust and moisture.

Prep Your Windows 
To avoid spreading dust and dirt around after you polish your windows, first clean out your window tracks, dust your frames and wipe down the ledges. You can use a soft brush or vacuum to do so. Next, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to wipe the dust from the glass panes. Remove any obvious marks or smudges by applying a small amount of nonabrasive cleaner with a microfiber cloth. For stubborn stains, you can also try a solvent like acetone or mineral spirits. Just rub the cloth on the areas of glass that need spot-cleaning. Be careful to avoid getting cleansers or solvents on the frames, as it may discolor the finish.

Wash Window Frames 
When it comes to cleaning frames, avoid power washing. Use warm, soapy water on a rag and avoid abrasive chemicals that may discolor the finish. Stubborn stains and deposits may be removed with mineral spirits or a cleaning solution like Pine-Sol® applied with a clean, dry cloth.

Clean Glass from Top to Bottom 
Use a lint-free microfiber cloth to clean your windows. Paper towels are likely to leave behind lint and fibers that can make your clean windows appear dirty. Spray your glass cleaner directly to the microfiber cloth, instead of spritzing the window itself. This can help prevent the cleaning solution from getting on your window frames. Work your microfiber cloth in a zig-zag motion down the window, starting at the top. Once you’ve completed the entire pane, grab a dry microfiber cloth to buff out any remaining solution residue. You’ll want to do this quickly after cleaning to prevent streaks.

Avoid Wiping With Paper
Paper towels and newspapers are commonly misused as products for scrubbing and drying the glass, but they just break down and leave lint behind. Use a microfiber cloth to do the job instead; it will grab dirt and dust and leave nothing behind.

Cleaning Double-Hung Windows 
If you have double-hung windows, tilting the sashes in makes it easy to clean exterior surfaces from the interior of your home. Clean the top sash first, starting with the exterior and followed by the interior, and then repeating the same process on the lower sash. If you’re washing larger, hard-to-reach outdoor windows, a squeegee may help expedite the cleaning process. Mix a slightly more diluted solution in a bucket, wash the windows with a sponge and use the squeegee to wipe the solution off from the top down. Wipe the edge of the squeegee clean after each swipe to help avoid dripping.

Vacuum Window Screens 
The best way to clean window screens is to vacuum off dust and dirt with an upholstery brush attachment. For grease spots, typically found on kitchen window screens, use a sponge, hot water and a mild detergent. Remember to be gentle as screens can bend easily.

Dust Blinds and Shades 
For standard blinds or shades that are fashioned over the glass, regular dusting will help them maintain a like-new appearance. For wood blinds, dust with a dry cloth or vacuum gently with a soft brush attachment. If you have plastic or metal blinds, you can immerse them in a tub of lukewarm water and mild detergent. Then, rinse with clear water and let air dry before reinstalling. For fabric blinds or shades, use a vacuum cleaner with a drapery brush attachment to remove dust and a damp cloth to remove any smudges or fingerprints.

Invest in a Squeegee
The best way to obtain a streak-free shine is to make sure all the water and soap are removed from the window. Run over the glass from top to bottom with a rubber-bladed squeegee to scrape away excess water.

Shannon Runs Again!

There’s no one like Shannon. She reminds me of the Tasmanian Devil—a fast-talking whirlwind that rips in and out of your life, dragging you along until you’ve signed up for something you didn’t expect. She brings this energy not only to our office here at A.B.E. Doors and Windows, but everything she touches. Shannon’s Girl Scout Troop sells more cookies than I can fathom, goes on trips to New York City and beyond, and accomplishes more in one weekly meeting than I can in a month. If you look up adventurous in the dictionary, you’ll see Shannon’s smiling face. Nothing can stop her.

October is a month dedicated to something you might not think about every day — window covering safety. National Window Covering Safety Month serves as a reminder of the importance of making your homes safe for your little ones and furry friends. 

When we think of the many ways to ensure our homes are as safe as possible for our children, window falls are usually a concern. But parents still often overlook a potentially serious item, window covering cords.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), corded window coverings are one of the top five hidden hazards in American homes. Corded window coverings can be a strangulation hazard when infants, young children and even pets can accidentally become entangled in the cords. A serious accident can only take seconds. The CPSC, the window covering industry and consumer safety advocates all agree that only cordless window coverings or those with inaccessible cords should be used in homes with young children.

How do you know what is the right choice?

Replace window blinds, corded shades and draperies with products that are cordless or have inaccessible cords, such as those marked with the “Best for Kids” label certification, available at major retailers in the U.S. The Best for Kids™ certification program makes it easy for parents and caregivers to make the right choice to help them identify the window covering products that are best suited for homes with young children. 

Additional safety tips:

• While you are waiting for your cordless options to arrive and be installed, move all cribs, beds, furniture and toys away from windows and window covering cords, preferably to another wall.
• Also, ensure that all window covering cords are out of sight and reach, by shortening or tying them up and away, so that they are inaccessible to young children.

Benefits of Cordless Blinds and Shades

• Child Safety: Cordless blinds and shades eliminate the risk of cords becoming choking hazards for children or pet playthings. You can have peace of mind knowing your home is a safer place for your little ones.
• Clean Aesthetic: Cordless window treatments offer a streamlined and clutter-free appearance, making your living spaces more elegant and sophisticated.
• Easy Operation: Operating cordless blinds and shades is simple and convenient. A gentle push or pull is all it takes to raise or lower them to your desired position.
• Durability: Cordless options are designed for longevity and smooth operation, ensuring that your investment will stand the test of time.

Smart and Safe: Motorized Solutions

If you're looking for an extra level of convenience and safety, motorized window treatments are the way to go. These innovative solutions can be controlled with the touch of a button, remote control, or even your smartphone, eliminating the need for cords or manual operation. This not only enhances safety but also adds a touch of modern luxury to your home.

• Ultimate Convenience: Control your window treatments with ease, adjusting them to your preferred settings effortlessly.
• Safety Assurance: Motorized solutions eliminate cords, making them an ideal choice for homes with children and pets.
• Energy Efficiency: Some motorized blinds and shades can be programmed to optimize natural light and temperature, helping you save on energy costs.
• Smart Home Integration: Many of our motorized solutions can be integrated into your smart home system, allowing you to control them with voice commands or via a mobile app.

Let's make your windows beautiful, functional, and, most importantly, safe for your loved ones this National Window Covering Safety Month!

Happy 50^th to A.B.E. Doors and Windows!

If you’ve driven down Hamilton Blvd recently, you might have noticed some construction where our original showroom used to be. A.B.E. Doors and Windows now sits center stage in a brand-new shopping center. While our upgrade has been in the works for a while, it’s always nice to see the fruits of one’s labor blossom. I can only imagine how it feels for Jim, who started this company in his parents’ garage in June of 1974.

As the vibrant colors of fall sweep in, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the cooler months ahead. Fall maintenance isn’t just about keeping your house looking great; it’s about safeguarding it from the harsher weather to come and ensuring everything runs smoothly during the colder season.

Here’s a handy checklist to help you through the essential fall maintenance around the house:

1. Check and Clean Gutters and Downspouts

With falling leaves and autumn rain, gutters can quickly become clogged, leading to water damage. Blocked gutters can cause water to overflow, damaging your roof, siding, and even your foundation.

• Tip: Clean out your gutters regularly and check for leaks or misalignment. Ensure water is being directed away from the house to prevent erosion and basement flooding.

2. Inspect the Roof

The roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. After the summer heat and before the winter snow, fall is an ideal time to inspect for any damage.

• Tip: Look for loose, damaged, or missing shingles, and check for signs of wear around vents, chimneys, and skylights. Repair any issues now to prevent leaks or ice dams in the winter.

3. Seal Windows and Doors – One of A.B.E. Doors & Windows favorite home maintenance tip.

Drafts can significantly increase your heating costs in winter. Ensure that windows and doors are properly sealed to keep the cold air out and warm air in.

• Tip: Check weather stripping and caulking around windows and doors. 

4. Service Your Heating System

As temperatures drop, your heating system will be working overtime. Regular maintenance can improve efficiency and prevent costly repairs.

• Tip: Have a professional inspect and service your furnace, heat pump, or boiler. Replace air filters, check for proper airflow, and test your thermostat to ensure everything is functioning efficiently.

5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With the increased use of heating systems in fall and winter, it’s essential to make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order.

• Tip: Replace batteries and test each device. Ensure you have detectors installed on every floor, especially near bedrooms and common areas.

6. Drain and Winterize Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems

Frozen water in outdoor pipes can cause them to burst, leading to costly repairs. It’s important to drain and shut off outdoor water systems before the first freeze.

• Tip: Disconnect hoses from outdoor faucets, drain them, and store them away. If you have a sprinkler system, hire a professional to blow out any remaining water.

7. Inspect and Clean Your Fireplace

If you have a fireplace, fall is the time to get it ready for cozy winter nights. A poorly maintained fireplace can be a fire hazard.

• Tip: Hire a professional chimney sweep to clean out any built-up creosote. Check for cracks or other damage in the chimney lining and ensure the flue is functioning properly.

8. Trim Trees and Shrubs

Trees and shrubs add beauty to your yard, but overgrown branches can pose a danger to your home during storms or heavy snowfall.

• Tip: Trim back any branches that are close to your home, especially those hanging over the roof. Remove dead or damaged limbs to prevent them from falling during high winds.

Taking the time to complete these fall maintenance tasks will not only protect your home during the colder months but can also help you avoid costly repairs down the road. A little preparation now goes a long way in ensuring your home remains safe, efficient, and comfortable as winter approaches.

A.B.E Doors & Windows wishes you a Happy fall!

Welcome, Cole!

We’d like to welcome a new member to the A.B.E. Doors & Windows family. Introducing Cole!

Pros and Cons of Provia’s Internal Blinds

Hopefully that helps you decide whether or not you’d like to upgrade your home with Provia’s internal blinds. We have several examples on display if you’d like to see them, including all the colors and how they would look with grids. Happy shopping!

Whether you choose bright and bold or something more traditional, the color of your front door may reveal a bit about your personality. Do the meanings behind these colors match your individuality?

Red

In early American history a red door was often associated with hospitality. It let travelers know that they were welcome to spend the night. For many Colonial-style homes, this is still a popular front door color today. If an entryway boasts a shade of cherry, burgundy or brick red, the owners are open to visitors and have a welcoming spirit.

Black

Perfect for any style home, black is traditional and elegant. This person is most likely timeless and classic. A glance into the home will find a formal interior that is well organized. A black front door also conveys a safe, well-protected home.

Yellow & Orange

The words “refreshing” or “bold” may come to mind when you knock on these front doors. These bright inviting tones tell of a person that is confident in nature. Their vibrant personality is reflected by their choice of fun pops of color, which probably extend into the interior of the home as well.

Blue Hues

This versatile color is perfect for coastal and beach-type homes. Relaxed and casual, these homeowners are calm and trusting. Don’t be surprised if shoes are optional in this home.

Natural Wood

Earthy and rustic, a natural look conveys a person who is level-headed, practical and down to earth. They appreciate nature and look for details that other people may not notice. Don’t be surprised if they don’t answer the door bell, you’ll probably find them enjoying the deck out back.

White

A classic, simple choice, white is tidy & pure. It reflects a clean, fresh, airy feeling. This homeowner may be very traditional and a bit of a neat freak. A person that chooses this color preference appreciates the beauty and elegance of simple things.

Did you find that your personality matched the color of your front door? Visit our recently renovated showroom at 6776 Hamilton Blvd. in Allentown to explore a variety of stunning front door colors. If you're looking to enhance your entryway, stop by and see our selection.

Never underestimate the power of the sun. Letting natural light into your home offers many benefits. Let’s learn more about the importance of those radiant rays.

Vitamin D

The “sunshine vitamin” is essential for our bodies. It plays a key role in reducing the risk of heart disease, preventing bone loss and supporting your overall health. When natural light enters your home, your vitamin D levels get a boost-even if you are indoors.

Helps Regulate Sleep Patterns

Your circadian rhythm is regulated by the exposure to natural light. If you are not getting enough exposure during the day, you may experience trouble falling asleep at night or maintaining enough energy throughout the day. Pulling back your curtains in the morning and exposing those rays helps to support your body’s natural rhythm.

Lowers Stress

We could all benefit from reducing stress in our lives. Exposure to sunshine triggers the release of serotonin, a hormone that promotes feelings of calmness and happiness. Opting to sit by a sunny window during lunchtime can help reduce stress levels and uplift your mood for the rest of the day.

Increase Productivity

If you work from home, position your desk so it faces a window. The sunlight that streams in will have you feeling more energized and productive. You’ll beat that afternoon slump and find yourself breezing through emails and work presentations.

Protects Your Eyes

Many of us work at a computer screen for great lengths of time. Natural light that filters into the room will make it unnecessary to increase the brightness of your screen and your eyes will feel less strained as a result.

Save On Energy

Increasing the amount of natural light in your home will reduce the need for bright overhead lighting. For instance, the windows in a kitchen can negate the need for task lighting during the day. You’ll find you can keep your electric bill a bit lower if you keep most of your home’s lighting off during the day.

If you are dealing with dirty, fogged or cracked windows that are hindering the flow of light into your house, our knowledgeable sales team is available to recommend replacement windows that will brighten up your space. Contact us at 610.398.2430 to learn more.

Americana Art Glass

As we celebrate the Fourth of July, I’d like to take a moment to highlight one of Provia’s very special glass designs. The Americana Art Glass just may be the most patriotic design you’ll find anywhere!

Rainbow of Colors!

There’s nothing I like more than a beautiful rainbow. When it comes to colors, Provia has got you covered.

The installation of your new entryway door is finished and the results are stunning. To complete this updated look, consider adding new lighting fixtures, decorative accents and a welcoming doormat. Here are some suggestions to enhance the overall look and boost your curb appeal.

Lighting Fixtures

The right lighting is not only for illumination, but can create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for your home. When choosing the best fixture to compliment your entryway you may first want to consider placement. Whether you choose a wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, or a combination of both fixtures, the goals is to create a warm and vast pool of light that illuminates the entire area, including dark corners. Energy-efficient bulbs like CFLs or LEDs will last longer and be more cost effective.

Explore various fixture styles to add a touch of personality. Lantern styles and matching sconces are currently trending in interior design. Consider coordinating the color of your fixtures with your door’s hardware for a cohesive look. Or opt for a contrasting color for a more dramatic effect.

Have a Seat

If you have a larger porch area, some comfortable seating like a garden bench with cushions or wicker chairs can create a welcoming atmosphere. In smaller areas consider a few stools or a bench instead.

Engaging Decor

Enhance your personal style by adding a welcome sign or updating your house number plaque. Flower planters are an excellent way to infuse color into your outdoor space. Consider plants like zinnias, marigolds, cosmos or petunias, as they do well in the summer heat. A tasteful front door wreath made of greens and a ribbon can elevate your entryways appearance.

Welcome to Our Home

Greet guests with an attractive door mat. Coir is a durable material that is also good at trapping & keeping dirt from entering your home. Colorful mats or ones with clever sayings give guests a smile before entering your home. Additionally, outdoor rugs are another way to collect dirt and add a personal touch.

We have a wonderful selection of front doors if you are considering replacement. Please call us at 610.398.2430 or visit our new showroom located at 6776 Hamilton Boulevard, Allentown to discover stylish options for your home.

Walking the FineLine

As we say goodbye to our old showroom and welcome the new with open arms, we will finally have Provia’s new FineLine Weld on display instead of on a tiny cross-section sample.

A few tips to keep your garage clean and organized.
Take a stroll around the exterior of your garage and remove any debris you come across, inspect Your Door and Opener regularly, and perform a safety check in and around your garage door. In the event of a power outage, you should know how to manually operate your garage door. Click here for more.

Spring is in the air! I love seeing all the flowers peeking their heads out into the sunshine (and sometimes even through the snow)! If you’re anything like me, you might wish the flowers could decorate your home year-round.

Accidents involving an open window are easily preventable. We’ve highlighted some common areas that may be a risk, so you can take steps to keep everyone safe.

Prevent Climbing Near Windows

Children (and some pets) love to explore and climb all kinds of things. Furniture placed close to windows can be a hazard if an open window is near-by. Take steps to prevent this possible accident and monitor kids at play if rearranging things is not possible. 

Welcome, Scott!

Get your windows sparkling like a pro this spring. Follow our tips and you’ll be enjoying all the blooms and sights in no time.

First, gather all the necessary items. This will ensure that you are prepared and not wasting time searching for supplies like extra paper towels. We recommend having the following items on hand: a bucket, sponges, squeegee, soft cloth, newspapers or paper towels and a soft bristle brush. If you are going to do the exteriors you may want to have your hose hooked up and a ladder. By having these tools ready, you can streamline the process and achieve a sparking finish.

A.B.E. Doors and Windows had very humble beginnings. When Jim started the company in June of 1974, he bought a used 1957 F100 Ford Pickup for hauling steel cellar doors and cement bags. It was a used farm truck from Northampton with step sides and painted a cheerful green. 

If your home’s safety and comfort are important to you, then adding a storm door to your entry-way may be a great addition. As you consider various storm door options, consider these benefits.

Primary Door Protection 

Investing in a high-quality storm door can offer an additional level of protection against harsh weather such as rain, ice and snow. This extra layer will extend your door’s fresh appearance for years to come and help prevent maintenance expenses. 

Replacing your windows is a wonderful way to add value to your home. You’ll also discover they are easy to maintain, energy efficient and add curb appeal. Let’s look at the process so you know what to expect.

Replacement windows, as the name suggests, are designed to replace your current windows. They will be similar in size as the old windows and mounted to fit the existing opening. This will cause minimal disruption to the wall and trim around the window. Less mess is always good!

We’d like to welcome a new member to the A.B.E. Doors & Windows family. Introducing Joe! He started as an installer in July 2023. When he’s not spending time cooking chicken and rice for his daughter, he can be found on the golf course. We’re grateful to have Joe as one of our valued employees.

We’d like to welcome a new member to the A.B.E. Doors & Windows family. Introducing Ryan! He started as a service technician, specializing in garage doors in June 2023. Ryan comes to us with eight years of prior garage door experience. He is a homebody who loves spending time with his family, including two young children and a dog. He’s recently tried out some hunting in his free time and has high hopes for adding it to his long list of hobbies. We’re grateful to have Ryan as one of our valued employees.

It’s my favorite time of year—Halloween season! I don’t know about everyone else, but I love horror movies and one of the staples of iconic horror is… broken glass. Whether it’s the killer smashing their way inside to slice up some unsuspecting coeds or taking advantage so the poorly-dressed heroine can get a makeshift knife, broken glass is one of horror’s favorite props.

The Bilco Company has done such a good job marketing that their brand name has become synonymous with basement doors, the way Kleenex has taken over the word tissue. 

In 2018, Provia implemented a new packaging system to better protect their windows during shipping. All the windows are individually shipped fully-enclosed in custom-sized boxes. By shipping their windows like that, Provia adds the benefits of lowering the risk of damage, keeping the windows clean, keeping all components together, and allowing for a professional appearance on the job site.  Even better, all Provia’s boxes are recyclable!

Introducing the Raynor Encore!

New this year, they have come out with the Encore! The residential two-sided steel door is filled with 2” thick polystyrene insulation resulting in an excellent 10.0 R-value. For the lifetime that you own your home and their garage door, Raynor guarantees the door against defects in materials, workmanship, and rust. With seven different panels designs, eleven colors (including red and wood tones), and nineteen window styles, there’s a lot to like with this new model. 

Your garage door is by far the largest, heaviest object that moves in your home. That’s why it’s so important you maintain it properly and ensure it’s safety with these tips and precautions.

Talk to your children (and their friends) about not playing with the door or the remote control. There are over 40,000 injuries to kids every year caused by the garage door. Keep yours safe by explaining they should never hang on to door when it is moving and always stay a safe distance away when the door is in operation. Keep remotes away from curious little hands and mount the opener button high enough that small children can not reach it.

If you cannot find something to love with Provia’s twenty-one Decorative Glass styles, you also have nineteen Art Glasses to choose from. You can apply the art design to seven different obscured glasses or keep it clear. The featured Art Glass patterns can be filled with your choice of any standard or trending color in the catalogue. They also have five different colored resin beads to outline the design, giving you an endless playground of artistic license even if you can’t draw yourself. If the available designs don’t tickle your fancy, you can also create your own unique Art Glass. 

We wanted to celebrate and recognize the role of women in construction this month. Often thought of as man’s profession, we’d like to introduce you to a few women who have had a big impact on the construction scene. (Including our own wonderful gals in the ABE office!)

Lady Elizabeth Wilbraham (1632-1705), made a name for herself by drawing up her own designs for grand homes for her extended family. She was also involved in the designs of hundreds of buildings and several churches in the London area, Unfortunately, she was not allowed to take credit for them and they were attributed to another gentlemen at the time.