I screen, you screen…

...we ALL love clean insect screens! 

The best way to tackle a dusty/dirty screen depends on the type. Read on for tips for cleaning both standard aluminum screens, as well as Andersen-exclusive TruScene^® insect screens.

Standard Insect Screens

If you have standard aluminum insect screens: 

• Gather supplies—garden hose, soft-bristle brush, mild cleaning solution, tarp or other ground cloth (optional), microfiber towel.
• If desired, place a tarp or drop cloth down on the ground to set drying screens on.
• Carefully remove screens, gently brushing off any large bits of debris or cobwebbing. 
• Spray with a garden hose (nozzle on a low-pressure setting) for a basic, quick cleaning.
• For extra shine and a super clean view, follow the rinse-off with a scrub. Use a mild soap and water solution and a soft-fiber brush. Gently clean with the brush in a circular pattern from top to bottom.
• Rinse well with garden hose.
• Remove excess water by carefully shaking each screen and wiping with a towel or microfiber cloth. To help with drying, lean at an angle against a wall or set on a tarp, preferably in a sunny area.
• Once dried, inspect the screens again to ensure that they have not accumulated any dirt or insects from sitting outside. When you are satisfied that they are fully cleaned, replace them in their respective windows, making sure to lock hardware.

TruScene^® Insect Screens 

If you have TruScene^® insect screens the process is slightly different.

TruScene^® screens are made from a micro-fine stainless steel wire mesh with a tighter weave than standard aluminum insect screens. They offer over 50% more clarity than our standard aluminum insect screens to let more fresh air and sunlight in while keeping the insects out.

To keep your TruScene® insect screens looking their best:

• Gather supplies—wool, feather, or synthetic duster or soft cloth.
• Carefully remove screens. 
• Use duster or cloth to wipe down screens. (DO NOT use a hose or water.)
• Replace screens, making sure to lock hardware.

That’s it—you’re done!

I can see clearly now, my glass is clean!

No one wants an obstructed view! It's important to make certain that the windows sparkle as they let in the spring sunlight. In order to make sure your windows are squeaky clean, read on for window glass cleaning tips.

Window Glass

Ready to brighten your view? Follow these steps to clean the glass surface:

• Gather supplies—microfiber or other soft cloth (2-3); mild cleaning solution; squeegee.
• Wipe loose dirt and grime from the glass with a soft, dry cloth or duster.
• Apply a cleaning solution, such as mild soapy water, a white vinegar and water solution, or a liquid window cleaner to the glass.
• Wipe with a soft cloth in a circular motion, beginning at the top of the window.
• Immediately remove the cleaning solution with a squeegee or a clean, lint-free cloth. Use a cloth to wipe the squeegee dry after each swipe.
• To minimize glass-cleaner residue on the glass, do not clean in direct sunlight. Instead, try cleaning windows on cloudy, but dry days. 
• ALWAYS AVOID solvents, abrasive solutions, or razor blades in order to avoid damage to the glass.
• Enjoy beautiful, streak-free views!

For more tips, check out our video guide (at right) on cleaning your window insect screens or visit Renewal by Andersen’s Window Care & Maintenance page. Happy Spring Cleaning