How to Clean Windows with Security Screens: A Townsville Guide

You can clean windows with security screens without taking the screens off. On hinged screens, you swing the panel open. On fixed screens, you clean the inside glass as normal and reach the outside glass with long-handled tools. At Townsville Windows and Screens, homeowners across Townsville ask us this all the time, so we've put together a simple, safe routine for getting the glass behind your screens clean without damaging the screen, the frame or the window.

Key Takeaways

• Never remove screw-fixed security screens yourself. Use a hinged panel where you have one, or long-handled tools where you don't.
• Clear loose dust and cobwebs first. Then wash the glass with mild detergent and clean water, working from top to bottom.
• Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners and high-pressure water around screens, frames and window seals.
• Gentle hand cleaning and a thorough rinse are the safest approach for glass behind security screens.

Why Cleaning Windows with Security Screens Matters

Keeping the glass behind your security screens clean lets more natural light in, keeps your views clear and stops grime building up around window seals. Most Townsville homes have security screens on at least some windows and doors. They're great for security and airflow, but fixed screens can make the outer glass awkward to reach, so many people simply stop cleaning it.

In North Queensland, salt film, red dust and general grime collect on glass quickly, especially in coastal suburbs like North Ward and Pallarenda. Left for long periods, that build-up gets harder to shift and can leave the glass looking permanently hazy.

This guide covers the window glass behind fixed and hinged security screens. For cleaning the mesh itself, see our step-by-step guide to cleaning Crimsafe security screens.

Understand Your Security Screens and Window Setup

How you clean windows with security screens depends on whether each screen is hinged or fixed, and on the type of window behind it. Before you start, walk around your home and note which windows have hinged access and which have fixed screens.

Common setups around Townsville include:

• Sliding windows with a fixed security screen across the whole opening
• Awning or casement windows that open outwards behind a fixed or hinged screen
• Hinged Crimsafe window screens that swing open for cleaning access and emergency exit

Screw-fixed security screens shouldn't be removed by homeowners. Undoing the fixings can weaken the security of the installation and damage the window frame. If a screen needs to come off, contact the original installer or Townsville Windows and Screens.

The Crimsafe range we install includes both fixed and hinged window screens. If cleaning access matters to you, ask about hinged screens when you're planning an installation.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

You only need a few basic cleaning tools and clean water to wash windows behind security screens. Keep separate cloths for glass and for screens so grit from the mesh doesn't scratch the glass.

Cleaning tools:

• Soft microfibre cloths, plus a dry cloth for finishing
• A non-scratch sponge
• A small soft-bristled brush
• A bucket
• A squeegee, with an extension pole for higher panes

Cleaning solution:

• Mix a teaspoon or two of dishwashing liquid into a litre of warm water. Skip bleach, ammonia, solvents and abrasive powders.

Access and extras:

• A stable step ladder where needed
• A spray bottle for spot cleaning
• Old towels to protect sills and floors

Take care on ladders near screens and never lean your weight against the mesh. For second-storey windows, getting professional help is the safer choice.

Step 1: Remove Loose Dust and Cobwebs

Start by removing loose dust and cobwebs, because wiping wet grit across glass or frames can scratch them. Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment, or a soft hand brush, to clear spider webs and dust from the screen, the frame edges and the window sill.

Work from top to bottom so debris falls onto areas you haven't cleaned yet. Vacuum the bottom track as well, since it collects grit during Townsville's dry, windy months and can block drainage.

Step 2: Access the Glass Behind Your Security Screens

The way you reach the glass depends on the type of screen, and you never need to remove a fixed screen to do it.

• Hinged screens: unlock the screen, swing it open as designed and secure it so it can't swing shut. You can then clean both sides of the glass properly.
• Fixed screens, inside glass: clean from indoors as you normally would.
• Fixed screens, outside glass: where the window opens or there's a gap, use a long-handled squeegee or a slim microfibre pad on a flat tool to reach the outer glass. On sliding windows, you can often reach the outer face of the opening sash from inside when it's slid across.

If the outside glass simply can't be reached because of a fixed screen, height or tight access, book a professional window cleaner or ask Townsville Windows and Screens for advice. Don't undo screws or tamper with fixed security screens.

Step 3: Wash the Glass Safely and Effectively

Gentle, methodical washing works better than hard scrubbing around security screens. Try to clean in the shade or early in the day, because Townsville sun dries cleaning solution on hot glass before you can wipe it off, which leaves streaks.

• Inside glass: wipe the pane with a damp microfibre cloth or sponge from top to bottom, then squeegee it dry. Use a soft cloth on stubborn spots and never use steel wool or scouring pads.
• Outside glass with hinged screens: with the screen open and secured, wash the glass the same way. Support yourself properly and don't lean on the open screen.
• Outside glass with fixed screens: wet the glass with a spray bottle or extension tool, let the solution sit for a minute on salty film, then wipe in overlapping passes.

A garden hose on a gentle spray can be used carefully on outside glass, as long as water isn't forced into window joints or walls. Never use a pressure washer on screens, security doors or window frames. Finish by wiping the glass edges and frame corners, where soapy water and fine grit tend to collect.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry for a Streak-Free Finish

Rinsing off all the detergent and drying the glass properly is what gives you a streak-free finish. Use a fresh bucket of clean water and a clean cloth, or a light mist from a spray bottle, to remove any soap residue. Leftover detergent attracts dust and leaves a film.

Squeegee the glass dry, then go over the edges and any wet patches with a dry microfibre cloth. Dry the sill and track so water doesn't sit there, and let hinged screens dry before you close and lock them again.

Step back and check the glass from a few angles, then buff any missed spots with a dry cloth.

Ongoing Maintenance Tips for Windows and Security Screens

Light, regular cleaning is easier and safer than a big clean once a year, and it stops grime building up on glass and screens. As a rough guide for Townsville homes:

• Coastal homes: rinse screens and wash glass more often, because salt builds up quickly.
• Homes near busy roads: expect dust and road grime to need attention every couple of months.
• Inland or sheltered homes: a full clean every few months is usually enough.

Security screens require minimal maintenance, usually just cleaning with mild soap and water. While you're cleaning, also:

• Look for staining or corrosion around screws, corners and hinges
• Check that drainage holes in frames and tracks are clear
• Wipe around window seals so they stay clean and flexible
• Note any damage to the mesh or frame so it can be checked

For more on caring for the screens themselves, read our guide on how to clean and maintain Crimsafe security screens. For general window care, see how to maintain your windows and screens.

When to Call Townsville Windows and Screens

Some jobs are better handled by local professionals, especially where safety or access is an issue. Get in touch with Townsville Windows and Screens if you have:

• Windows on upper storeys, or windows above patio roofs
• Glass behind large fixed screens that you can't reach safely
• Signs of frame movement, water leaks or corrosion that need checking
• Fixed screens you'd like to change to hinged screens for easier cleaning

Townsville Windows and Screens is locally owned and operated, QBCC licensed, and has been serving North Queensland since 1988. We can install hinged Crimsafe window screens in Townsville and suggest the best setup room by room, whether you're in Kirwan, Annandale or out at Bushland Beach. Contact us for a free measure and quote.

FAQs about Cleaning Windows with Security Screens

Can I safely remove my fixed security screens to clean the glass?

No, homeowners shouldn't remove screw-fixed security screens. It can weaken the security of the installation and damage the frame. Ask the original installer or a local screen specialist whether the screen can be changed to a hinged design, or use a professional window cleaner for glass you can't reach.

How often should I clean my windows and security screens in Townsville?

A light dust of screens and sills every month or so helps, with a full wash of glass and frames every few months. Coastal homes need more frequent rinsing because of salt. Regular gentle cleaning takes less effort than an occasional heavy clean.

What cleaning products should I avoid on windows with Crimsafe screens?

Avoid bleach, ammonia, strong solvents, abrasive powders, scouring pads and steel wool. They can damage powder-coated frames, window seals and glass edges. Mild detergent in warm water with soft cloths is the safest option.

Can I use a garden hose to rinse my windows and security screens?

Yes, on a gentle spray, as long as you don't force water into joints, locks or walls. Never use a pressure washer on security screens, security doors or window frames. A bucket and cloth or a spray bottle gives you more control.

What should I do if I notice rust or corrosion around my security screens?

Have it looked at sooner rather than later, especially on older screens or homes exposed to sea air. Call Townsville Windows and Screens on (07) 4725 6044 to arrange an inspection. Catching it early usually keeps a small issue from becoming a bigger repair.