Module 5 — Windows: Screens, Tracks, and Add‑Ons (Lesson)

What you’re doing today

You’re learning how to handle screens and tracks without turning a clean window job into a mess.

Why this matters

Screens and tracks are where most window jobs get complaints:

• drip-back
• dirty frames
• “you missed spots” (because dirt ran)

Tools & materials (minimum viable)

• Screen cleaning setup (simple)
• Track detailing tools (brushes, towels)
• Containment (don’t dump dirty water on patios)

Step-by-step: screens

1. Confirm scope: clean vs brightening/restoration.
2. Remove carefully.
3. Wash/rinse so dirt doesn’t run back onto glass.
4. Dry/inspect.
5. Reinstall correctly.

Step-by-step: tracks

1. Dry debris removal.
2. Damp wipe.
3. Detail corners.
4. Final wipe.

Decision points

• If oxidation is heavy:

  • set expectations; some “perfect” is restoration.

• If customer wants “like new” tracks:

  • price it accordingly.

Common mistakes + fixes

• Cleaning screens last then dripping onto clean glass

  • Fix: sequence screens thoughtfully.

• Rushing track corners

  • Fix: slow down where the eye goes.

What good looks like

• No drip-back.
• Tracks look cared for.
• Customer sees the difference immediately.

SOPs

• Screen cleaning: 04_sops/windows/screen-cleaning-sop-v1.md
• Track detailing: 04_sops/windows/track-detailing-sop-v1.md

Do this next (assignment)

• Clean 4 screens and document drip-back prevention steps.
• Detail 2 tracks and take a close-up after photo.

References

• Proof Pack SOP: 04_sops/proof-pack/proof-pack-sop-v1.md
• Final Walk checklist: 04_sops/universal/final-walk-checklist-v1.md

Printables

• Operator Checklist Pack (truck copy): 03_curriculum/printables/operator-checklist-pack-v1.md

Field Guide & Interactive Calculator (tbsoftwash.com)

🪟 Pro Window Cleaning, Hard-Water Removal & 0-TDS WFP Guides:

• Beginner's Guide to Traditional Window Cleaning Tools →
• Commercial Storefront, Awning & 0-TDS Window Washing in Tampa Bay →
• How We Remove Hard Water Stains from Glass →
• Best Water-Fed Pole Hose Guide →

Gear Box (Amazon)

Traditional & Water-Fed Pole (0-TDS) Window Cleaning Kit

• Moerman Excelerator 2.0 (14-Inch) / Ettore Stainless Backflip Combo Tool — high-speed washer + squeegee combo tools.
• Ettore Complete Window Cleaning Starter Kit + Ettore 6" Pro+ Contour Glass Scraper + MR.SIGA Lint-Free Microfiber Glass Detailing Towels (12-Pack).
• Gardiner Water-Fed Pole — lightweight rigid carbon pole for 2–4 story pure-water glass and frame scrubbing.
• Ettore All-Purpose Squeegee (12-Inch) + Ettore Mighty Window Washer (10-Inch).
• Ettore 43012 Extension Pole + Ettore 59090 Wrap-Around Flow Brush.
• Arkwright Surgical Huck Towels — zero-lint detailing for edges, sills, and frames.
• Dawn Ultra Dish Soap — clean squeegee glide without heavy residue.
• Bar Keepers Friend Powdered Cleanser + Oxalic Acid 99% Powder — mineral and sprinkler hard-water spot restoration on tempered glass.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.