How to Retire if You Do Not Own a Home

Planning for retirement can feel like a balancing act! You have to save for your retirement needs while currently paying expenses like a mortgage or monthly rent. Plus, you'll need to decide what type of housing will suit your retirement lifestyle best. We'll give you suggestions for renting, downsizing, or finding other ways to pay off a mortgage early so you can enjoy peace of mind during your golden years.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Paying off Your Mortgage

1. Look for a smaller home to save on your mortgage and utilities. If you currently have more space than you need, ask yourself how much is really necessary. Maybe you're living in a 3-bedroom home and you really only need a 1-bedroom for yourself. If you purchase a smaller place, you'll most likely save money every month on housing.^[1]
   
   • Moving to a smaller place can also save you money on heating, cooling, and electricity costs.
2. Relocate to a more affordable area. Make your retirement funds go father by reducing your housing costs. After all, your job isn't keeping you in your current city and you might be able to save a lot of money!^[2]
   
   • Research the state's tax codes when you look at relocating. Some states might have lower taxes or a lower cost of living.
3. Refinance your mortgage if you're a homeowner. Consider it if you can get a full percentage point lower than your current rate. Yes, you will have to pay a refinancing fee based on the principal you still owe, but if you get a better rate, you can save thousands in the long run.^[3]
   
   • Ensure that your new mortgage terms match the time that's left on your current mortgage. For instance, if you've paid 10 years on a 30-year loan, don't take out a new 30-year loan. Instead, fix the term at 20 years so you don't end up paying more in interest.
4. Switch to a short-term loan if you want to pay off a mortgage. You'll have a higher monthly payment, but you can pay off the mortgage faster. Plus, shorter loans usually have better interest rates so you pay less in interest over the life of the loan.^[4]
   
   • For instance, instead of paying off a 30-year mortgage, modify your terms so it's a 15-year mortgage.
5. Pay down your current debts. It's hard to save for retirement if the interest on loans or credit cards is costing you. Look at your highest interest debts and make a plan to pay these down first or tackle your smaller balances if it motivates you to pay off debt faster.^[5]
   
   • Think of paying off debt as a form of investing. If you've paid off $1,000 that was financed at 16% interest, you're getting a 16% return on that money.
6. Make additional mortgage payments to quickly pay off your mortgage. Extra payments toward principal will save you money on interest. They don't have to be huge payments either! Even paying an extra $50 a month could save you thousands of dollars in interest over the life of your mortgage. Look at your monthly expenses and find ways to cut back on spending.^[6]
   
   • You might negotiate a lower cable bill or drop streaming services that you no longer use, for instance.

[Edit]Renting a Home

1. Weigh the personal pros and cons of renting versus buying. You might find that renting is cheaper than maintaining and owning a home, or you might realize that paying off your home early is a better fit for you. Don't forget to take your emotional needs into account—where will you feel happiest? Is it important for you to own property?^[7]
   
   • If you want flexibility in retirement, especially to travel, renting is probably a great option.
   • However, if it's really important to you that you have a home to leave for your family, then it makes sense to explore options like refinancing, paying your mortgage off early, or looking for a home in a more affordable area.
2. Find a roommate to split the cost of rent. This is a great option if you have friends who are looking for accommodations. Being able to split the rent payment as well as utilities can really help you save for retirement or stretch your retirement dollars even further.^[8]
   
   • Try to get a roommate that you get along with. This makes for the easiest living situation for everyone!
3. Prepare for paying rent in retirement. Anticipate inflation and ensure that you put aside enough to cover rent.^[9] Although there's no way of knowing what inflation will be when you retire, you can probably bet that inflation will make rent more costly. In the U.S. inflation usually fluctuates between 0% and 6%. You can search for the current inflation rate and use that in your savings calculator when you figure out how much monthly rent payments will cost.^[10]
   
   • For example, if your rent currently costs $1,500 a month and you plan to retire in a few years when you don't think inflation will be too high, you might calculate it at 3%. This gives you a monthly retirement rent payment of $1,700.
4. Consider moving in with family to save on housing. Talk with family members so everyone's on the same page. Discuss whether you'll contribute to their housing costs and where you'll stay. You may be able to live in your own part of their home, or you may have a single bedroom. Either way, living with family is a great way to save for retirement or to help your retirement money last longer.^[11]
   
   • Plus, you'll have the comfort of knowing that your family is close by.
5. Invest the money you're saving on housing. Fund your savings account or add to your 401(k).^[12] If you're saving money by renting, put the extra money into your retirement savings. The earlier you do this, the better since your savings will accumulate interest that compounds.^[13]
   
   • For example, you might tell yourself that you have to save $250 a month toward retirement. Treat this like any other monthly expense and try to save more if you have extra income for one month.^[14]

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/my-money/2010/08/24/5-great-ways-to-downsize-effectively
2. ↑ https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/retirement/t071-s014-what-s-your-retirement-housing-strategy/index.html
3. ↑ https://www.aarp.org/money/credit-loans-debt/info-10-2011/refinancing-home-ask-sid.html
4. ↑ https://www.knowyouroptions.com/options-to-stay-in-your-home/overview/modify-overview/modification
5. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/personal-finance/how-millennials-can-achieve-financial-security-without-owning-a-home-a1281314810/
6. ↑ https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/prepaying-your-mortgage/
7. ↑ https://www.aarp.org/work/retirement-planning/info-2014/rent-or-buy-house-in-retirement.html
8. ↑ https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/retirement/t071-s014-what-s-your-retirement-housing-strategy/index.html
9. ↑ [v161451_b01]. 30 June 2020.
10. ↑ https://tradingeconomics.com/united-states/inflation-cpi
11. ↑ https://www.yahoo.com/now/retirees-saving-money-aging-place-230014626.html
12. ↑ [v161451_b01]. 30 June 2020.
13. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/personal-finance/how-millennials-can-achieve-financial-security-without-owning-a-home-a1281314810/
14. ↑ [v161451_b01]. 30 June 2020.

source How to of the Day https://ift.tt/3ouhmI1

How to Harvest Leeks

So you planted some delicious leeks in your garden and are excited to cook with them, but how can you tell when they’re ready to use? Luckily, there are a few sure signs to look for around harvest time. We know you have a few questions about digging up and storing your leeks, so just keep reading for all the answers you need!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]What do leeks look like when they’re ready to harvest?

1. The top leaves will have a dark-blue color. Check the leafy growth at the top of the leek stalk to see if it has a darker color. If the leaves still look light green, then your leeks are still growing, so just leave them in the ground.^[1]
   
2. The white stalk should feel firm and be tall. The edible part of a leek is the white part of the stalk near the bottom. Squeeze the stalk to check that it feels firm rather than mushy. Once the white section grows up from the ground, you’re ready to harvest your leeks!^[2]
   
3. Leek stalks should be at least in diameter. That’s about the same size as a quarter. Check your leeks near the end of their growing season to see if they’re the right size. If your leeks are any smaller, let them fill in before you start your harvest.^[3]
   
   • It’s okay for your leeks to grow larger than in diameter if you want larger plants.

[Edit]When are leeks ready to harvest?

1. Leeks take around 70–120 days to fully mature for harvest. Harvest times all depend on the variety of leek you’re growing. Early season varieties like Varna, King Richard, Columbus, and Rival may only take around 70–80 days. Late season leeks, like Otina, Titan, 'Durabel', and Bandit, may take up to 4 months before they’re ready.^[4]
   
   • Mid-season varieties take around 90–100 days before harvest, and include Dawn Giant, Jolant, Lancelot, and Splendid.

[Edit]How do you pull leeks out of the ground?

1. Dig around the leek with a trowel to loosen the soil. Push your trowel into the soil a few inches out from your leek stalk, and break apart the soil. Work the trowel around the leek in a circle until you can easily move and pull the leek out.^[5]
   
2. Twist and pull the leek out of the soil. Firmly grab the base of the leek and give it a slight twist to get the roots out of the ground. You should be able to easily lift the leek straight out of the soil after that. If you can’t, loosen the soil with your trowel a little bit more.^[6]
   
3. Trim the roots and any dead leaves right away. If there are any yellow or wilted leaves on the leek, simply pull them off by hand. Be sure to leave the healthy leaves attached to the stalk for now. Then, use a pair of garden scissors or a knife to cut the roots off at the base of the leek stalk.^[7]
   

[Edit]How long can leeks be left in the ground?

1. You can leave leeks in the ground until you’re ready to use them. Leeks keep growing if you leave them alone, so don’t rush to harvest them all right away. When you want to use leeks in your recipe, just dig up as much as you need and leave the rest in your garden. They can even survive when the temperatures drop and there’s frost on the ground.^[8]
   
   • Leeks will not survive in the ground if temperatures drop below .^[9]

[Edit]How do you prepare leeks for storage?

1. Wrap leeks in plastic wrap before putting them in your fridge. Leeks may give off an odor that other foods in your fridge might absorb. Leave your leeks whole until you’re ready to cook them. Put a layer of plastic wrap around the entire leek stalk to keep odors locked away. You can keep fresh leeks in your fridge for up to 2 weeks.^[10]
   
2. Cut and clean the leeks before cooking them. Some soil can easily get caught between the leaves of leeks, so always wash them. Slice the whole leek lengthwise and separate the layers of leaves. Rinse the leaves underneath cool running water to remove any leftover dirt.^[11]
   

[Edit]How do you store leeks in the freezer?

1. Clean and trim your leeks first. Start by making a vertical slit down the length of the entire stalk. Trim off the dark green leaves on top and get rid of them since they aren’t edible. Peel all the outer layers on the remaining part of the stalk until you reach the tender parts underneath. From there, you can chop the leeks to whatever size you want before rinsing them in cold water.^[12]
   
2. Blanch your leeks in boiling water to preserve their flavor. Blanching can help your leeks maintain their texture and flavor for longer. Fill a pot with some water and bring it to a boil. Toss in your leeks and let them boil for 2–3 minutes before taking them out to cool and patting them dry with a towel.^[13]
   
3. Keep leeks frozen in airtight containers. Scoop your leeks into freezer-safe bags or containers so there’s about of space left on top. Label the bags with the date so you can track how long you’ve had them. Keep your leeks in the freezer until you’re ready to use them.^[14]
   
   • Frozen vegetables usually last about 1 year before they start losing flavor.^[15]
   • Leeks may develop a mushy texture of bitter flavor after they’ve been frozen.^[16]

[Edit]How do you store leeks long term?

1. Leave leeks in the ground with mulch to preserve them through mild winters. Since leaks will go bad more quickly after harvesting them, leave them in the ground if you can. When colder weather starts coming in, build a hill around the leek stalk with soil and mulch to protect it. Many leeks are safe in temperatures as low as .^[17]
   
   • Be sure to harvest leeks if the soil is about to freeze solid.
2. Dry chopped leeks to use in soups and sauces. Dried leeks retain their flavor and nutrients the best long-term. If you want to have dried leeks to sprinkle onto your recipes, wash and cut your leeks into slices. Place them on a tray in a single layer and put them in your oven at until they’re crisp.^[18]
   

[Edit]Tips

• Always trim and rinse leeks before you use them because soil could easily be trapped in between the leaves.^[19]

[Edit]Warnings

• Avoid using any leeks that have dry or discolored leaves since those could be signs of disease or damage.^[20]

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://extension.umn.edu/vegetables/growing-leeks
2. ↑ https://extension.umn.edu/vegetables/growing-leeks
3. ↑ https://extension.umd.edu/resource/leeks
4. ↑ https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/leeks/
5. ↑ https://extension.umn.edu/vegetables/growing-leeks
6. ↑ https://extension.umn.edu/vegetables/growing-leeks
7. ↑ https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/leeks/
8. ↑ https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/leeks/
9. ↑ https://extension.psu.edu/season-extenders-and-growing-fall-vegetables
10. ↑ https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/resources/pdfs/leeks_(hni51).pdf
11. ↑ https://extension.umn.edu/vegetables/growing-leeks
12. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/how-to-clean-leeks-like-a-pro-article
13. ↑ https://extension.usu.edu/yardandgarden/research/leeks-in-the-garden
14. ↑ https://extension.usu.edu/yardandgarden/research/leeks-in-the-garden
15. ↑ https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/HYG-5333
16. ↑ https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/resources/pdfs/leeks_(hni51).pdf
17. ↑ https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/leeks/
18. ↑ https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/resources/pdfs/leeks_(hni51).pdf
19. ↑ https://extension.umn.edu/vegetables/growing-leeks
20. ↑ https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/resources/pdfs/leeks_(hni51).pdf

source How to of the Day https://ift.tt/3lvbLyU

How to Hang Christmas Lights Inside Windows

Putting up Christmas lights inside your home is a great way to get into the holiday spirit! Plus, they will make the interior of your home feel cozy and cheerful. Whether you want to avoid the difficulties of trying to put up lights in the cold, or just hope to make your house look festive inside and out, hanging Christmas lights in your windows is a simple way to decorate for the best season of the year!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Finding the Correct Lights

1. Measure the edges of the windows where you want to hang the lights. That way, you’ll know how many strands of what size you need to fully outline all your windows. Use a measuring tape to get exact measurements, as you don’t want to be a few inches or centimeters short of making your window look perfect.^[1]
   
   • Make sure there’s a power outlet nearby to plug the lights into if you don’t plan on using battery-operated lights.
2. Choose mini-lights or C6 lights to better outline your windows. There are other types of Christmas light bulbs available to use as well, if you’d prefer to lend your windows a slightly different aesthetic. For example, LEDs have a more bluish tint. There are also wide-angle LEDs, transparent, ceramic, globe, net lights, and RGB LEDs.^[2]
   
   • Not only are mini-lights cheap, but the light they give off is more ethereal and delicate since they’re smaller.
   • C6 lights are the smallest version of the traditional strawberry-shaped Christmas bulb, so they look classic without being overwhelming.
3. Pick battery operated LEDs for a cleaner look. Sometimes, seeing an extension cord attached to the lights can ruin the look of a wonderful display. Furthermore, because battery-operated lights don’t use electricity, they give off less heat and are less likely to pose a fire hazard.
   
4. Match your wires to the woodwork of your window. If you have white woodwork, a string of Christmas lights with green wire will stand out and be less subtle than a string with white wire. Dark woodwork requires darker wire.^[3]
   
   • If the wires match the woodwork, the lights themselves will be more emphasized.
   • The shorter the distance between each lightbulb, the denser the lights will be and the more focus will be taken away from the wires.
5. Test that your lights and cords are working. You don’t want to get them all set up, only to plug them in and discover a section of the lights are dark. All you have to do is plug the lights into an outlet and make sure each bulb is glowing.
   
   • If one of the bulbs is broken or dim, see if you can purchase a replacement bulb rather than an entirely different strand of lights.
   • Frayed or otherwise damaged cords are a safety hazard and should not be used at all.^[4]

[Edit]Putting Up the Lights

1. Purchase plastic stick-on clips/hooks for the inside of the window frame. The clips will be easy to remove at the end of the holiday season and won’t damage your windows or leave behind sticky residue. These can be found at most hardware stores.^[5]
   
   • Each window usually requires 6-8 clips.^[6]
2. Place the plastic clips on the inside of the window frame. To do this, remove the backing from one side of the adhesive strip and press that side firmly on the window frame. Wait 30 seconds, then remove the paper from the second side of the adhesive and press the flat end of the plastic clip against the second side.
   
   • You only need to place the clips on the top and sides of the window frame.
   • The clips should be about apart and spaced out regularly.^[7]
3. Let the clips set for at least an hour. If you hang anything on them prior to the time running out, the clips may come down. That might damage not just the window frame from the clips being removed incorrectly, but also the Christmas lights if they are dropped from a substantial height onto a hard surface.^[8]
   
4. Slide the lights into the clips. Squeeze the wires of the string of Christmas lights into each clip. Then, work your way carefully around the window frame, squeezing more wires into place as you go.
   
   • Try to get the light bulbs to all face in the same direction.^[9]
5. Add additional decorations to the window, if you’d like. For example, you can place some battery operated candles on the windowsill or some festive garlands. If the garlands come with their own lights, make sure you like how they look in conjunction with the ones around the window.
   

[Edit]References

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Put up Christmas Lights Outside
• Fix Christmas Lights
• Replace a Fuse on Christmas Tree Lights
• Celebrate Christmas
• Get Ready for Christmas

• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMX2kKXX6sw&feature=youtu.be&t=28
• ↑ https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/outdoor-projects/how-to/g1684/how-to-hang-outdoor-christmas-lights/
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXJynshY-Nk&feature=youtu.be&t=75
• ↑ https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/guidance/product-safety/christmas-lights/
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXJynshY-Nk&feature=youtu.be&t=22
• ↑ https://christmastreesource.com/how-hang-lights-in-window/
• ↑ https://christmastreesource.com/how-hang-lights-in-window/
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXJynshY-Nk&feature=youtu.be&t=43
• ↑ https://christmastreesource.com/how-hang-lights-in-window/

source How to of the Day https://ift.tt/2P5cK8d

How to Get a PS5

Since its initial release, both the Standard Edition and the Digital Edition of the PlayStation 5 have been almost impossible to get, and with the holidays just around the corner, finding them will not get any easier. Thankfully, as the shortage has continued, more methods to help you purchase Sony’s newest gaming console have popped up. This wikiHow article will show you how to maximize your chances of securing a PS5.

[Edit]Steps

1. Register for invite-only PS5 restocks through Sony. Due to incredibly high demand, Sony created a system in which fans can sign up with their PlayStation Network (PSN) account for a chance to buy a PS5 directly through Sony.^[1]
   
   • If you do not have a PSN account, no need to worry! Making one is as easy as clicking Sign In in the top right of the above webpage, then clicking Create New Account and following the instructions on-screen.
   • After signing up, you will have to wait a while to find out if you are selected. If you are, you will eventually receive an email from Sony with a date, time, and instructions for purchasing a PS5.
   • Unfortunately, the consoles often sell out before every person who receives an email can purchase one, so make sure you are ready to go at the appointed time!
2. Check PS5 restock sites. Since PS5 consoles have been so hard to find, many websites have created articles devoted to keeping you up-to-date on restock dates and locations. Try checking each of the links below for any updates whenever you have a few minutes to spare.
   
   • Tom’s Guide update article
   • TechRadar update article
   • GamesRadar+ update article
   • PS5 restock Reddit page
3. Download Twitter and follow restock accounts. Download the Twitter app on your phone, find accounts dedicated to PS5 restock news, and tap Follow. Be sure to also tap the small bell icon to enable notifications so you get new information as soon as they Tweet it!
   
   • Matt Swider’s account is currently the most popular account for regular restock updates.
4. Make an account and check for restocks on store websites. PS5 consoles will sell out in minutes, so make online accounts in advance with each store you check and save your payment information to have the highest chance of securing one. Sometimes, a restock will happen without warning, so by occasionally checking different sites linked below, you might get lucky.
   
   • Amazon: Standard Edition | Digital Edition
   • Gamestop: Standard Edition | Digital Edition
   • Best Buy: Standard Edition | Digital Edition
   • Walmart: Standard Edition | Digital Edition
   • Target: Standard Edition | Digital Edition
   • Sony Direct: Standard Edition | Digital Edition
   • Adorama: Standard Edition | Digital Edition
   • Antonline: All PS5 options
   • Costco: All PS5 options
   • Sam’s Club: All PS5 options
   • Amazon (UK): Standard Edition | Digital Edition
   • Argos (UK): All PS5 Options
   • Curry’s (UK): All PS5 Options
   • Amazon (Canada): Standard and Digital Editions
   • Best Buy (Canada): Standard Edition | Digital Edition
   • Walmart (Canada): All PS5 Options
5. Purchase a PS5 from a person-to-person service. While the consoles are out-of-stock in stores nationwide, some people are selling them (albeit at a serious markup) on apps and sites like eBay or Mercari. However, this is the riskiest purchasing option, so you should consider this only if you cannot find a PS5 anywhere else.
   
   • Be very careful when purchasing PS5 consoles directly from other people! There is a chance each listing is a scam, so try to look for sellers who have previously sold several items and received positive feedback.

[Edit]Tips

• The best tip for obtaining a PS5 is to consistently check your sources for restock information! Restocks will sometimes happen unannounced, so frequent checks raise your chances of finding a console.

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://gamerant.com/playstation-direct-ps5-sign-up-directions/

source How to of the Day https://ift.tt/3dcFkkn

How to Pressure Wash Windows

When it’s time to clean your windows, look no further than the power washer you might already have at home. Using a power washer to clean off your windows can speed up the process immensely, so you won’t have to spend all day on this chore! Pressure washing your windows the wrong way can lead to damage or cracks in the glass, so it’s important to take a few safety precautions before you start. Read through this article for step by step instructions on how to use a pressure washer to safely clean your windows in a single afternoon.

This article is based off an interview with our professional window cleaning specialist, Ben Barlow, owner of Barlow Window Bros. Check out the full interview here.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Cover up anything outside you don’t want to get wet.

1. That includes electrical outlets and any outdoor furniture. Do a quick walk around your home and put electrical tape over exposed outlets. Move furniture or patio decorations out of the way, since pressure washing can cause some splashback.^[1]
   
   • Be sure you have a clear pathway to walk around in, too. If your hose gets caught on something sharp, it could puncture it.

[Edit]Close your windows and make sure they’re water tight.

1. If your windows have any cracks or leaks, the inside of your home could get wet. Before you start pressure washing, take a look at your windows and the window fittings—is the glass uncracked and the fittings tight without any bubbles? If you notice any issues, fix those before you pressure wash your windows to avoid any water damage.^[2]
   
   • In general, wooden window fittings are more susceptible to damage than acrylic or vinyl ones.

[Edit]Remove any screens from the windows.

1. Pressure washers can rip through screens, so take them off first. If you have a two-story house, you might need to grab a ladder and climb on up. Pop the screens out carefully, then set them aside to put them back on later.^[3]
   
   • If you want to clean your window screens, you can use a garden hose and regular dish soap mixed with water.

[Edit]Fill your pressure washer tank with window cleaner.

1. Check your instruction manual to see what kind of cleaner you need. For a lot of pressure washers, you can buy a specific soap and water mixture that’s made for windows. If yours doesn’t have that (or you can use anything), simply fill up your pressure washer tank with water, then mix in a few drops of regular dish soap. Then, unscrew the cap on the water tank, and use a funnel to pour your mixture in up to the fill line.^[4]
   
   • If your windows have any hard water spots, try using a commercial window cleaner instead.^[5]

[Edit]Attach the widest nozzle you have to the pressure washer.

1. Usually, that’s the 40-degree nozzle. Too small of a nozzle, and you run the risk of cracking the glass in your windows. Pick out the widest nozzle you have, then screw it onto the end of your pressure washer hose.^[6]
   
   • If you haven’t used your pressure washer before, practice using it on concrete before you start using it on your windows.^[7]

[Edit]Set your pressure washer to the lowest pressure setting.

1. Usually, this is 1300 to 1700 PSI and 1.5 GPM. Too high of a pressure setting, and you run the risk of cracking the glass in your windows. Find the dial on your pressure washer and turn it all the way down to set it to the lowest setting. Keep the pressure down low the whole time you’re washing your windows to avoid any damage.^[8]
   

[Edit]Wear eye protection.

1. Pressure washers are power tools, so use caution with yours. Put on eye goggles, and don’t point your pressure washer at anyone if it’s plugged in. Using a pressure washer incorrectly can result in injury, so it’s very important to be cautious.^[9]
   
   • Always wear close-toed shoes, just in case the spray goes anywhere near your feet.

[Edit]Stand at least away from the windows.

1. Standing too close can damage your windows. When you first start out, back up until you’re at least away from your windows. If you need to, you can walk a little closer, but stay at least away the entire time you’re washing your windows.^[10]
   
   • The closer you are to your windows, the stronger the spray is. A super strong spray has the potential to crack glass.

[Edit]Spray the windows at a 40- to 60-degree angle.

1. Stand off to the side, not directly in front of your windows. When you’re ready to start washing, stand a little bit off to the side to lessen the pressure from your nozzle even more. Turn on the pressure washer using the power button on the side and move the nozzle from side to side, covering your entire window. When you’re done with one window, walk to the next one to keep cleaning.^[11]
   
   • Use caution around wooden window trimmings, as pressure washers can damage or chip the wood.
   • It’s important to do this step quickly—since you’re spraying soap and water onto the windows, letting the mixture dry can lead to streaking.
   • Try to start early in the morning, especially during the summer. That way, you can beat the sun, and your soap and water mixture won’t dry before you can rinse it.^[12]

[Edit]Use a turbo nozzle to reach the second story.

1. It’s too dangerous to take a pressure washer onto a ladder. If you have a multi-story home, take off your normal nozzle and attach a turbo nozzle to the end of your pressure washer. Stand underneath the upper story windows, then use the far-reaching nozzle to cover them in soapy water.^[13]
   
   • A turbo nozzle sends the water out in a spiral, which can make it spray further away from the pressure washer. That’s why a turbo nozzle is so helpful for reaching the second story.
   • Pressure washers have a little bit of kickback, which is why it’s dangerous to take them on a ladder.

[Edit]Rinse the windows off with plain water.

1. Rinsing your windows off well will help prevent any streaks. When you’ve covered all your windows in soapy water, use a regular garden hose (or your pressure washer filled with regular water) and give all your windows a good rinse. If you are using your pressure washer, empty the water tank and rinse it out using a hose before filling it up with plain water. Use the same wide nozzle and keep the pressure on the lowest setting. Once your windows are rinsed, you can leave them to dry in the sun!^[14]
   
   • If you’re really worried about streaks, use a squeegee and a microfiber cloth to wipe the clean water off before your windows dry.
   • If you know you have hard water (water full of minerals that can leave deposits on surfaces), attach a water softener to your garden hose before rinsing.^[15] That way, you won’t leave any hard water spots, and your windows will look shiny and clean.

[Edit]Warnings

• Using the wrong nozzle or pressure settings on your pressure washer can crack or damage your windows. Use extreme caution, especially if you live in an older home.

[Edit]References

1. ↑ [v161858_b01]. 23 July 2021.
2. ↑ [v161858_b01]. 23 July 2021.
3. ↑ https://readytodiy.com/how-to-pressure-wash-windows-and-not-damage-it-0051/
4. ↑ https://readytodiy.com/how-to-pressure-wash-windows-and-not-damage-it-0051/
5. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-windows/
6. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HyrGK_zlz8&t=203s
7. ↑ [v161858_b01]. 23 July 2021.
8. ↑ https://readytodiy.com/how-to-pressure-wash-windows-and-not-damage-it-0051/
9. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HyrGK_zlz8&t=358s
10. ↑ https://readytodiy.com/how-to-pressure-wash-windows-and-not-damage-it-0051/
11. ↑ https://readytodiy.com/how-to-pressure-wash-windows-and-not-damage-it-0051/
12. ↑ [v161858_b01]. 23 July 2021.
13. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=148&v=xqIgBeST5ac&feature=youtu.be
14. ↑ https://readytodiy.com/how-to-pressure-wash-windows-and-not-damage-it-0051/
15. ↑ [v161858_b01]. 23 July 2021.

source How to of the Day https://ift.tt/3Iqp2mz