How to Clean Andersen Windows and Screens

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Identify the window, finish and screen

Locate the Andersen product label or series information and open its care instructions. Determine whether interior surfaces are finished wood, Fibrex composite, vinyl, aluminum or another factory finish. Identify standard, TruScene, retractable or gliding screens. Do not assume one sash-release, screen latch or chemical limit applies across every Andersen line.

Step 2: Remove dry grit before wet cleaning

Unlock and open the window as directed. Vacuum loose dust from the sill, track, frame corners and screen with a soft brush at low suction. Lift debris rather than dragging it across glass. Dry removal prevents sand from scratching finishes or forming mud in drainage paths. Keep the nozzle from pulling weatherstrip or screen mesh.

Step 3: Wash the glass with a soft cloth

Mix mild detergent with clean warm water and apply it to a soft cloth or nonabrasive sponge rather than flooding the window. Wipe the glass in overlapping passes and rinse residue with a separate clean damp cloth. Dry with clean microfiber. Avoid razor blades, abrasive pads and strong chemicals unless the exact glass guide names a compatible method.

Step 4: Match the frame method to its finish

Use a well-wrung mild-soap cloth on Fibrex, vinyl-clad or factory-finished surfaces as the series permits. For finished interior wood, use the finish-specific guidance and minimal moisture. Do not let water stand at joints or soak unfinished wood. Test any stain treatment discreetly and keep solvent, bleach and abrasive cleaner away from seals and coatings.

Step 5: Remove a standard insect screen correctly

Support the screen with both hands and use the exact tabs, pins or clips described for the unit. Do not bow the frame or pull it by mesh. Mark its orientation before carrying it to a protected cleaning area. Retractable and specialty screens may be cleaned in place and should not be forced out like a standard removable screen.

Step 6: Clean and rinse the approved screen

Andersen recommends mild soapy water and light pressure with a soft cleaning tool for many insect screens. Clean both faces, then rinse thoroughly with a gentle garden-hose flow. Do not use a pressure washer or hold a concentrated jet close to mesh. Tap excess water lightly as directed and leave the screen to air-dry fully.

Step 7: Wash sill tracks and accessible hardware

Use a soft-bristle brush with warm mild soapy water on dirt deposits in sill tracks, then rinse residue with a controlled clean damp cloth or approved gentle water flow. Keep weep paths open without probing sealed cavities. Wipe locks, handles and rollers rather than lubricating them automatically; use only the product-specific lubricant Andersen names.

Step 8: Dry, reinstall and inspect seals

Dry frame corners, glass edges, sill surfaces and hardware. Install the fully dry screen in its original orientation, confirming every pin or latch seats without bowing. Wipe weatherstrip gently and inspect for displacement, cuts or paint adhesion. Do not close a wet screen against finished wood or trap standing water beneath the sash.

Step 9: Test operation and drainage

Open, close, lock and unlock the unit without forcing it. Confirm the sash moves normally, the screen remains secure and visible drain routes are not blocked. Stiff operation after cleaning may mean a screen, weatherstrip or track component is misaligned—not that more soap or household oil is needed. Recheck the exact assembly diagram.