The short answer: Twice a year at minimum. Three to four times a year if you're close to the water or have a lot of trees.

Most homeowners in the area benefit from:

• A spring cleaning (April–May), to clear out the winter grime, salt residue, and spring pollen that coat windows every year without fail.
• A fall cleaning (October–November), before the holidays, when you want the house looking its best and before cold weather sets in.

If you're on the water, Sands Point estates, Harbor Acres, or anywhere with a bay view, add a summer cleaning in July or August. The salt spray alone justifies it, and clean windows make a huge difference when you're looking out at the water every day.

Signs your windows need attention sooner:

• You can see streaks or haze on the glass even on a bright day
• Your view has gone from crisp to cloudy
• There's visible mildew or buildup around the frames
• You just had construction or landscaping work done nearby