Is it worth hiring someone to clean my windows?
Yes, hiring a professional can be worth it, especially for hard-to-reach windows. They have the right tools and techniques to deliver a streak-free finish inside and out, saving you the considerable time and physical effort of doing it yourself.
How do I choose a service to clean my home's windows?
When choosing home window cleaners, here are some helpful steps to take:
Verify their license and insurance: A professional window cleaner typically has general liability insurance to cover any potential property damage, along with worker's compensation insurance. Licensing requirements vary by region.
Get several estimates: A written estimate should detail the number and type of windows, what services are included (like cleaning screens, tracks, and sills), and the final price. Be wary of quotes given over the phone without a visual inspection.
Read their reviews: Look for reviews that mention punctuality, professionalism, and attention to detail. Red flags include complaints about property damage, missed appointments, or excessive upselling.
Look at their portfolios: Check for before-and-after photos of homes similar to yours. The pictures should show clear, sparkling glass, as well as clean frames and sills.
Find out if they have warranties: Many companies offer a satisfaction guarantee, promising to fix any issues you find. Some also have a "rain guarantee," where they’ll return to touch up any spots if it rains right after the service.
Ask other questions: Before you hire, you can ask, “What cleaning solutions do you use, and are they safe for my home, pets, and plants?” and “What does your standard service include besides the glass itself?”
What is included in window cleaning?
Typically, professional window cleaners will clean both the inside and outside of your windows, taking care to use different techniques as needed for different types of windows. They can remove hard water stains and perform deep cleans after new construction.
Window cleaners may charge extra to remove, install, and clean screens and storm windows. They may also charge more to clean windows that are high off the ground. They will also usually clean window tracks, and can alert you if there’s a problem with your windows or trim.
How do I prepare for window cleaning?
You can do some light cleaning yourself. For example, you can wipe your window blinds. Also, clear the area inside and outside of belongings that could get in the cleaner’s way. Perform an inspection of your shutters and window screens to see whether you’d like them cleaned as well.
Do you tip a window washer?
Whether you tip a window washer is up to you, but you can certainly give them a tip if they do a good job. This is a particularly nice gesture for workers who clean your windows under harsh conditions (e.g. hot weather). A tip between $5 and $20 is appreciated. If it’s a crew, you can throw in $5 or more per person, or just go with $20 if it’s a single person. Qualities of a job well done include timeliness, professionalism and friendliness.
What should I expect when a window cleaner comes to my home?
During your cleaner's visit, they'll typically start by inspecting your windows and setting up protective coverings for your floors and furniture. They’ll then wash the glass with a professional-grade solution, use a squeegee to remove all the water and dirt for a streak-free shine, and wipe down the frames and sills. Depending on your home, they may use ladders or water-fed poles to safely clean exterior windows on upper floors. Before they leave, they’ll pack up their gear and do a final check to make sure everything looks tidy.
