Keeping your windows clean is part of keeping your property looking fresh, clean and well maintained. Whether you’re a business owner or homeowner, window care is important to ensure your property looks how you want it to. In the window cleaning industry two terms are used: “window washing” and “window cleaning”. While these terms are often used interchangeably they refer to different services for different needs. Understanding the difference between window washing and window cleaning will help you decide which service is best for your windows, whether you have dirty windows, exterior windows or commercial windows.
Introduction
Windows are the eyes of your home or business. They let natural light in, offer a view of the outside world and contribute to the curb appeal of your property. Over time windows can get dirty, stained and debris filled making them look unkempt and block your view. To keep your windows looking their best regular care is needed. While window washing and window cleaning are both about clearing the glass the two services are different in scope and level of detail.
Window Washing: The Basics of Keeping Windows Clear
Window washing is often thought of as the basic form of window maintenance. This service typically involves cleaning the exterior glass surfaces to remove dirt, dust, water stains and smudges leaving your windows clear and streak free. Professional window washers use specialized tools like water-fed poles, extension poles, microfiber cloths and squeegees to wash the glass.
Key Features of Window Washing:
- Primary Focus: Cleaning the glass to remove visible dirt, streaks and grime.
- Method: Uses basic cleaning tools such as water-fed poles, microfiber cloths and squeegees to clean the glass surface.
- Frequency: Window washing is done more often for properties that experience frequent dust, dirt or pollution. Ideal for homes, residential windows or commercial properties with windows that are easily accessible.
- Tools Used: Water-fed poles, microfiber cloths, extension poles, squeegees and long handled brushes.
Window washing is a quick and easy solution for business owners, homeowners or property managers who need to maintain the appearance of their windows and enhance the curb appeal of their property.
Window Cleaning: The Full Monty of Window Maintenance
Window cleaning is more than window washing. It’s a full service that not only cleans the glass but the entire window system. That means the frame, sills, tracks and all surrounding areas. The goal is to keep the window looking good and functioning well by removing any debris or grime that could affect the window or indoor air quality of the space.
Window Cleaning Features:
- Main Focus: A full clean of the entire window system including glass, frame, sills and tracks.
- Method: Uses various tools including scrubbing tools, pressure cleaning systems and water-fed poles to clean both inside and outside the window. Special attention is given to stubborn stains, dirt and stuck on debris.
- Frequency: Window cleaning is done less often than window washing but is essential for overall window system maintenance. More important for commercial properties, high rise buildings or homes with large windows or fancy window features.
- Tools Used: Professional window cleaners use specialized equipment like pressure washers, microfiber cloths, scrubbing tools and extension poles for high windows.
For buildings with floor to ceiling windows, glass balustrades or specialized window film, window cleaning ensures all areas are free from dirt, water marks and stubborn marks. Whether you have residential properties, commercial office buildings or high rise buildings, window cleaning ensures the entire window system is working well.
Benefits of Window Cleaning vs. Window Washing
While both window washing and window cleaning will improve your windows, each service has its advantages depending on your needs:
- Visual Appeal: Window cleaning will have the glass and surrounding areas spotless, higher curb appeal and aesthetically pleasing for your property. It will also improve commercial windows which is important for professional image.
- Indoor Air Quality: By cleaning window frames and tracks, window cleaning will remove allergens, dust and mold that may accumulate, improving indoor air quality of your home or business.
- Long Term Benefit: Regular window cleaning will extend the life of your windows by preventing debris from building up that can affect window function over time. For residential properties, commercial properties and facilities like aged care or educational facilities regular maintenance keeps windows working well.
- Deep Cleaning of Stubborn Stains: Window cleaning is the solution for removing stubborn stains that have built up over time like water marks, salt buildup or mineral deposits. Professional window cleaning service use specialized equipment including soft washing and pressure washers to remove tough stains.
- Piece of Mind: Hiring a professional window cleaning company means the job gets done right with industry standard tools and techniques so you can have peace of mind your windows will be clean and maintained.
When to Choose Window Washing vs. Window Cleaning
- Choose Window Washing: If you just need a basic clean to remove dirt, dust and streaks from the surface of the glass, window washing is the way to go. It’s perfect for maintaining residential windows or commercial property windows.
- Choose Window Cleaning: If you need a deeper clean that includes not just the glass but also the frames, sills and tracks, window cleaning is the way to go. This is especially important for larger homes, high-rise buildings or commercial establishments with specialized glass features like Shimmer Glass.
Why Choose a Professional Window Cleaning Company?
A window cleaning company offers many advantages:
- Skilled Execution: Trained window cleaning technicians know how to take care of different types of windows, including Shimmer Glass or windows with a coating.
- Specialized Tools: Professional window washers have access to specialized equipment like water-fed poles and pressure washers that makes cleaning easier and faster especially for hard to reach areas or high-rise buildings.
- Time Efficiency: Cleaning windows can be a time consuming task but professional window washers will get the job done quickly and efficiently so you can save time on weekends or after business hours.
- Health Benefits: Regular cleaning of windows including window frames and sills helps maintain a healthy environment by removing allergens and dust buildup, better air quality inside.
Conclusion
In short, understanding the difference between window washing and window cleaning will help you determine the right level of care for your windows. Window washing is good for basic cleaning, while window cleaning is a more thorough and detailed service that covers the whole window system. Whether you have residential windows, commercial windows or dirty windows in a high-rise building, hiring a professional window cleaning company will keep your windows clean, streak-free and in top condition. To find trusted professionals in your area, search for window cleaners near me and choose a company with great reviews, proper equipment, and trained technicians for the best results.
FAQ
How often should I get my windows cleaned or washed?
Window washing should be done every few weeks, window cleaning every 6 months to a year depending on your needs and property type.
Can I do it myself?
Basic window washing can be done yourself, but professional window cleaning services will do a much better job especially for larger or harder to reach windows.
Is window cleaning more expensive than window washing?
Yes, window cleaning services are more expensive because it involves a more detailed cleaning of the whole window system including the frame, sills and tracks.
What equipment do professional window cleaners use?
Professional window cleaners use water-fed poles, extension poles, pressure washers and scrubbing tools to clean both the glass and surrounding areas.
How long does professional window cleaning take?
Time will depend on the size of the property and number of windows. A window cleaning company will give you an accurate estimate based on your property’s requirements.