Window Washing vs. Window Cleaning, Whats the Difference?

When it comes to keeping your windows spotless, you’ve likely encountered two terms: window washing and window cleaning. While these two might sound similar, they refer to different levels of care and maintenance. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to improve the aesthetic appeal of your house or a business owner keen to maintain a professional environment, understanding the difference between window washing and window cleaning can help you make the right decision for your property.

In this comprehensive guide by Skypole Window Cleaning, we’ll explore the distinctions between window washing and window cleaning, the methods and tools used in both processes and which service is best suited for your needs. Let’s break down each term to understand the full scope of what each entails.

Understanding Window Washing

Window washing is generally considered a more basic process that involves removing visible dirt and grime from the window surface. While this service can keep your windows looking clean at a glance, it doesn’t dive deep into all aspects of window maintenance. It’s a fast, straightforward process that helps to maintain windows between deep cleanings.

Here’s a table outlining the key differences between Window Washing and Window Cleaning:

The Window Washing Process

The process of window washing is relatively simple and typically includes the following steps:

Prepare a Soapy Water Solution: Window washing starts with the preparation of a mild detergent or soapy water solution. This mixture is crucial for breaking down the dirt and grime that naturally accumulates on windows.

Apply the Solution to the Window Surface: Using either a sponge, brush, or window mop, the cleaning solution is applied evenly over the entire glass surface. This step helps to loosen debris, making it easier to remove later.

Use a Squeegee to Remove Dirt and Excess Water: A squeegee is the primary tool used in window washing. By dragging the squeegee across the glass in smooth, even strokes, the cleaning solution, along with any dirt, dust, or smudges, is wiped away.

Wipe Down the Edges for a Streak-Free Finish: Finally, the window’s edges are wiped down with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent streaks or watermarks. This ensures that the window is clean and clear from top to bottom.

Tools for Window Washing

Window washing doesn’t require an extensive set of tools, making it a quick and relatively inexpensive service. The essential tools include:

• Buckets: Used to mix and hold the cleaning solution. A bucket is one of the basic items necessary for window washing.
• Squeegees: A must-have for achieving streak-free results, the squeegee is designed to effectively remove both water and debris from the window surface.
• Microfiber Cloths: These soft, absorbent cloths are used to wipe down the edges of the window, preventing streaks and smudges after the initial cleaning.
• Mild Detergent Solutions: The cleaning solution used in window washing typically includes water mixed with a mild detergent. It’s safe on glass but effective in cutting through dirt.

What Does Window Washing Include?

At its core, window washing is primarily focused on the glass surface. Here’s a breakdown of what it typically includes:

• Basic Cleaning of Glass Surfaces: The glass is cleaned using a soapy solution and squeegee method. This process is effective for removing dirt, dust, and minor smudges.
• Quick, Surface-Level Maintenance: Window washing is a fast service intended to keep your windows clean and presentable between more thorough deep cleanings.
• No Detailed Frame or Screen Cleaning: One significant difference between window washing and window cleaning is that window washing does not usually include cleaning the frames, screens, or tracks in detail.

Window washing is a convenient service for maintaining window clarity between more intensive cleaning sessions. However, if you’re looking for a deeper, more thorough cleaning, window cleaning services offer a more comprehensive solution.

Deep Dive into Window Cleaning

Window cleaning, on the other hand, is a more in-depth service that involves not only cleaning the glass surface but also addressing the window’s frame, tracks, and screens. This service often incorporates specialized techniques and tools designed to remove tough stains, mineral deposits, and other built-up grime that simple window washing might not address.

The Window Cleaning Process

The window cleaning process is more detailed than window washing and includes the following steps:

Prepare a Soapy Water or Specialized Cleaning Solution: Like window washing, window cleaning begins by preparing a cleaning solution. However, in some cases, a specialized solution may be used to address tougher stains or mineral deposits on the glass or frames.

Apply the Solution to the Window Surface: The cleaning solution is carefully applied to the glass surface, just like in window washing, but with additional care given to any problem areas that might require scrubbing or extra attention.

Scrub to Remove Tough Dirt and Stains: If there are stubborn stains, such as hard water deposits, sap, or other debris, the cleaning technician will use a brush or scrubber to tackle these areas and ensure they are completely cleaned.

Squeegee Cleaning for a Streak-Free Finish: Once the windows are scrubbed, the squeegee is used to remove the cleaning solution along with all the dirt and grime. This ensures the glass is not only clean but free of streaks.

Detailed Cleaning of Frames, Tracks, and Sills: Unlike window washing, professional window cleaning involves cleaning the entire window unit, including the frames, tracks, and sills. This level of detail prevents the buildup of dust, dirt, and debris around the window.

Removing and Cleaning Window Screens: If your windows have screens, these will also be removed, washed, and reinstalled during the window cleaning process. This ensures that your windows are thoroughly cleaned from top to bottom, inside and out.

Final Inspection and Touch-Ups: After the cleaning is completed, a final inspection is performed to ensure every part of the window is spotless. Any areas that require further attention will be touched up at this time.

What Does Window Cleaning Include?

Window cleaning provides a more extensive level of care than window washing. Here’s a look at what’s typically included:

• Thorough Cleaning of Glass Surfaces: The glass is not only washed but also scrubbed to remove tough stains and debris. Specialized cleaning solutions may be used to remove mineral deposits, water spots, or other blemishes.
• Cleaning of Window Frames and Sills: The frames and sills are cleaned to remove dust, dirt, and buildup. This level of attention helps to maintain the entire window unit and prevent damage over time.
• Removal and Cleaning of Screens: The window screens are removed, washed, and reinstalled. This ensures that not only the glass but also the screens are free of debris and buildup.
• Treatment of Stubborn Stains and Mineral Deposits: For windows that are exposed to hard water or harsh elements, window cleaning includes the use of specialized solutions that target and remove mineral deposits or tough stains.

Tools for Window Cleaning

Window cleaning uses the same basic tools as window washing, but often with additional equipment for more specialized tasks:

• Squeegees and Buckets: Just like in window washing, squeegees and buckets are essential tools for cleaning the glass surface.
• Scrubbers or Brushes: These are used to tackle tough stains and dirt, particularly on frames, tracks, and sills.
• Microfiber Cloths: Used for wiping down the edges of the glass and polishing the frames and sills.
• Specialized Cleaning Solutions: These may include products designed to remove hard water stains or mineral deposits, ensuring that windows are not only clean but also free of blemishes.

Cost: Window Washing vs. Window Cleaning

When deciding between window washing and window cleaning, cost is often a significant factor. While window washing is generally more affordable due to its simpler process, window cleaning involves more labor and attention to detail, making it a more expensive service.

Window Washing Costs

The cost of window washing is typically lower because it is a quicker, more straightforward process. On average, window washing services charge per window or hour, and the prices vary depending on the size and number of windows being cleaned.

• Lower Cost: Window washing is a more budget-friendly option for homeowners or businesses looking to maintain the appearance of their windows without investing in a deep clean.
• Shorter Time Commitment: The process is quicker, meaning that fewer labor hours are needed, which keeps costs down.

Window Cleaning Costs

Window cleaning, being a more thorough service, often comes with a higher price tag. This is because the process takes longer and involves more tools, products, and labor. The exact cost depends on factors like the number of windows, their condition, and the amount of detail involved.

• Higher Cost: Window cleaning is a more labor-intensive process that often requires specialized tools and cleaning solutions, resulting in higher costs.
• Longer Time Commitment: Because window cleaning is more detailed, it takes longer to complete, and the labor costs reflect this added time and effort.

Make the Right Choice for Window Maintenance

When deciding between window washing and window cleaning, it’s important to assess your specific needs. If your windows are in relatively good condition and just need a quick touch-up, window washing might be sufficient. However, if your windows haven’t been cleaned in a while or have accumulated significant dirt, mineral deposits, or stains, investing in professional window cleaning is likely the better option.

When to Choose Window Washing:

• Routine Maintenance: Window washing is ideal for maintaining the appearance of your windows between more thorough cleanings.
• Budget-Friendly Option: If you’re looking to save money while still keeping your windows presentable, window washing provides a cost-effective solution.
• Quick Touch-Up: If you need your windows cleaned quickly for an upcoming event or just want to freshen up your home, window washing is a fast and simple choice.

When to Choose Window Cleaning:

• Deep Cleaning Needed: If your windows have significant buildup, tough stains, or mineral deposits, window cleaning is necessary to restore their appearance and function.
• Comprehensive Care: If you want a detailed cleaning that includes the frames, sills, and screens, window cleaning offers the level of care that window washing doesn’t cover.
• Improving Longevity: Regular, thorough window cleaning can extend the lifespan of your windows by preventing the accumulation of dirt and grime that could cause long-term damage.

In conclusion, while both window washing and window cleaning can improve the appearance of your home or business, they offer different levels of care and attention. Window washing provides a quick, surface-level solution for maintaining clean windows, while window cleaning offers a more comprehensive approach, addressing every aspect of your window unit. By choosing the service that best suits your needs, you can keep your windows looking their best year-round.