External window cleaning

In recent years, the industry has shifted from traditional ladder-and-squeegee methods to high-reach water-fed pole systems. This evolution offers a safer, more private, and often more effective finish for modern British homes, particularly those with difficult-to-reach third storeys or conservatories.

What Does the Work Involve?

• Site Assessment: Identifying fragile leaded lights, loose putty, or restricted access areas before starting.
• Frame and Sill Prep: Removing loose cobwebs, bird droppings, and surface grit to prevent scratching during the wet clean.
• Pure Water Application: Using telescopic poles to pump deionised water onto the glass, agitating dirt with soft-bristled brushes.
• Detailed Scrubbing: Focusing on the "corners" where spiders and debris tend to congregate.
• Spot-Free Rinse: A final pass with purified water which, lacking minerals, dries to a completely clear finish without the need for manual drying.
• Access Solutions: For heights exceeding 60ft or awkward angles, the use of cherry pickers (MEWPs) or specialised "gooseneck" poles.

Typical Costs

Pricing for window cleaning is influenced by the number of panes, the height of the property, and the frequency of the service. One-off "deep cleans" or "end of tenancy" cleans are significantly more expensive than regular monthly or bi-monthly rounds.

Note: Most UK window cleaners operate on a "minimum call-out" fee of £15–£30 to cover travel and equipment setup. Factors like "hard water" areas may slightly increase costs if more deionising resin is required for the filtration system.

How Long Does It Take?

• Small Terraced/Flat: 15–20 minutes. Modern pole systems allow for very rapid work on straightforward properties.
• Average 3-Bedroom Semi: 30–45 minutes. This allows for detailed attention to frames and the front door.
• Large Detached Home: 1–2 hours. Properties with many small "Georgian" panes or extensive glass extensions take considerably longer.
• Conservatory Roof: 45–90 minutes. This is a labour-intensive task involving specialised detergents and rinsing.

DIY or Professional?

While DIY cleaning is possible for ground-floor windows using a bucket and squeegee, reaching upper floors safely is the primary hurdle. The Working at Height Regulations 2005 highlight the risks of ladder use; professionals mitigate this by staying on the ground using 40ft+ poles.

Professional deionised water systems provide a finish that is virtually impossible to replicate with tap water, which contains minerals that leave white spots (limescale) upon drying.

If you have a large conservatory or windows above a glass porch, a professional with the right reach equipment is essential to avoid damaging your property or risking a fall.

Choosing the Right Tradesperson

• Check Insurance: Ensure they have Public Liability Insurance (minimum £1 million). This protects you if a pole breaks a window or causes injury.
• Method of Work: Ask if they use "Reach and Wash" or traditional methods. Traditional is often preferred for interior glass, while poles are superior for exteriors.
• Reliability: Look for a "round" based cleaner who uses automated SMS reminders the night before they arrive.
• Payment Terms: Most modern cleaners use GoCardless or BACS. Be wary of those insisting only on cash-in-hand without a receipt.

Key questions to ask:

• "Do you clean the frames and sills as part of the standard price?"
• "Are you a member of the British Window Cleaning Academy (BWCA)?"
• "What is your policy if it rains on the day of my appointment?"

UK Regulations

While window cleaning isn't as heavily regulated as gas or electrics, certain standards apply to protect both the homeowner and the worker.

• Working at Height Regulations 2005: This legislation encourages the use of ground-based systems (poles) over ladders wherever "reasonably practicable."
• Health and Safety at Work Act: Professionals must ensure their equipment (hoses, tanks, poles) does not create a trip hazard for pedestrians on the pavement.
• GDPR: If they store your contact details and address for a regular round, they must comply with UK data protection laws.

Common Problems

• Spotting After Cleaning: This usually happens if the water wasn't fully deionised or if dirty water dripped from the top of the frame after the rinse. A reputable cleaner will return to fix this for free.
• Leaking Vents: High-pressure water-fed poles can sometimes push water through trickle vents if not handled carefully. Ensure vents are closed before the cleaner arrives.
• Hydrophobic Glass: Some new glass coatings repel water so effectively that it "beads" rather than "sheets," making it harder to get a spot-free finish without extra rinsing.
• Access Issues: Locked side gates or parked cars blocking access to the pavement can prevent a full clean. Communication is key to avoiding "half-done" jobs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it matter if it rains during the clean?

No. Rainwater is relatively pure, whereas the "dirt" on your windows is usually dust and pollen. As long as the cleaner uses deionised water, the rain will not affect the final spot-free finish.

How often should I have my windows cleaned?

Most UK homeowners opt for a 4-week or 8-week cycle. Coastal properties or those near busy main roads usually require a 4-week frequency to prevent salt and soot buildup.

Do I need to be home for the cleaner?

For external cleans, usually no. As long as the cleaner has access to all sides of the property (gates unlocked) and a payment method is agreed upon, you do not need to be present.

Will the water-fed pole damage my window seals?

No. The brushes used are specifically designed to be soft enough for glass and UPVC. However, if your seals are already perished or brittle, the agitation may highlight existing damage.

Can they clean windows above my conservatory?

Yes. This is one of the main advantages of the water-fed pole system. The long-reach poles can extend over the conservatory roof to clean the windows above without the cleaner needing to step on the roof structure.

Do window cleaners need my outdoor tap?

Most professional window cleaners carry their own "on-board" tank of purified water in their van. However, for very large jobs, they may ask to use your tap to refill their tanks.