Hiring a Residential Window Cleaning Company
Hiring a professional window cleaning service is a great way to save time and effort while improving the overall look of your home. Dirt and grime build up over the years, making your windows look old and dingy.
About Residential Window Cleaning
Some window cleaning companies specialize in residential work; others specialize in commercial jobs. For your home, you'll want to select a company that focuses on residential windows. Commercial cleaners don't have as much experience handling delicate personal belongings.
Residential window cleaning companies use professional-grade chemicals to remove dirt and grime from the inside and outside of the windows. Most services also clean the window sills and tracks. Some offer screen cleaning free of charge; others don't.
Professional window cleaning is recommended every six months to one year. If you wait much longer than that, it may not be possible to restore the windows back to their original condition. Keep in mind that the spring and summer months tend to be the busiest for window cleaning services, so you'll want to schedule the appointment well in advance around that time of year.
Choosing a Residential Window Cleaning Service
Begin your search by asking friends and family to recommend window cleaning companies. Once you've narrowed it down to a few, be sure to check references, as well as each company's track record with consumer organizations like the Better Business Bureau.
You should always get a quote before agreeing to hire any residential window cleaning service. However, it's best to let the cleaners work within a set price range. This will allow them to deal with any unexpected issues that arise.
Keep an eye out for special offers and sales - particularly in the off season - but be wary of advertised prices that seem to good to be true. The price may include only an interior cleaning, or it may apply only to homes with a certain amount of square footage. Be sure to read the fine print.
Cost of Residential Window Cleaning
There are several ways in which residential window cleaning companies charge for the services. There might be a per-window fee or an hourly fee. Some companies charge a lump sum based on the square footage of your home. Others charge based upon the type of window, with varying rates for sliders, double-hung windows, French panes, etc.
Generally, budget about $4 to $8 per pane, keeping in mind that most windows have multiple panes. That works out to about $8 to $16 for each standard window. The price for cleaning French panes (lots of small panes) is often $1 to $2 per pane. Screen cleaning, if it's not included in the price, usually costs $2 to $3 per window.
Residential Window Cleaning Service Hiring Tips
- Shop around - Request quotes from multiple residential window cleaning services to make sure you're getting the best deal. Compare not only prices, but also the companies track record and professionalism.
- Get a written quote - Request all of your quotes in writing. A company will be more likely to stick to the quoted price if it's on paper.
- Request proof of insurance - Make sure any company you hire is fully insured. Ask to see a copy of the policy as proof. You don't want to be liable if a worker is injured on your property or your property is damaged.
- Set a clear path - Help prepare for the window cleaners and protect your belongings by creating a clear path to the windows. Move furniture away from the windows and remove knick knacks and decorations.
Author: Ashley Smith