Done right, window washing is a big job even if you live in a small house, and it’s a good one to leave to the pros (especially if you'd have to climb to a second (or third) story on a ladder, or use extension handles to reach even higher).

Here's what you can expect to spend, what you'll get for your money, what you won't get for your money, and the easiest way for you to touch up your windows between professional cleanings.

The Cost

Expect to pay $150 to $300 for both interior and exterior window washing on an average-size house. Be aware that this could vary depending on where you live and what kind of windows you have; complicated window frames like multi-paned French frames or ones with unique shapes could add to the price.

When to Wash

A good rule of thumb is to have your windows washed twice a year. Spring and fall are good times because of more moderate weather. If you have screens, get your cleaning done when you install and take them down.

What a Window Washer Will Do

Most window washers will put up and take down screens, and you can expect a simple dust-off when they do.

A good window cleaning starts with brushing off loose dirt and spider webs.

Hard-to-clean windows with grease, dried-on paint, tree pitch or insect residue need to be well scraped before the washing begins.

There are many eco-friendly cleaning solutions that don’t have harsh chemicals, petroleum derivatives or phosphate-based detergents, so ask your window washer about all your options.

You’ll see your window washer’s favorite tool is his squeegee—it saves time, energy and, when used correctly, provides the most streak-free finish. If he's not using a squeegee, you might not get the quality cleaning you want.

Your window washer should be neat! He should have a stash of soft cloths so he can wipe away residual cleaning solution and water. That way, your sills and window seals aren’t left wet or even damp (you don’t want mold to start growing!).

You can ask your window washer to let you know about the condition of your sills, and also to keep an eye out for cracked or peeling paint, dampness or mold, and loose hardware. If you have screens, ask him to let you know if there are tears or holes.

What a Window Washer Won’t Do

Window washers generally will not repair screens or thoroughly clean them. And if your screens are aluminum and have oxidized or rusted, they'll need to be scrubbed clean with a stiff brush to restore them to their original condition. Check to see if your window washer can provide you with these additional services.

Window washers will not provide any restoration or maintenance, such as repairing seals or addressing rotted frames, peeling paint or any other damage to the frames of your windows. Having quality windows in the first place can make maintenance of them easier.

Between Professional Cleanings

For touch-ups between professional cleanings, you'll want to buy:

• A good squeegee (Ettore and Unger make quality ones). It should be used in a horizontal direction or fanning back and forth in one continuous motion. This diminishes the amount of dripping and thus lessens the potential damage by water and/or cleaning solutions to the sill.
• A scrubber and/or sponge
• A bucket
• Soft rags

Mild dishwashing liquid or an easy mix of white vinegar in warm water makes a good general cleaner. Or you can go to just about any hardware store and buy a commercial cleaner to keep on hand.

To learn more about windows and window care, we recommend Living With My Home. You'll also find many more do-it-yourself articles for home care and improvement.

[image: Bloom Productions | Photodisc Collection | Getty Images]