window cleaning information
Below is some information about windows, and below our FAQs section.
All windows are different, and window cleaning techniques change accordingly. That makes it hard for us to give our clients a good indication of costs associated with cleaning their windows over the telephone. This page lists the most common types of windows found in residential buildings and we hope they will serve as a guide to assist our clients wanting a rough idea over the phone.
So, ‘when you ask me how many panels, what exactly do you mean by panel?’
In the image below of sliding windows, there are 2 panels.
Louvres overlap each other to form a Jalousie window. A lever operates the opening and closing of the window to permit air flow. Louvres allow light at all times to penetrate and with the easy operation of the lever, large areas can be opened to allow a feeling of outdoors, indoors. They are however, not so energy efficient, not very secure and cleaning this style of window takes a little longer. We need to know how many individual louvres you have in your house to quote accurately.
Fixed pane windows, obviously do not open. They are not as easy to clean as casement windows, however offer superior protection against unwanted outside noise and air.
Casement windows mostly swing outward. Cleaning this style of window is a little easier than some, as often both sides can be reached from within the building. They also offer excellent ventilation, as they can be opened out to 90 degrees or more, freeing the entire area.
Sliding windows are generally less efficient than some other windows in ventilating the room, however are quite easy to clean. Usually, one part is removable to allow the cleaning of both sides of the window from inside the building. On occasions where security screens are installed, this necessary to ensure a good clean. Some sets of sliding windows may consist of up to eight or more panels. A fixed panel on the upper left and right with two movable panels in the middle, and four fixed panels beneath. It’s important that you count each panel of glass to ensure an accurate estimate.
Double hung windows are a very common style of window. Either the top or bottom half of the window slides to allow easy ventilation of the room. These types of windows often have security screens installed on the exterior, making it difficult to clean.
French style windows are generally a casement type window characterised by trim separating or laid over the glass. They are quite popular as doors. Cleaning is more time consuming than many other windows. (To save time, we recommend taking photos of these as opposed to counting each panel.)
FAQs - Here, we've listed some questions and answers to some common questions.
Q. Do I need to cover any furniture or carpets?
A. No. Our team always removes their shoes when entering your home. They will also lay down sheets where there is a need to lift out your windows.
Q. What happens if it’s raining?
A. Generally, we do not like to work in wet weather. It can be dangerous for us especially if there is any ladder work involved. We will proceed if we feel it’s safe, however, if it is not we will try our best to reschedule at your convenience.
Q. How and when do I pay for the job?
A. We will in most cases, have an invoice already prepared. Payment is generally expected on completion of the work. We currently accept cash, bank transfers, Visa and MasterCard.
Q. I want to use the PhotoEstimate service, but don’t know what sort of windows I have, what should I do?
A. We know that there are many different types of windows. That’s why we’ve provided this window cleaning information page to help you. If in doubt, simply take a photo and send it to us.
Q. Do I need to provide any equipment?
A. Our team will bring all the necessary equipment to do the job.
Q. I don't have a tank. Will you need to use my town water supply?
A. No. We use such a small amount of water, it's easy for us to store this in our vehicle.
Q. I have security screens on some windows that don't lift out. Can you clean these.
A. We will use a method of cleaning that removes most of the dirt build up on these windows. They will not have the same finish as your other windows, however. Some of our customers remove these screens once a year so that the glass behind can receive a good clean. If you would like this to be done, we recommend you remove the screens prior to our arrival.
Q. We have a cracked window. Will you still clean it?
A. Although it's generally our policy not to touch glass that is already broken, we will discuss it with you when we are onsite.
Q. What if something is damaged in my home?
A. Well, so far we haven’t had the need to use it, however, all representatives of 1300 BIG RED - Window Cleaning are covered by Public Liability insurance. It is a little peace of mind for our clients and our staff.
Q. There are cobwebs near my windows, will you clean this?
A. We certainly can. Please mention this to us when we provide your estimate. Don’t forget the Window Cleaning Services section of our site.
Q. When and how do I pay?
A. Payment is due on completion of the job. We accept cash, bank transfers, Visa and MasterCard. Please see our Terms and Conditions for more.
Q. Is there anything else you can tell us about window cleaning?
A. If you have any further questions, please contact us. We also have our window cleaning blog with occasional tips and pointers about window cleaning.