Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find some of the most frequently asked questions that we encounter. If you have further questions that are not anwered here, please contact us via phone or email and we would be happy to assist you.
General Service Questions
Do you provide free estimates?
Yes, we provide free estimates.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept checks and all major credit cards.
How do I pay for the service?
Once the job is finished, we will email you an invoice, and can also send it to you via text. The invoice can be paid online through Square using a credit card, over the phone with a credit card, or you can send a check in the mail to the address listed on the invoice.
When is payment due for the services provided?
Payment is due upon completion of the job.
How far in advance do I need to schedule an appointment?
Our availability depends on the season. In spring and late fall, we tend to get very busy and the calendar fills up several weeks in advance. If you have a big event coming up during these periods, or want to make sure the work gets done by a specific date, it might be a good idea to schedule early. If you give us a call, we can let you know the exact availabilty. If you are scheduling online and there are no availability on the online calendar, give us a call to confirm - we might have a slot saved up for emergency situations.
What happens if I need to reschedule or cancel my appointment?
We will work with you to reschedule, and we currently do not charge any cancellation fees. If you need to reschedule or cancel and appointment, it helps us tremendeously if we get as an early notice as possible so that we can rearrange our calendar.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my scheduled service?
Very few of our services are impacted by the weather, so we rarely cancel appointments for this reason. That said, we might be unable to access roofs if it is freezing, or use our ladders in high winds, etc. When this happens, we will let you know and work on finding an alternative date.
Do I need to be home during the service?
For roof, gutter, exterior window cleaning, and pressure washing services, you do not need to be home. If we are doing interior window cleaning, then the customer needs to be home or give us permission and access to the home.
How do I generally prepare for my service appointment?
- Parking: If needed, please advise our crew on the best location to park.
- Remove obstacles: Ensure the immediate vicinity around the house is free from obstructions. This includes vehicles, outdoor furniture, decorations, and potted plants. If we are cleaning interior windows, we need to be able to access the window panes. That means we can move a few smaller objects, but if the window sills are cluttered, or if there are valuable objects preventing us from accessing the windows, then our technicians are instructed to work around and skip those areas instead of trying to move the objects themselves.
- Neighbor notice: consider informing your neighbors about the scheduled service to minimize any inconvenience. If we need go access a neighbors property in order to do the work, we appreciate if you notify them beforehand.
- Secure pets: If you have pets, kindly arrange to keep them away from the area during the service.
- Special Instructions: Please communicate any specific instructions or concerns to our crew upon their arrival.
How do I prepare for my window cleaning service appointment?
- Clear Window sills & Vicinity: Remove objects, plants, or other obstructions from windowsills and the surrounding area. If we are cleaning interior windows, we need to be able to access the window panes. That means we can move a few smaller objects, but if the window sills are cluttered, or if there are valuable objects preventing us from accessing the windows, then our technicians are instructed to work around and skip those areas instead of trying to move the objects themselves.
- Provide Access: If certain windows or areas are locked or secured, please ensure our crew has the required access via keys or codes.
- Special Window Instructions: If there are specific windows that require extra care or have unique features, please communicate this information to our team.
- Leaky doors or windows: Please notify us if you know or suspect that any of your windows or doors might leak when water is applied to them.
How do I prepare for gutter cleaning, roof cleaning, pressure washing, and siding scrub service appointments?
- Clear Access Areas: Remove items from areas to be cleaned to ensure uninterrupted access.
- Windows and Doors: Ensure they are securely closed to prevent inadvertent water or debris entry. If we are cleaning roofs for instance, the leaf blowers we use might send debris in through any open windows, so make sure they are closed before we arrive.
- Trim Vegetation: Triming bushes, trees, and plants near walls might be a good idea to facilitate easier access for our technicians.
- Protect Delicate Plants: All our services are done with biodegradable solutions and in a way that is not harmfull to the environment. If you have any delicate plants however, we appreciate if you let the technicians know so that we can make sure they are properly protected.
What is your policy if something gets damaged during the service?
We do our utmost to make sure that nothing gets damaged during the performance of our services, however, accidents do sometimes happen. Our normal policy when this happens is to notify the homeowner as soon as possible. From there, we will help assess responsibility for the damage, and what can be done to fix it. It is not unusual for us to encounter properties where something is broken before we arrive, or that breaks under normal contact due to accumulated wear and tear. Examples include scratches on glass panes, roof shingles that come loose, drains that are clogged, etc. If something breaks due to our technicians negligence however, then we will normally either fix it, or pay for it to get fixed. If something breaks due to wear and tear however, we have a list of other vendors that we trust and can recommend if you want to have it fixed.
What should I do if I'm not satisfied with the service provided?
If you are not satisfied with the service, you may reach us at (206) 453 3936 or email us at office@seattlewindowcleaner.com.
Do you offer any guarantees or warranties on your work?
If you are not happy with the service for any reason, we always want to hear about it. We will come back out again as soon as possible to fix whatever issue there is, free of charge.
How can I provide feedback on the service received?
Our office will call the day after the services are completed to ask for feedback.You may also leave a review on our Google or Yelp page. You can also contact our office at (206) 453 3936, or office@seattlewindowcleaner.com
Do you offer any maintenance or reminder services for future cleanings?
Yes, we offer seasonal reminders via email and/or text, and also recurring maintenance plans.Please contact our office for more information.
Window Cleaning
Why should I get my windows cleaned?
Improved Appearance: Clean windows look great and can enhance the appearance of your home or business. They can also create a positive first impression for visitors.
Better Visibility: Dirty windows can obscure visibility, making it difficult to see in or out of your property. Regular cleaning can eliminate dirt and grime buildup, improving visibility and allowing more natural light into your space.
Preventive Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent window damage and extend the life of your windows. Professional window cleaners can also identify any issues with your windows, such as loose or broken casings or cracked windows, and recommend prompt repairs.
Improved Air Quality: Dirty windows can harbor allergens and contribute to poor indoor air quality. Professional cleaning can help decrease the allergens in your home or business, leading to improved health and energy levels.
Time-Saving: Cleaning windows can be a time-consuming task, especially for larger properties or multi-story buildings. Hiring a professional window cleaner can free up your time and allow you to focus on other tasks.
How often should I have my windows cleaned?
For residential homes, it is recommended to schedule window cleaning at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. If you live on a busy street or in an area with lots of pollen and trees, you might choose to clean your windows three times a year.
For commercial properties, it is often recommended to clean windows more frequently. For retail spaces and restaurants, the recommended frequency is at least once every month.
The frequency of window cleaning can also depend on various factors such as inclement weather, storms, rock salt, high wind, and remodeling activities. Living close to busy streets, having lots of trees and pollen in the vicinity, and residing in an area with high wind can also contribute to more frequent cleanings
How long does it take to clean my windows?
The time it takes to clean windows varies based on the number, size, and condition of the windows, as well as their accessibility. On average, for a standard home, cleaning all windows inside and out might take 2 to 4 hours. However, specific times can differ, so it’s best to consult directly with the window cleaning service for a precise estimate.
Do I need to remove the screens before you arrive?
No, screen removal and cleaning is always included in our window cleaning service, unless we have agreed otherwise.
Do you clean storm windows?
Unfortunately, we only clean the exterior of storm windows from the outside and the interior from the inside, unless they're removed for us by the homeowner. Given that our technicians often work alone and many storm windows are aged, weighty, and fragile, we don't permit our team to remove them for inside cleaning.
What isn't covered in the window cleaning service you provide?
Our normal service covers standard window cleaning. It does not include:
- Hard water stain removal
- Cleaning the inside of skylights or overhead glass
- Using razors
- Fixing screens
- Cleaning up post-construction
- Acid treatments on windows
- Removing stickers, glue, paint or construction residue
We do offer some of these services for an additional fee, and for some, you might need to sign a waiver. If you think you'll need any of them, please tell us when we schedule the service. We're here to help! Please also let us know in advance if you have leaky windows or doors, as we can't be held responsible for them once the work starts.
Which areas or locations do you serve for window cleaning?
We provide window cleaning services throughout the Seattle region, covering areas like West Seattle, Burien, Mercer Island, and Capitol Hill. Additionally, we cater to residents in Bellevue. If your location isn't mentioned, please reach out. We always aim to accommodate as many areas as possible.
How should I prepare my property before you begin the window cleaning service?
Clear the windowsills and surrounding areas: Remove any objects, plants, or decorations from the windowsills and the immediate vicinity. This will make it easier for us to access the windows and work without any obstructions.
Remove obstacles: Clear away furniture, chairs, or any other items that might be blocking access to the windows, both from the inside and outside of your home. This will make it easier for us to move around and clean effectively.
Secure pets: If you have pets, it's a good idea to secure them in a safe and comfortable area of your home during the window cleaning process. This will prevent any interference or accidents while the cleaners are working.
Provide access: Ensure that the window cleaners have easy access to both the interior and exterior of your home. If there are gates or locked areas, make sure to provide keys or codes as needed.
Communicate special instructions: If there are any specific windows that need extra attention or any unique features about your windows that the cleaners should be aware of, communicate this information beforehand.
Gutter Cleaning
Why is it important for me to clean my gutters?
Prevent water damage to your home: Clogged gutters can lead to leaky roofs and water damage, which can be costly to repair.
Protect your home's foundation: Water that overflows from clogged gutters can seep into the foundation of your home, causing cracks and other damage.
Avoid pest infestations: Clogged gutters are a breeding ground for pests, rodents, and mold, which can attract unwanted company to your home.
Ensure proper drainage: The main purpose of gutters is to safely remove rainfall from your property and whisk it away into the drainage system. Clogged gutters can prevent this from happening, leading to water damage and other issues.
Prolong the lifetime of your home's roof, windows, and siding: Regular gutter cleaning can help prevent damage to these important parts of your home.
How often should my gutters be cleaned?
It is recommended to clean them at least twice a year. However, depending on the factors mentioned below, you may need to clean them more frequently.
- Climate: The climate in your area plays a significant role in the frequency of gutter cleaning. If you live in an area with heavy rainfall or frequent storms, your gutters may accumulate debris more quickly and require more frequent cleaning.
- Trees and plants: The presence of trees and plants near your home can increase the frequency of gutter cleaning. Leaves, twigs, and other debris from trees can easily get into the gutters and cause clogs. If you have many trees around your property, you may need to clean your gutters more often.
- Roofing material: The type of roofing material you have can also affect how often you should clean your gutters. Certain materials, such as asphalt shingles, can shed more debris and granules, which can end up in the gutters. If your roof material is prone to shedding, you may need to clean your gutters more frequently.
Does your service include cleaning roof debris?
No, roof cleaning is a separate service. While our gutter cleaning service focuses on clearing debris from the gutters and downspouts, we recommend considering roof cleaning in combination with gutter cleaning. Debris on the roof can eventually find its way into the gutters, so getting both services done together ensures a thorough cleaning and prevents future issues. Don't hesitate to ask us about our roof cleaning options when scheduling your gutter cleaning service.
If my underground drainage pipes are causing a gutter overflow, can they be cleared?
Yes, it's possible to clear underground drainage pipes that are causing gutter overflow. However, please note that this is not a service that we currently provide. When the gutters extend underground, it's recommended to reach out to a professional plumber or rooter company that specializes in clearing blockages from pipes. It's important to address these issues promptly to ensure proper drainage. Additionally, we advise against flushing out closed gutter systems to prevent potential complications. If you have any questions about your gutter system, feel free to ask for guidance during your service appointment.
Which areas or locations do you serve for gutter cleaning?
We provide gutter cleaning services throughout the Seattle region, covering areas like West Seattle, Burien, Mercer Island, and Capitol Hill. Additionally, we cater to residents in Bellevue. If your location isn't mentioned, please reach out. We always aim to accommodate as many areas as possible.
How much do you charge for your window cleaning services?
The cost of gutter cleaning depends largely on the size of the area you’d like to be cleaned, and the types of gutters. You can get a quote (price included) for gutter cleaning on our website. Our website has an application that will ask you a few short questions about your home, and then provides you with an instant quote. Our gutter cleaning services are typically offered in tiered packages and you can schedule yourself online on our calendar.
Roof Cleaning
Why is it important for me to have my roof cleaned?
Extend the lifespan of your roof: Regular roof cleaning is essential for maintaining your home's integrity and extending your roof's lifespan. Debris, dirt, and pollutants can accumulate on your roof over time, leading to damage and deterioration of the roofing materials. Professional roof cleaning services can help remove these contaminants and prevent further damage to your roof.
Prevent mold and algae growth: Moisture and debris on the roof can create a breeding ground for algae and mold, which can cause damage to the roofing materials and lead to health problems for you and your family. Professional roof cleaning services can help eliminate mold, algae, or moss that may be growing on your roof.
Save money on repairs: Regular roof cleaning can help minimize or eliminate damage caused by debris, mold, and algae, which can lead to expensive repairs and shorten the life of your roof. By investing in professional roof cleaning services, you can save money on repairs in the long run.
Improve energy efficiency: A dirty roof can absorb more heat from the sun, which can increase the temperature inside your home and cause your air conditioning system to work harder. Professional roof cleaning services can help cool your home and save energy costs.
Ensure safety: Cleaning a roof can be dangerous, especially if you don't have the proper equipment or training. Professional roof cleaning services have the necessary equipment and expertise to safely and effectively clean your roof without risking injury to yourself or damage to your property.
How often should I get my roof cleaned and undergo moss treatment?
Generally, it is a good idea to get your roof cleaned at least once a year. The frequency of roof cleaning varies depending on the ff. factors:
- Type of roof: Different types of roofs require different cleaning frequencies. For example, metal roofs require cleaning every 1-10 years, while tile roofs should be cleaned every 6 months to 5 years.
- Age of the roof: Older roofs are generally more susceptible to damage and debris buildup. They require more frequent inspections and possibly additional cleaning.
- Environmental factors: Homes in tropical areas, near beaches, production facilities, warehouses, busy roadways, and airports, and homes near lots of mature trees might need more consistent roof cleaning.
- Moisture: High humidity or frequent rainfall can encourage moss, mold, and algae growth on the roof, which can cause premature roof failure.
- Snow and wind storms: A snowy winter, an intense wind storm, or damage to your roof from a fallen tree or branch may require more frequent roof cleanings or extra roof maintenance than normal.
Do you cater to all types of roofs, including metal and cedar shake roofs?
At Seattle Window Cleaners, we service a variety of roof types. However, there are certain roofing materials and pitches we typically avoid due to safety and expertise concerns.
- Metal Roofs: Due to their slippery nature when wet, metal roofs can pose a safety risk for our technicians. Although we generally do not clean these roofs, we might consider exceptions on a case-by-case basis, ensuring the safety and feasibility of the cleaning process for each unique situation.
- Cedar Shake Roofs: These roofs require specialized care and techniques to prevent damage. Given that such expertise is currently outside our service range, we do not offer cleaning for cedar shake roofs.
- Roofs with a Pitch Steeper Than 6/12: We avoid cleaning these roofs to ensure the safety of our team. Our utmost priority remains the safety and well-being of our technicians, allowing them to provide top-quality service without compromising their safety.
Which areas or locations do you serve for roof cleaning & moss treatment?
We provide roof cleaning and moss treatment services throughout the Seattle region, covering areas like West Seattle, Burien, Mercer Island, and Capitol Hill. Additionally, we cater to residents in Bellevue. If your location isn't mentioned, please reach out. We always aim to accommodate as many areas as possible.
How much does roof cleaning and moss treatment cost?
The cost of roof cleaning depends largely on the size of the area you’d like to be cleaned, and the types of gutters. You can get a quote (price included) for roof cleaning services on our website. Our website has an application that will ask you a few short questions about your home, and then provides you with an instant quote. Our roof cleaning services are typically offered in tiered packages and you can schedule yourself online on our calendar.
Pressure Washing
What are the benefits of pressure washing?
Pressure washing your house has several benefits that can help improve your home's appearance, value, and safety. Here are 5 benefits of pressure washing your house:
Prevents damage: Regularly pressure washing your home can prevent the buildup of things like mold, mildew, dirt, and other debris that can cause damage to your home's exterior over time.
Saves money: By preventing damage to your home's exterior, you can save money on costly repairs down the line.
Protects against allergen buildup: Pressure washing can remove built-up pollen and other allergens from your home's exterior, which can help reduce allergy suffering for you and your family.
Boosts curb appeal: Pressure washing can have a dramatic effect on the look of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers and increasing its value.
Promotes safety: Pressure washing can remove disease-causing bacteria and create an environment that is less hospitable to vermin, protecting the safety of everyone in the building.
When is the best time for pressure washing, and how often should it be done?
Typically, once or twice a year is sufficient for most homes. This helps remove the grime, dirt, and mildew that can accumulate over the year.
The most common time for pressure washing is Late Spring to Early Summer since it allows homeowners to wash away the grime from winter and spring pollen, leaving the home looking fresh for the summer months. Another option is Early Fall, especially if you're preparing your home for sale or just want it to look clean for the winter. Cleaning in the fall also helps ensure that your home is in good condition before the harsher winter weather sets in.
The frequency may change based on the local environment and the specific conditions the home is exposed to.
- Homes in areas with high levels of pollution, dust, or pollen might benefit from being pressure washed more frequently, perhaps twice a year.
- Homes located in a humid climate or heavily wooded area are more susceptible to mold and mildew growth and could require more frequent cleanings.
- After significant storms or events that cause a lot of debris, a pressure wash can be beneficial to clean off any residues or deposits left on the home's exterior.
Do you use my water when pressure washing?
Yes, we need to use the customer's water and require a standard 3/4" garden hose that we can connect to within 200 feet of the area we will be cleaning. Our standard pressure washers use 4 gallons of water per minute / 240 gallons per hour. The 2023 summer base rate for 1 CCF / 748 gallons of water in Seattle is $5.92 - meaning our pressure washers consume water at a rate of about $2 per hour.
Are there any surfaces that shouldn't be pressure washed?
There are certain surfaces that should not be pressure washed due to the potential for damage or harm. Here are some surfaces that should not be pressure washed:
- Delicate Wood Surfaces: Soft woods like pine, cedar, and redwood can be damaged, especially if the pressure is too high. Stained wood surfaces can also be stripped by pressure washing.
- Masonry and Historical Elements: Old mortar, especially in historic homes, can be easily blasted away. Decorative elements or aged bricks can be damaged or eroded.
- Roofs and Painted Surfaces: Asphalt shingles can lose their protective granules, and painted surfaces can be chipped or peeled away by high-pressure water.
- Lead-Painted Surfaces: Homes painted before 1978 might have lead-based paint. Pressure washing can release hazardous lead particles.
- Windows, Glass, and Light Fixtures: High-pressure water can break glass, damage seals around windows, or harm delicate light fixtures.
- Electrical and Mechanical Units: Electrical panels, outlets, meters, and air conditioning units can be damaged or pose safety risks when exposed to water.
Can your service remove mold, mildew, and algae through pressure washing?
Yes, pressure washing can remove mold, mildew, and algae from exterior surfaces such as roofing, concrete, siding, wood, and driveways. However, it is important to note that while pressure washing can remove loose dirt, grime, and debris, it may not be guaranteed to remove all traces of mold from your home.
Which areas or locations do you serve for pressure washing?
We provide pressure washing services throughout the Seattle region, covering areas like West Seattle, Burien, Mercer Island, and Capitol Hill. Additionally, we cater to residents in Bellevue. If your location isn't mentioned, please reach out. We always aim to accommodate as many areas as possible.
How long does it typically take to pressure wash a given area or surface?
Our typical pressure washing ranges from 1 to 20 hours, depending on the specific conditions and requirements of the job.
How much do you charge for your pressure washing services?
The cost of pressure washing services depends largely on the size of the area you’d like to be cleaned, and the types of surfaces. You can get a quote (price included) for pressure washing services on our website. Our website has an application that will ask you a few short questions about your home, and then provides you with an instant quote. Our services are typically offered in tiered packages and you can schedule yourself online on our calendar.