Short answer
It depends on how many windows you have, how many storeys, how easy they are to reach and how dirty they are. I don’t have a standard time I can fairly quote for every house, so I’d rather give you an estimate once you’ve told me about your home. An inside clean takes longer than an outside clean for the same house.
What changes the time?
- Number of windows and panes. More glass, more time. Small panes in a bay or leaded style take longer than a single large pane.
- Storeys. Upstairs windows take a bit longer than ground floor ones.
- Access. A clear path, open gates and no cars in the way help. A long walk with the hose, a tight alley or a locked gate slows things.
- How dirty. A first clean after a long gap takes longer than a regular one.
- Frames and sills. If you’d like these done too, they add time.
- Conservatories and extra glass. These add time.
- Inside or outside. Inside or outside explains why inside is slower.
Why won’t you give me a standard time?
Because it wouldn’t be honest. I haven’t found a reliable source with a typical time for a UK house, and a made-up number would only set you up to be disappointed. I’d rather say what changes it and then give you a real estimate.
How do I get an estimate?
Get a quote and tell me roughly how many windows you have, what type of house it is, and how many storeys. Photos aren’t required. If I can’t tell from what you’ve written, I’ll ask a question or two rather than guess.
Do I need to be in for the whole visit?
For an outside clean, no, as long as I can reach the windows. For an inside clean, someone needs to be in. What to do before the window cleaner comes covers the list.
Why does the first clean take longer?
There’s usually more built-up dirt on the glass and frames, and any old residue may need more rinsing. After that, regular cleans tend to go more quickly because there’s less to remove. How often should windows be cleaned? has more on that.
Does the pole make it quicker?
For outside cleaning from the ground, yes: I don’t have to move a ladder around your garden. But it isn’t magic. I still brush every frame and rinse every pane, and I take the time to check for spots when it dries. What is a water-fed pole? explains the kit.
What if the weather delays things?
A wet or very windy day may not suit an outside clean. Ask me how I handle bad-weather days.
Common questions
Will you tell me how long before I book?
Yes. Once I know about your windows, I’ll give you an idea of the time with the quote, so you know whether to plan around it. If I’m unsure I’ll say so, and I’d rather give a range than a number I can’t stand behind.
Does a bigger house always take longer?
Mostly, but not always. A smaller house with lots of small panes, a conservatory and a locked side gate can take longer than a bigger house with large panes and easy access. Count the panes, not the bedrooms.
Can I be out while you work?
For an outside clean, yes, as long as I can reach the windows. For inside, someone needs to let me in and be there.
What if I only want some windows done?
Tell me which. I’m happy to leave some out, though the price and time will reflect what I’m doing. I’d rather agree that clearly before I start.
Do you rush to fit more houses in?
No. Keeping to two towns means less driving between homes, which leaves time to do each one properly. If a job needs longer than I expected, I take the time and tell you.
What if I’m not happy with a window afterwards?
Tell me which window and what you can see, once the glass has fully dried.
Is the second clean quicker than the first?
Usually, yes. Once the built-up dirt and any old residue have gone, a regular clean has less to shift, so it tends to take less time. I’ll tell you if your house is an exception.
