
How Do You Price Your Window Cleaning Services?
Pricing your window cleaning services effectively ensures profitability while staying competitive in the market. Whether you're cleaning residential homes or commercial properties, your rates should reflect factors like window size, accessibility, frequency, and additional services. Pricing models vary—from charging per pane to hourly rates—each with its advantages. This guide will walk you through cost estimation, common pricing structures, and key factors that influence window cleaning prices. Plus, we’ll explore how to maximize your earnings with upselling and seasonal pricing strategies.
Understanding Window Cleaning Pricing
The cost of window cleaning varies widely depending on the type of property, number of windows, and level of difficulty involved. While a basic residential window cleaning job might start at £30, commercial window cleaning pricing can range from £100 to £500 or more, depending on the complexity and equipment required.
Pricing your services correctly isn’t just about choosing a number—it requires a structured approach that accounts for labor, materials, overhead, and profit margin. Below, we’ll break down the main pricing strategies and how to determine the best one for your business.
Pricing Models: Which One Works for You?
Different pricing structures suit different types of window cleaning jobs. Here are some of the most common approaches:
Per-Window Pricing – Ideal for residential properties, this method involves setting a flat cost per window, typically between £4-£8 per pane.
Per-Hour Pricing – Works well for jobs with variable difficulty, such as cleaning hard-to-reach windows or large commercial buildings. Hourly rates can range from £25-£40 per cleaner.
Per-Square-Foot Pricing – Used for large-scale commercial properties, with costs ranging from £0.50 to £2.50 per square foot.
Tiered Pricing – Offers different service levels, such as basic, deep clean, and premium packages, allowing customers to choose based on their budget.
Regardless of the model you choose, it’s essential to ensure that your pricing covers expenses while leaving room for profit.
Tip: Need an accurate quote for your next window cleaning job? Use our request a quote tool to get a tailored estimate.
Key Factors That Influence Pricing
No two window cleaning jobs are the same. The following factors play a significant role in determining the final cost:
1. Property Type & Size
The price for a residential window cleaning job will differ from that of a commercial or industrial property. Larger properties require more time and resources, leading to higher costs.
Small homes (1-2 bedrooms) → £30-£60
Medium homes (3-4 bedrooms) → £60-£120
Large homes (5+ bedrooms) → £120+
Commercial buildings → Starts at £100 and varies significantly based on size
2. Accessibility & Window Height
Cleaning ground-floor windows is straightforward, but for properties with multiple stories, additional equipment such as water-fed poles, cherry pickers, or ladders may be required, increasing costs.
Standard two-story home → Moderate pricing increase
Three-story or higher → Requires specialized equipment, increasing costs significantly
3. Window Type & Condition
Certain window styles take longer to clean due to their design:
Casement & sliding windows → Generally easier to clean
Decorative or French-style windows → More intricate, requiring extra care
Storm windows → Often involve additional labor, leading to a higher price
First-time clean charge → A one-time extra fee for heavily soiled windows
Did you know? Dirty windows with hard water stains or built-up grime may require special treatments, leading to additional charges.
4. Cleaning Frequency
Regular customers often receive discounted recurring cleaning rates, as maintenance cleans take less time compared to one-off deep cleans.
One-time clean → Full price
Monthly cleaning → 10-15% discount
Quarterly cleaning → 5-10% discount
For commercial contracts, businesses may opt for weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly cleanings, often securing discounted rates for long-term commitments.
Looking for a window cleaner near you? Check our service locations to find a professional in your area.
Understanding the Key Factors That Influence Window Cleaning Prices
Pricing your window cleaning services correctly requires a deep understanding of multiple cost factors. While setting a competitive rate is essential, it’s equally important to ensure your pricing structure reflects the effort, expertise, and equipment involved in each job.
Below, we’ll break down the primary factors affecting cost and how they contribute to accurate price estimation for your services.
1. Size and Type of Property
Different property types require different pricing approaches. A residential window cleaning job for a small bungalow will be priced much lower than a high-rise window cleaning contract. The complexity, height, and number of windows all play a role in determining fair window cleaning prices.
Residential window cleaning pricing often follows a per-pane pricing model or a flat rate per house based on size.
Commercial window cleaning pricing typically operates on a square-foot pricing formula or per-building rate, depending on accessibility and cleaning frequency.
Construction window cleaning (post-construction cleanup) requires extra care due to leftover debris, paint, or adhesive, often justifying a higher rate per pane.
Pro Tip: Consider offering tiered pricing options (standard, deep clean, and premium) to cater to different customer needs and budgets.
2. Window Size, Type, and Accessibility
The size and type of windows greatly affect pricing. Larger or uniquely shaped windows often require additional effort and specialized tools. For example:
Casement windows may take longer due to multiple panes.
Sliding windows are typically quicker to clean, making them more affordable.
Decorative windows and French doors require precision, increasing the overall service cost.
Accessibility is another significant pricing factor. Hard-to-reach windows may need:
Ladders for second-story windows
Water-fed pole systems for taller residential properties
Cherry pickers or rope access for commercial and high-rise jobs
Difficult-to-access windows demand more time, effort, and safety measures, increasing the final price.
3. Cleaning Frequency and Level of Dirt
The cleaning frequency a customer chooses can influence the pricing model. Recurring cleaning rates tend to be lower per visit compared to a one-time deep clean. Customers who book regular services (monthly, quarterly, or biannually) benefit from discounted pricing, while first-time cleans generally cost more.
The level of dirt or grime also plays a role. Windows that haven’t been cleaned in years may have built-up debris, hard water stains, or mold, requiring extra labor and cleaning products. Many window cleaners implement a first-time clean charge to account for this.
Example: A client who hasn’t had their windows cleaned in five years may pay double the price of a recurring customer due to the additional work involved.
4. Location-Based Pricing Adjustments
Your service area pricing variations should reflect regional costs and demand. Urban areas with high demand and commercial buildings may allow for higher rates, while suburban or rural locations might require more competitive pricing. Factors that influence location-based pricing include:
Travel fees for distant jobs
Insurance costs based on local regulations
Market competition and customer expectations
If you're offering window cleaning services across multiple locations, ensure your pricing aligns with regional standards. You can explore our service areas to see where we operate.
5. Additional Services and Upselling Opportunities
Offering additional services alongside standard window cleaning can significantly increase revenue. Some valuable upsell opportunities include:
✅ Gutter cleaning – Often requested alongside window cleaning
✅ Power washing – Ideal for exterior maintenance packages
✅ Track and sill cleaning – A premium add-on service
✅ Screen cleaning – Often overlooked but highly valued by homeowners
Bundling these services can create higher-value packages, encouraging customers to spend more while ensuring their property is well-maintained.
Want a quick and easy price estimation? Get a free, no-obligation quote for your property by visiting our request a quote page.
6. Pricing Strategies and Methods
Now that we’ve covered the factors affecting cost, let’s dive into pricing strategies that can help you set rates that are both competitive and profitable.
Per-Pane Pricing vs. Per-House Pricing
One of the most common methods is pricing by pane—charging per individual window pane rather than by the whole window. This ensures fair pricing for properties with intricate or multi-paned windows.
Pros: Transparent pricing, easy for customers to understand
Cons: Can be time-consuming to estimate for large homes
Alternatively, many window cleaners prefer per-house pricing, setting a flat rate based on property size and average labor time.
Pros: Simple, faster quotes, appealing for customers
Cons: Might not account for complex window layouts
Example: A 3-bedroom semi-detached home might have a set price of £40–£60, while a large detached house could range from £80–£150 based on window count and accessibility.
Per-Hour Pricing vs. Square Foot Pricing
For commercial window cleaning pricing, many professionals opt for either:
Per-hour pricing – Charging an hourly rate, typically between £25–£50 per hour
Square-foot pricing – Charging between £0.50–£2.50 per square foot, depending on building height and difficulty
For high-rise window cleaning, pricing is often based on floor count, additional safety equipment, and the use of abseiling or cherry pickers.
7. Additional Fees & Considerations
To maintain profitability, certain extra fees should be factored into your pricing structure.
First-Time Clean Charge
If a property hasn’t had professional window cleaning in years, the buildup of dirt, hard water stains, and grime requires extra effort. A first-time clean charge (often double the regular rate) ensures the job is priced fairly.
Travel Fees
For jobs located outside your main service area, travel fees may be necessary. This is particularly relevant for rural properties or commercial contracts in different cities.
Emergency & Same-Day Service Fees
Customers sometimes need urgent window cleaning, whether for an event, a business inspection, or unexpected weather damage. Charging a premium for same-day service helps compensate for the extra time and scheduling adjustments.
Tip: Consider implementing a weekend or holiday surcharge for jobs outside regular business hours.
8. How to Stay Competitive While Maximizing Profit
A strong pricing model balances competitiveness and profitability. Here are some best practices to refine your pricing strategy:
1. Conduct Competitive Analysis
Check the rates of other professional window cleaning services in your area. While underpricing may attract short-term customers, pricing too low can devalue your work and reduce profitability.
2. Offer Recurring Contract Pricing
Encourage long-term customers by providing discounted recurring cleaning rates. Regular contracts (monthly, quarterly, or biannually) help secure steady income and improve customer retention.
3. Use Pricing Psychology
Simple pricing tactics, like rounding to the nearest £5 or £10, make quotes feel more approachable. Offering bundled services (e.g., window + gutter cleaning) at a slight discount can also increase the average order value.
Example: Instead of quoting £57.75, round to £60—it’s easier for customers to process and accept.
4. Highlight ROI for Customers
Educate customers on the return on investment (ROI) of professional window cleaning. Clean windows:
Improve property value and curb appeal
Extend the lifespan of window glass and frames
Reduce allergens and indoor pollutants
Enhance natural lighting, reducing energy costs
By demonstrating long-term savings and benefits, you can justify your pricing more effectively.
Final Thoughts
Pricing your window cleaning services correctly requires a balance of strategy, transparency, and customer value. Whether you use per-pane, per-hour, or flat-rate pricing, ensure your rates reflect your expertise, equipment, and level of service.
Need a price estimate? Visit our request a quote page to get a custom window cleaning quote for your home or business today.
For more details on our service locations, check out our coverage areas to see if we operate in your region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Window Cleaning Pricing
1. Do you charge extra for cleaning windows inside and outside?
Yes, cleaning both the interior and exterior of windows requires double the labor and time, so it often comes at an additional cost. Many customers opt for exterior-only cleaning, but for a thorough clean, we recommend both sides.
2. How do you price skylights and roof windows?
Skylights and roof windows require specialized equipment, such as long-reach poles or harness systems, making them more expensive per window than standard ground-floor windows. Their pricing depends on accessibility, height, and dirt level.
3. Do you offer discounts for multiple properties or landlords?
Yes! If you own or manage multiple properties, we can offer bulk pricing for regular service across all locations. This is particularly beneficial for landlords, estate agents, and property managers.
4. Is there a minimum charge for window cleaning services?
Yes, we have a minimum service charge to cover travel, labor, and equipment costs. This ensures that even small jobs remain viable for our team. The exact amount depends on the service location and job scope.
5. How do you handle windows with security bars or insect screens?
Windows with security bars or fixed insect screens can take longer to clean and may require special tools or partial disassembly. If screens need to be removed and reinstalled, there may be an extra charge.
6. Do you charge more for hard water stain removal?
Yes. Hard water stains require special treatments and additional labor to remove. We offer this as an add-on service, with pricing dependent on the severity of the stains and the size of the affected windows.
7. Are conservatory windows and glass roofs priced differently?
Yes. Conservatory windows and glass roofs require more time and specialized cleaning methods, such as water-fed pole systems or ladder access, which increases the cost compared to standard window cleaning.
8. What happens if I cancel my window cleaning appointment?
We understand that plans change, but last-minute cancellations can affect our scheduling. We may charge a cancellation fee if the appointment is canceled within 24 hours of the scheduled time.
9. Can bad weather affect my window cleaning appointment and pricing?
Yes, heavy rain, strong winds, or icy conditions can delay appointments for safety reasons. However, light rain usually doesn’t affect the quality of our service. We will always communicate any weather-related rescheduling in advance.
10. How can I get an accurate price for my window cleaning job?
The best way to get an accurate price is to request a free quote through our request a quote page. We assess factors like window type, size, accessibility, and location to provide you with a fair and transparent quote.