The most important step in maintaining beautiful windows is to keep them clean. Even if you dress them with lovely curtains and paint the sills, the effect will be spoiled if you can’t see out of them. But is it worth hiring a professional window cleaner? Or should you clean them yourself? Here are a few things to consider when deciding between DIY and calling in the professionals for help.
Building size
The first factor to take into account is the size of your home. If you live in a ground floor flat or bungalow, your windows should be accessible from the outside. If your home is of a small-to-medium size, you’re also likely to have fewer windows to cover. In this case, you could save some pennies by opting to clean them yourself.
However, if your home is a little larger or has windows above street level, getting to every single one may be a bit trickier. If this is the case, it might be a good idea to consider bringing in a professional company. Professional window cleaners will come prepared with specialist equipment for reaching those high windows safely. Having them take on this task will also free up more of your time.
Weather conditions
Consider your location and what the weather is usually like at different times of the year. Will you want to clean the windows if it’s pouring with rain or snowing? If you live in a fairly calm region with moderate temperatures, then cleaning your own windows should be a lot easier. Make sure to wear appropriate clothing so you don’t get too warm or too cold. If the sun is out, remember that the water will dry more quickly. To prevent streak marks from forming, quickly buff the windows with a dry cloth as you go. If your area is prone to more extreme temperatures, you may prefer to call in the experts. Professional window cleaners will have the appropriate weather protection to stay comfortable outdoors. It’s likely that they will have specialist tools for tackling windows in different conditions.
Expense
Cost is perhaps the most obvious thing to consider when deciding between professional and DIY window-cleaning. If you’re working to a tight budget, you might feel that the money would be more wisely spent elsewhere. After all, lots of homes have windows that can be easily cleaned without spending much money. A bucket, sponge, and squeegee are relatively inexpensive and can be reused. On the other hand, if the points above have made you think twice about DIY, then it might be better to call in the professionals.
If you do decide to hire someone in, take the time to do your research first. Different window cleaners will suit different budgets. The best way to find the right one for you is to ask your friends and family for recommendations. That way, you can be confident in the service you’re going to receive.
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