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How Much Does Exterior Window Cleaning Cost?
Exterior window cleaning typically costs $10–$15 per window, or around $250–$450 for an average Bay Area home, depending on window size, accessibility, and buildup. Regular professional cleaning not only enhances curb appeal but also protects your windows from long-term damage caused by dirt, minerals, and weather exposure.
Grayson Dyer
October 24, 2025

When it comes to maintaining the appearance and longevity of your home, exterior window cleaning is one of the most cost-effective services you can invest in. But exactly how much should you budget for this service? Below, we’ll break down typical pricing, what influences cost, and what high-quality homeowners should expect when hiring a professional service like yours (Window Cleaning Bay Area) to do the job.

1. Typical Cost Ranges

  • According to national data, cleaning the exterior only of standard residential windows tends to average around $6.40 to $12.80 per window.
  • Other sources put the average total-house price between $150 and $370, or roughly $10 to $15 per window (for homes of average size).
  • Hourly pricing for professional window cleaning services often falls in the $40–$75 per hour range for residential jobs.

In the Bay Area market—where labor, travel, insurance, and equipment costs are higher—the upward end of those ranges is more realistic. For example, if a home has 30 standard-sized windows, an estimate of about $300–$450 would be reasonable for exterior cleaning only.

2. Key Factors That Influence Cost

a) Number & Size of Windows / Panes
Larger windows or those with multiple panes take more time and care to clean. For example, one guide shows small/standard windows at ~$4–$9 per pane, while large picture windows or floor-to-ceiling types can cost more.

b) Height & Accessibility
Any windows above the first floor, behind overhangs, or with limited access raise the price. According to one source, add about $3–$5 per window for windows on upper floors.

c) Condition & Additional Services
Windows with hard water stains, mineral deposits, paint overspray, or years of neglect will cost more because they require special treatments. For instance, one data set shows that mineral deposit removal can add $10-$30 per window.

d) Frequency of Service
Regularly scheduled cleanings (semiannual or annual) often cost less per visit because the buildup is more manageable. One study mentions that recurring contracts can receive discounts of 10–20%.

e) Region & Travel/Logistics
Where you live matters. Urban markets, homes with complicated access, or high-cost regions like the Bay Area all contribute to higher pricing. For example, the cost for full-house exterior cleaning in some regions is reported as high as $234–$310 or more.

3. Typical Price Breakdown Examples

  • Standard single-story home, good access, normal windows: ~$150–$300 for exterior cleaning all windows.
  • Two-story home with moderate access issues: ~$300–$450.
  • Home with specialty windows (bay windows, large picture windows, many panes), upper-floor access required: $400+ easily.
  • Commercial or multi-story high-rise jobs: often quoted by the pane or square foot rather than per window, with rates starting around $5–$15 per window or $0.50–$2.50 per square foot.

4. Tips to Get the Best Value

  • Bundle services: If you’re also scheduling gutter cleaning, solar panel cleaning, or pressure washing, ask for a bundled rate.
  • Schedule regular cleanings: Simplifies scheduling, reduces per-visit cost, keeps your windows in better shape.
  • Clear access beforehand: Remove plants, furniture, and any obstacles. This can reduce time and cost.
  • Ask for a detailed quote: Ensure the scope includes exterior only or both interior/exterior, screens, sills, and whether mineral-stain removal is covered.
  • Check credentials: Make sure the company has insurance, uses safe equipment (especially for second-floor work), and includes any applicable safety premiums in the price.

5. Why It’s Worth It

  • Clean exterior windows improve curb appeal, which matters especially if you’re prepping for sale or investing in your property’s appearance.
  • Regular professional cleaning can extend the life of your windows and frames by removing harmful minerals, mold, or buildup that can cause damage over time.
  • With many homeowners opting to DIY less and outsource more, the value of a trusted professional service increases.

In summary:
For most Bay Area homes, expect exterior window cleaning to run approximately $10-$15 per window, or $250–$450 total, depending on size, height, condition, and frequency. Use the factors above to compare multiple quotes and select a service that offers transparency, quality, and reliability.

If you’d like, I can customize this cost guide for the Bay Area region specifically (Fremont, San Jose, Berkeley) with local market benchmarks, so you can use it in your marketing materials or landing page.

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