Written by

Tamatha Hazen

May 12, 2025

Edited by

Tara Farmer

Fact-checked by

Kristen Cramer

How much to charge for window cleaning

A successful window cleaning business requires careful planning, especially in pricing. Your rates must be competitive, profitable, and reflect the job's quality and scope. When calculating how much to charge for window washing, tailor your approach to each client's unique needs based on job complexity and property type.

Residential window cleaning

Most residential window cleaners charge per window or pane. This pricing model is straightforward for homeowners to understand and allows you to account for factors like window size, height, type, and accessibility. The following table provides a quick reference for residential window cleaning prices based on national averages.

Commercial window cleaning

Commercial window cleaners typically charge by square footage, which better reflects the scale and complexity of the job. Pricing ranges generally fall between $0.50 and $2.50 per square foot, depending on the service type and property size:

• Standard cleaning: Basic interior and exterior window washing, including sills and tracks; suitable for most commercial properties

• Premium service: Enhanced cleaning with streak-free solutions, including screens, frames, and hard-to-reach areas; ideal for high-traffic businesses

• High-Rise / complex: Specialized service for high-rise buildings or complex window configurations, using advanced equipment like lifts or scaffolding, and covering post-construction cleanup.

How much to charge for window cleaning inside and out

When pricing interior and exterior window cleaning, always consider the different challenges each presents. Interior work focuses on detail in accessible spaces, while exterior jobs require safety measures and specialized equipment. The rates in the following table reflect these differences to help you establish fair, profitable pricing that aligns with client expectations.

Factors that affect how to price window cleaning

Understanding how to price your services is a crucial step in making your business profitable. Consider these essential cost factors when setting your prices:

• Window type: Different window designs, such as sunbursts or casements, require varying amounts of time and specialized tools for cleaning. Be sure to factor this into your pricing to cover the additional labor costs.

• Number of windows: Larger homes or buildings with many windows might qualify for bulk discounts, but ensure your pricing still covers labor and materials.

• Accessibility: If you're cleaning high-rise windows or skylights, you'll need scaffolding, lifts, or safety gear. These requirements can increase your equipment and insurance costs, so make sure to include them in your estimates.

• Level of grime: Windows with stubborn buildup, like hard water stains or dirt accumulation, will take more time and may require special cleaning agents. Adjust your pricing to reflect this extra labor.

• Frequency: Offering regular maintenance contracts can help you reduce per-visit costs for clients while building a steady income.

• Labor intensity: Multi-pane windows, tracks, or screens can increase the time it takes to complete a job. Make sure your hourly rates reflect the added effort required for these more complex tasks.

• Travel distance: Jobs outside your usual service area can incur fuel and time costs. Consider implementing a call-out fee to cover these expenses.

• Insurance / permits: High-risk jobs, such as cleaning skyscrapers, require higher liability coverage and possibly permits. Be sure to include these costs in your project pricing.

• Contract type: Commercial clients may negotiate bulk discounts for larger jobs. Be prepared to adjust your pricing structure while ensuring that you maintain profitability.

• Add-on services: Offering additional services like screen or track cleaning can boost your revenue. Just remember that these add-ons require extra equipment and labor, so adjust your pricing accordingly.

Additional pricing strategies

Consider these incentives and scenarios and adjust your rates as needed:

• Bundled discounts: Offer 10% to 20% off for combining interior and exterior services.

• Frequency discounts: Reduce rates by 5% to 15% for weekly or monthly contracts.

• High-risk surcharges: Add 15% to 30% for skylights, high-rises, or post-storm cleanup.

Set profitable window cleaning prices

Once you've considered all the factors that affect your costs, it's time to set your prices. These simple steps can help get you started setting prices that ensure a profitable business:

Step 1: Calculate your total cost

To begin, add up all the expenses for the job. This includes labor costs (how much you pay your workers), material costs (the cost of cleaning solutions and equipment), and overhead costs (things like insurance and fuel). Use this formula to calculate your total cost:

Total Cost = Labor Cost + Material Cost + Overhead Cost

For example: If your labor costs are $150, materials cost $100, and overhead is $50, your total cost would be $300.

Step 2: Add your profit margin

Next, you need to make sure you're making a profit. To do this, decide on a profit margin that works for you—20% is a good starting point. Multiply your total cost by this percentage and add it to your total cost using this formula:

Final Price = Total Cost + (Total Cost × Profit Margin)

For example: If your total cost is $300 and your profit margin is 20%, your calculation would be: $300 + ($300 × 0.20) = $360 final price.

By following these steps, you'll ensure your pricing covers costs, earns a profit, and keeps your business competitive. Always revisit your rates as your costs or services change.

Expand your services for higher revenue

When starting a window-washing business, it's crucial to charge what you're worth. Boost your revenue with a menu of add-ons for services that require extra time or expertise. Below are national average rates for common add-on services – customize these to fit your local market.

How much to charge for window washing: FAQs

How should I structure my pricing for window cleaning services?

When setting your pricing, consider the costs of labor, materials, and overhead, then add a profit margin. For residential jobs, you might charge per window or by the hour. Commercial jobs often use a square footage rate or monthly plans. Make sure your pricing aligns with local market rates.

How do I adjust pricing for difficult jobs?

For harder jobs, like high windows or those with lots of dirt, add a bit extra to your usual price. This helps cover the extra time and effort needed. Consider adding 15% to 30% for these jobs.

How do I stay competitive without undercharging?

Check what other window cleaners in your area are charging to ensure you're competitive. Offer special deals or highlight what makes your service unique, like using eco-friendly products or providing excellent customer service.

What's the best way to present bids?

When presenting bids for window cleaning, break down the costs clearly and include a timeline for the work. Use professional templates to make your bids look polished. This helps build trust with potential clients.

Providing price estimates for your clients

When providing estimates for window cleaning services, follow these steps to ensure clarity and professionalism:

• Visit the site: Whenever possible, visit the client's location for an in-person estimate. This helps you accurately assess the number and type of windows, any special requirements, and potential challenges.

• Ask questions: Clarify any details that might affect the price, such as the frequency of cleaning, any special requests (e.g., track cleaning), and accessibility issues.

• Break down costs: Clearly explain what the client is paying for. Include labor, materials, and any additional services like gutter cleaning or screen washing.

• Set clear timelines: Specify when you can start the job and how long it will take. This helps clients plan and manage their schedules effectively.

• Follow up: After sending an estimate, check in with the client to answer any questions and confirm their decision. This shows you're committed to their needs and helps close deals.

When to adjust your pricing

To maintain a competitive edge and ensure profitability, it's essential to regularly review and adjust your window washing prices. Adjust your rates as needed in the following situations:

• Market changes: Adjust prices if local competitors change their rates or if there's a shift in demand due to seasonal changes or economic conditions.

• Increased costs: Raise prices if your material costs, labor costs, or overhead expenses increase significantly.

• Job complexity: Increase prices for jobs that require more time or specialized equipment, such as high windows or those with heavy grime.

• Client feedback: Consider client feedback and adjust pricing if customers feel it's too high or too low compared to competitors.

• Business growth: Review pricing quarterly to ensure it aligns with your business's growth and profitability goals.

• Service frequency: Offer discounts for frequent cleanings or bundled services to encourage return clients.

• New services: Adjust pricing if you introduce new services like gutter cleaning or power washing.