Do-It-Yourself or Hire a Pro? A Comparative Guide to Window Cleaning Methods

Window cleaning is an essential part of property maintenance. It could be your residence or a commercial place. However, when it comes to cleaning, you may think about which one you should go for when comparing DIY vs. professional window cleaning. 

The decision depends on several things. For example, you may find DIY flexible with lower upfront costs. However, professional cleaning ensures the highest level of quality. At the same time, it is time-efficient and cost-efficient in the long run. 

So, to pick one method, you must consider several facts. This guide will compare the two window cleaning options side-by-side. We will also describe the pros and limitations of both options so that you can make an informed decision. 

DIY Vs. Professional Window Cleaning- A Side-by-Side Comparison

The table below compares DIY and professional window cleaning services. From this, you will get a quick insight into the differences between these two options.  

Now it’s time to explain every aspect of both professional and DIY window cleaning. Check the in-depth comparison below to understand the differences between these methods. 

1. Cleaning Quality Comparison

1. DIY Cleaning Lacks Effective Cleaning

When you think about window cleaning, the first crucial thing is the quality of the cleaning. Think about your expertise and skill. 

As a DIYer, you are not trained to achieve the highest level of cleanliness. As a result, DIY window cleaning will not achieve streak-free cleaning quality. 

So, it is obvious that the cleaning result will lack quality due to the lack of skill and experience. This is particularly true for larger surfaces. Whether it is residential window cleaning or commercial window cleaning. 

As a DIYer, you may clean a small residential area. But DIY cleaning will result in inconsistent cleaning when it is about to clean a commercial area. When dirt, dust, and grime build-up frequently, DIY cleaning will not be durable. 

2. Professional Window Cleaning Ensure High Quality

Contrarily, professionals are highly trained in cleaning. They ensure the expertise and tools for high-quality, streak-free results. 

Streak-free window window techniques take practice and time. They often involve trial and error with various cleaning products. 

So, with a lot of training and practice, professionals know what products and techniques to use. 

Professional cleaners are skilled in achieving a flawless finish. This is especially true when cleaning high-rise windows.  In such cases, even minor streaks or spots can be highly noticeable.

Also, think about Brisbane’s humidity. It holds an average of 65% to 70% humidity in January, February, and March. Its subtropical climate becomes hot and sunny most of the year. 

So, the cleaning techniques and products need special consideration. Professionals are trained in the weather aspects of Brisbane, too. This helps them to achieve the best cleaning result, which remains long-lasting. 

You will see that their specialised techniques will remove grime without damaging the glass. Also, in high-dust areas, their specialised training helps them to clean the windows effectively. The cleaning remains long-lasting and durable with a polished finish. 

For commercial windows, a polished look is much more essential. This will make a positive impression on clients. 

2. Safety and Accessibility of Equipment for DIYers and Professionals

1. DIY Cleaning Has Safety Risks

Safety is another big concern when cleaning windows. Because the cleaners need to reach high areas to clean high-rise windows. 

So, think about DIY cleaning. A DIYer may have a basic ladder to ride. He may reach up to the 2nd or 3rd floor. But is it safe for him to clean the high windows on a ladder without proper safety gear? 

As a DIYer, it is certain that you don’t have professional- and industrial-grade safety equipment. 

Using usual home ladders and extension poles can increase the risk of falls. In the 2013-14 time period, 3318 people aged more than 15 were hospitalised due to falls or contact with machinery. 

And 63% of falling cases resulted in a fracture, which is truly concerning. 

Also, limited access to specialised equipment will limit the cleaning effectiveness of hard-to-reach window areas. 

2. Professional Cleaning Is Safe With Advanced Equipment Access

On the other hand, professional window cleaners have access to highly advanced window cleaning equipment for high-rise buildings since cleaning is their profession. They have access to tools and equipment, including-

• sponge or T-bar wand, 
• squeegee, 
• glass scraper, 
• rags/towels, 
• tool belt, 
• ropes, 
• powered platforms (like aerial lifts or suspended platforms), 
• water-fed poles, 
• safety harnesses, 
• anchors,
• rope grab, 
• full body harness,
• hanging chairs,
• roof rigs,
• lanyards,
• carabiners, and sometimes, 
• robotic window cleaning systems

So, with access to industry-grade tools and cleaning supplies, professionals can tackle various surfaces and challenging spots. They can clean hard-to-reach surfaces even with the most stubborn grime and residues.

At the same time, professional window cleaning is a hundred times safer than DIY cleaning for high-rise windows. Since they use highly advanced safety gear, they ensure work safety standards in Australia. 

3. Cost Comparison

1. DIY Window Cleaning Has a Low Upfront Cost

DIY cleaning has a lower upfront cost. For maintaining and ground-level window cleaning, you only need products such as

• squeegees, 
• microfiber cloths, and 
• eco-friendly window cleaners.

Also, you may need to purchase some advanced tools, though DIY cleaning is not recommended for such complex cleaning tasks. All these will add to the cost.

However, you may need to spend anything from AUD 10 to AUD 100 for basic DIY window cleaning. However, when you go for more complex cleaning, the window washing cost will rise. 

And do you know what will happen finally? This will be an ongoing expense for window cleaning tools and supplies. This is because DIY cleaning won’t give you any durable and long-lasting windows. 

2. Professional Cleaning Is Cost-Efficient in the Long Run

On the other hand, you will see professional window cleaning comes with a higher upfront cost. The cost includes supplies, equipment, cleaning products, labour costs, etc.

You may need to spend AUD 100 for small residential window cleaning. This may rise up to AUD 1000 or more for commercial window cleaning. And some professional cleaning services offer cheaper prices. For example, Eco Brisbane’s price starts at only $40, with satisfaction guaranteed. 

Okay, this seems higher, no doubt. But when you think about long-term benefits, the cost is worth it. 

How? 

• The cleaning quality will be top-grade, with polished and streak-free windows. 
• The professional cleaning will be long-lasting. 
• The cost will be for the cleaning once every 4 to 6 months. But DIY may need more frequent cleaning, like every 2 months. 

4. Time and Effort Comparison

1. DIY Cleaning Needs More Time and Effort

There is no doubt that DIY window cleaning is a time-consuming method. This is especially true when you want to do DIY window cleaning for large properties or multi-storied buildings. 

DIY cleaning requires substantial effort for every step. They range from preparing supplies to perfecting streak-free techniques. This adds to the time commitment. 

Because most DIYers do their job all alone. So, preparing supplies and completing tasks will take much more time. Still, if DIYers try to clean large property windows by teaming up, they can’t manage the cleaning on time. This is because they are not trained in time management like professionals.

Also, they may be involved in seasonal window cleaning only. This is another reason for not ensuring proper time efficiency. So, for those with busy schedules, DIY may prove too demanding for consistent, frequent cleaning.

2. Professional Cleaning Is Time-Efficient 

Professionals complete the job quickly and efficiently. They often complete a task in hours, which might take a DIYer a full day. Because professionals do the cleaning job around the year in different projects, they are also trained in cleaning. 

So, their ongoing jobs and training make them much more time-efficient than DIYers. 

A professional cleaning service saves time and energy for those with demanding schedules or larger properties. Ultimately, this enables other priorities without sacrificing window quality.

5. Customisability Options

1. DIY Has Customisation Flexibility

DIY window cleaning allows complete flexibility in customising the cleaning routine. This helps to suit specific needs and preferences. Property owners can choose the tools, techniques, time, and products that align with their goals.

This could be eco-friendly window cleaners like vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, etc… Or DIYers can utilise particular streak-free techniques. 

Although DIY provides this flexibility, maintaining a regular schedule can be challenging. This is especially true for larger properties or busy individuals.

2. Professional Cleaning Less Customisable

Professional window cleaning services offer various packages. They include options for residential and commercial window cleaning. But, the level of customisation is generally more structured. 

Many services provide package tiers that may include 

• eco-friendly products, 
• seasonal cleaning,
• tailored maintenance plans for high-rise windows,
• challenging areas. 

However, customisation is usually limited to what is offered within each service package. Ultimately, this makes it less flexible than a DIY approach.

Still, many window cleaners in Brisbane offer flexibility to their customers to the level up to their satisfaction. 

Which Method Do You Need to Choose?

Choosing between DIY window cleaning and hiring a professional often comes down to priorities. They are quality, safety, time, and the overall outcome. Here’s why professional window cleaning may be a better choice for many.

Pros of DIY Window Cleaning

•   Lower initial cost with flexibility to choose eco-friendly products.
•   Offers complete control over timing and customisation for specific needs.

Cons of DIY window Cleaning

• Quality can vary, and a streak-free finish is hard to achieve.
• High safety risks, especially for high or hard-to-reach windows.
• It is time-consuming and may lack the effectiveness of professional tools.

Pros of Professional Window Cleaning

• Provides high-quality, consistent, streak-free results.
• Safety protocols are followed, which are especially important for challenging or high-rise windows.
• Saves time and is efficient, particularly for larger properties.
• Often includes eco-friendly options as part of the service.

Cons of Professional Window Cleaning

• Higher upfront cost and requires scheduling appointments

Individuals–

• are comfortable with hands-on work and
• prefer customisation.

They can go for DIY window cleaning. 

But those who-

• have larger or multi-storey properties,
• are busy homeowners, 
• have commercial properties and 
• those prioritising safety, quality, and time efficiency.

They must go for professional window cleaning. 

Final Thoughts

When comparing DIY vs. professional window cleaning, both have their own pros and cons. But, in the long run, professional cleaning is the most effective choice for most property owners. It can be residential window cleaning or commercial window cleaning. 

However, if you want to get the most reliable professional window cleaning services, you can put your trust in Eco Cleaning Brisbane. We have more than 20 years of cleaning experience in Brisbane. After getting your windows cleaned, you will be satisfied for sure. 

Contact us at +61 7 3189 2759 or [email protected] to book your cleaning service today.