Shedding Light on Avoidable Commercial Window Cleaning Mistakes

sore is a costly misstep. The U.S. Government Accountability Office reports that deferred maintenance often leads to emergency repairs costing 3 to 10 times more than proactive upkeep. Infrequent cleaning also undermines energy efficiency — dirt buildup on low-e glass can reduce daylight transmission by 7% to 14%, increasing dependence on artificial lighting and raising energy costs. 

To avoid these consequences, property teams should implement a data-driven cleaning schedule, quarterly for buildings in urban pollution zones and biannually for those in suburban areas. Align these intervals with BOMA 360 environmental benchmarks and record key performance indicators in your CMMS to spot trends and optimize maintenance strategies.

Mistake #5 — Hiring Low-Bid Vendors Without Damage Coverage

Hiring the lowest-bid commercial window cleaning vendor may save money upfront, but it often leads to costly consequences. Many of these providers lack proper training to prevent glass scratches or seal damage, and most general liability policies exclude coverage for workmanship-related issues, meaning building owners could be on the hook for five-figure repair bills. Additionally, low-cost vendors often don’t focus on job site safety and may rush to complete work quickly or overlook job site hazards. 

To protect your property, always request the service provider’s Certificate of Insurance (COI), and ask for references from comparable Class A buildings that can verify their damage-free track record.

Avoid the Glare: Smart Moves for Flawless Window Maintenance

When done right, window cleaning isn’t just about appearances; it’s a proactive way to protect your investment, enhance occupant experiences, and extend the life of your building envelope. By avoiding the five common mistakes, property teams can improve outcomes, reduce risk, and make more strategic use of their maintenance budgets. 

At the Valcourt Group, we combine full-service expertise with cutting-edge solutions — from OSHA-certified crews to drone cleaning solutions. We continuously evolve our approach to meet the unique needs of every property. Our tailored programs deliver consistent, high-quality results for high-rises, campuses, and complex portfolios across the United States.

Contact us today to build a smarter, safer window cleaning strategy!