Introduction

Hiring a professional window cleaning service is a smart investment, whether for your home or business. Professionally cleaned windows can dramatically improve the appearance of your property, enhance natural light, and even extend the lifespan of your window units. However, the job isn’t done when the team packs up and leaves. A high-quality clean leaves no room for smears, damage, or missed spots. It’s essential to carry out a thorough inspection after the service has been completed.

While most reputable companies deliver excellent results, being proactive about quality assurance ensures your expectations are met. Checking the work also reinforces accountability, identifies areas that may need touch-ups, and ensures that your investment has delivered its full value. Below, we’ll walk you through the top 10 things to check after your window cleaning service is done, to guarantee a spotless, safe, and long-lasting finish.

The Top 10 Things to Check After Your Window Cleaning Service is Done

1. Spot-Free Glass and No Smears

The hallmark of a professional window cleaning job is streak-free, crystal-clear glass. Once the windows have dried naturally, inspect them in natural daylight and from multiple angles. Check especially at sunrise or sunset when streaks and smudges are most visible. If there are visible smears, haze, or water marks, the job may have been rushed or done with unclean tools. Professionals use purified water and high-quality squeegees to avoid this issue entirely.

2. Clean Window Edges and Frames

A proper window clean involves more than just the glass. Residue, soap, or dust left behind on the window frame or sill is a sign of incomplete work. Dirty or wet edges can cause marks to reappear on the glass after drying. Look for any remaining build-up in corners, behind latches, or along sliding tracks. A thorough job includes wiping down frames, sills, and tracks with lint-free cloths or microfibre towels.

3. No Residue on Surrounding Areas

Professional cleaners take care not to splash dirt, soapy water, or chemicals onto surrounding walls, woodwork, or floors. After your service, inspect these areas—especially if you have painted walls, timber cladding, or decorative features near your windows. Any visible water spots or streaks outside the window perimeter should be addressed immediately to prevent long-term staining or damage.

4. Windows Functioning Smoothly

A reputable window cleaning service should leave your windows fully functional. Open and close each window to ensure they slide or swing smoothly and that the cleaning process hasn’t loosened any hardware or introduced grime into the tracks. A professional will often clean the inside of the tracks as part of the service, particularly for tilt-in or sash windows. Resistance or jamming might indicate something was missed.

5. No Signs of Scratches or Glass Damage

Unfortunately, poor-quality tools or rushed work can lead to scratched glass. Check each pane closely for surface damage. Even small scratches can catch the light and compromise the visual quality. Professionals use the correct grade of scrapers and non-abrasive materials designed specifically for glass, ensuring that no damage occurs during the cleaning process. Always report any damage immediately for insurance purposes.

6. Streak-Free Interior and Exterior

While many customers focus on the exterior of their windows, the interior glass is just as important. Professional window cleaning includes both sides, particularly if you’ve requested a comprehensive service. After the cleaners have left, inspect both the inside and outside for uniform clarity. Disparities between the two may point to a lack of attention to detail.

7. No Water Ingress or Leakage

If high-pressure water or large amounts of liquid were used during cleaning, it’s vital to ensure that no water has seeped into your walls, window cavities, or floors. Check for any signs of dampness or bubbling in paint near window edges, especially in older properties or where sealant is worn. A professional service should know how to manage water usage and angle cleaning tools appropriately to avoid water ingress.

8. Proper Reinstallation of Screens or Shutters

If your windows have insect screens, security grilles, or interior shutters that were removed during cleaning, make sure they’ve been reinstalled properly. Loose or misaligned fittings can cause operational issues or present a safety risk. Professional cleaners should ensure that any removed components are securely and correctly reattached before completing the job.

9. High Windows and Skylights Fully Cleaned

It’s easy to miss the upper floor or hard-to-reach windows—especially if you haven’t had time to inspect them closely. A reliable cleaning service will bring the proper ladders or telescopic equipment to clean all windows, regardless of height. If skylights or clerestory windows were part of your contract, ensure they’ve been addressed just as thoroughly as ground-level glass.

10. Left Area Tidy and Safe

Once the cleaning is finished, the workspace should be as tidy—or tidier—than before the team arrived. Check for puddles, ladders left behind, or cleaning cloths and buckets forgotten in corners. Safety is paramount, particularly in commercial or public spaces. A true professional service leaves no trace, aside from spotless windows.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: How long should professional window cleaning last?

The frequency depends on your location and environment. For residential homes, every 2–3 months is typical. Commercial properties may require monthly or even weekly cleaning.

Q2: Is it normal to have streaks after window cleaning?

No. Streaks indicate improper cleaning technique or dirty tools. Professionals use purified water and high-quality tools to eliminate streaks entirely.

Q3: Do window cleaners also clean screens and sills?

Most full-service professionals include screen, sill, and frame cleaning in their package. Always confirm beforehand what is included in the quote.

Q4: What should I do if my windows are scratched after cleaning?

Take photographs immediately and contact the cleaning company. Professional services carry liability insurance to cover damage caused during cleaning.

Q5: Why hire professionals instead of cleaning windows myself?

Professionals offer better tools, techniques, and safety equipment. They reach high windows, avoid streaks, and protect your windows from damage—all while saving you time.

Q6: Can rain undo professional window cleaning?

Light rain won’t significantly impact professionally cleaned windows. What causes dirty windows post-cleaning is usually airborne dust, pollen, or greasy residue—not rainwater.

Conclusion

Hiring a professional window cleaning service provides an instant lift to the look and feel of your home or business. But the real value lies in ensuring that the job has been carried out with care, precision, and attention to detail. By checking each of the ten points listed above, you hold your service provider to a high standard and protect your investment.

Professionally cleaned windows not only shine—they perform better, last longer, and contribute to the safety and appeal of your property. A professional team will welcome your inspection and be ready to address any issues without hesitation. After all, true craftsmanship leaves nothing behind but clarity.

Discover the impact of professional window cleaning on your space! Whether you’re managing a high-rise residential or commercial building, crystal-clear windows make all the difference. Visit London Window Cleaners to explore our expert services. Take the first step toward a brighter, more inviting environment by contacting us online or calling (44) 20 3954 2900 or (44) 7983 444 210.