You’ve Got a Friend in High Places

At the Valcourt Group, we’ve been in the window cleaning business for decades. We’ve seen it all. The smudges and streaks, the dirt and cloudiness, the bird droppings and graffiti, and–yes, thick layers of pollen! Indeed, dirty windows block natural light, reduce energy efficiency, and negatively impact the building’s image.

On the flipside, sparkling clean windows add to the aesthetics of both modern and historic buildings. Well-maintained windows also increase building value and attract potential tenants or customers.

So how can you go from dirty and dingy to clean and bright? It’s not as simple as a one-time service. To get the best value from commercial window cleaning, a recurring program is best. Discuss the following with your preferred provider to determine the best frequency and timing for your assets.

Risks and Safety Concerns

Cleaning high-rise windows can be a risky task that requires proper safety measures. Workers must deal with heights, heavy equipment, and unpredictable weather conditions. For example, wind can affect the stability of scaffolding or suspended platforms, while heavy snow or rain can create slippery and unsafe conditions. Flexible scheduling may be required so that the service can be performed in safe conditions.

Falls from high-rise buildings are also a significant risk and can result in severe injuries or death. For this reason, workers must use appropriate safety gear, including harnesses, helmets, and safety glasses, and follow safety procedures to minimize the risk of accidents.

Regulations and Standards

As a building owner, you are responsible for ensuring appropriate regulations and standards are followed during high-rise window cleaning procedures. For example, OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards for high-rise window cleaning specify the requirements for equipment, safety procedures, training, and certification. Discuss the specifics with your window cleaning provider up front to avoid any safety concerns, fines, or delays in service.

Equipment Used

Specialized equipment is critical to ensure safety, efficiency, and quality. This may include rope access, suspended scaffolding, and water-fed pole systems. Rope access involves using ropes and harnesses to access and clean windows from the exterior of the building. Suspended scaffolding is a platform that hangs from the roof of the building and allows workers to clean windows at different levels. Water-fed pole systems use pure water and a telescopic pole to clean windows without the need for scaffolding or ladders. Be sure and ask your provider to review the equipment that will be used on your buildings and why it is the best option.

Liability Insurance Considerations

A reputable service provider has liability insurance that covers any damage or injury that may occur during the cleaning process. Did you know? The Valcourt Group has an excess of $10M in liability insurance coverage. Moreover, we can provide customized cleaning plans that fit your scheduling needs and budget.

Budget Considerations

The cost of high-rise window cleaning services varies depending on several factors, including the size of the building, the number of windows, and the cleaning techniques used. However, hiring a professional service can save time and reduce the cost of service in the long run. The Valcourt Group offers discounts for regular cleaning services or multiple buildings.

Vendor Requirements

• Experience and certification: The service provider should have experience in high-rise window cleaning and certifications from relevant organizations. All The Valcourt Group high-rise window technicians are certified through OSHA and IWCA.
• Safety measures: The service provider should have appropriate safety measures and insurance. The Valcourt Group provides customized training for each technician and conducts monthly company-wide safety meetings to stay up to date on rules and regulations.
• Equipment and techniques: The service provider should have the necessary equipment and techniques to clean windows at different heights and angles.
• Cost and value: The service provider should offer competitive pricing and provide value for the service.
• Reputation and reviews: The service provider should have a good reputation and positive reviews from previous clients.

Want to know more? Valcourt is eager to continue this discussion with you. Please contact us for more information or to schedule your window cleaning services today!