How to price window cleaning and build a round
How window cleaners can price by property, window count or time, set minimums, add gutters and conservatories, and grow a profitable round.
RoughFigure2 min read
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Knowing how to price window cleaning properly is the key to a profitable round. Window cleaning is regular work, so small pricing mistakes repeat every few weeks, for years. Get it right at the start and every new customer adds to your profit.
This guide gives a method, not market rates. Your prices depend on your costs, equipment and area.
Choose a pricing method
Most window cleaners price in one of these ways:
- By property type: terraced, semi-detached, detached, flat. Quick and easy for customers.
- By number of windows: fairer for unusual properties.
- By time: work out how long each property takes, then price to your target hourly rate.
Whichever you use, check it against time. A property that looks quick but has awkward access or high windows can take twice as long.
Work out your target hourly rate
Add up what you need to earn, your van, water-fed pole system, insurance, fuel and other costs, and the hours you can realistically work allowing for weather. That gives a target rate per hour. Then price each property so the time it takes hits that rate. See how to price a job and our free pricing calculator.
Minimum charges
Small properties still need travel, setup and pack-down. A minimum charge per visit keeps them worthwhile. See call-out charges and minimum charges.
Extras that add value
Offer extras with clear prices:
- frames and sills;
- conservatory roofs;
- gutter clearing and fascia and soffit cleaning;
- solar panel cleaning;
- inside windows.
Extras increase what each visit earns and give customers a reason to stay with you.
Frequency
Regular customers on a set frequency, such as every four or eight weeks, make planning easy. A one-off clean usually takes longer and is often priced higher.
Build the round in clusters
Customers close together are more profitable than the same number spread out. When you clean one house, offer neighbours a price too: a leaflet or a knock on the door while you’re working nearby. Read marketing ideas for tradesmen.
Show prices online
Most window cleaning customers just want a quick price. An instant estimator can ask property type, windows, frequency and extras, then show a price and capture the booking request.
Questions
Should window cleaners charge per window or per house?
Per house type is simpler; per window is fairer for unusual properties. Many use house type with adjustments.
How often should I increase my prices?
Review once a year, with notice to customers, to keep up with costs.
Should I charge more for a first clean?
Often yes, because first cleans take longer, especially if the windows haven’t been cleaned for a while.
For keeping regular customers, see how to get more Google reviews.
