The short answerDrone window cleaning relies on spraying from a distance, usually with purified water that reduces drying marks. It suits curtain walls and tall glass for routine cleaning. Tough stains may still need contact.
A curtain wall is a building's business card, but it is also a large, high surface that is hard to reach. The less access equipment cleaning requires, the easier it is to schedule regularly.
Why does the type of water matter?
Regular water leaves minerals on glass as it dries. Equipment guides in the field therefore recommend purified water for glass. On large areas of glass the difference shows, especially against the sun.
Worth asking: what water do you use, how is it purified, and what happens to cleaning products that run down?
What can you expect?
| Type of dirt | What usually happens with spraying |
|---|---|
| Dust and dry rain marks | Suits routine cleaning |
| Bird droppings | Sometimes needs soaking or another pass |
| Old scale and minerals | Usually needs contact treatment |
| Paint, cement and construction residue | Not suited to spraying alone |
The table is meant to set expectations, and the actual result depends on the glass and its condition. So it makes sense to start with a test on a small section.
When is it especially worthwhile?
- Buildings that are hard for a height crew to reach.
- Routine cleaning at a fixed frequency, rather than one-off restoration.
- Glass above areas that are hard to close for long.
- Cleaning before an event, a shoot or a project handover.
What can get in the way?
- Wind. It deflects the spray and makes work close to the facade harder.
- Strong sun. Fast drying increases marks, so the hour and side of the building are chosen accordingly.
- Obstacles. Balconies, signs, antennas and existing cleaning cradles.
- Coordination. Flying in an urban area requires planning with building management and under the rules that apply to the flight.
How do you plan regular cleaning?
- Test a sample section and photograph before and after.
- Set the frequency by the surroundings: closeness to the sea, a busy road or dust.
- Agree fixed days and hours with building management.
- Agree what is included and what needs separate treatment.
Common questions
Can windows that open be cleaned?
Yes, but make sure they are shut during the work and that the seals are sound.
Does this replace cleaning from inside?
No. The drone treats the outside only.
See also how a whole facade is washed, or go to the service page.
