We treat your home like our own
Our technicians respect your privacy and protect your interior with surgical precision wearing shoe covers, using drop cloths, and leaving your space spotless.
Explore moreProtecting your property with full-service window care and
$11 Million in insurance coverage. Serving residential and
commercial clients since 2006.
Established NYC expertise 20 YEARS Serving since 2006
We clean on average 500,000 Windows per year
Unmatched reputation
730+
5-Star reviews
When windows fail, it's more than glass. It's safety, comfort and reputation on the line.
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SPRAT-certified rope access and owned aerial lifts for safe, scaffolding-free drops on skyscrapers.
Tailored exterior and interior window maintenance schedules for office buildings and corporate facilities.
Spotless, streak-free clarity for apartments and townhouses using white-glove interior protocols.
Off-hours retail window cleaning to protect your brand image with zero disruption to customers.
Surgical, zero-scratch removal of drywall dust, cement, and silicone from newly installed glass.
Safe, no-step access protocols to restore natural light without putting weight on fragile overhead glass.
Deionized pure-water washing to remove urban soot and instantly boost your system’s energy yield.
Gentle, low-pressure exterior cleaning to safely remove algae and grime from delicate facades and siding.
Surgically extracting failed insulated glass units (IGUs) without ripping out your original frames.
Fast, safe extraction of shattered panes with laser-matched glass tints and Low-E coatings.
Freeing painted-shut frames and repairing mechanisms for double-hung, casement, and sliding windows.
Upgrading degraded weatherstripping and structural caulking to lock out NYC winter chills.
Replacing snapped spiral balances, broken tilt-latches, and faulty locks with exact-match OEM parts.
Rapid deployment of heavy-duty tempered and laminated safety glass into commercial aluminum framing.
Hydraulic floor closer replacement, top pivot alignment, and ADA-compliant hardware upgrades.
Sound-dampening, frameless architectural glass dividers that ensure acoustic privacy in your office.
Code-compliant, heavy-duty tempered glass staircases and balcony railings with premium metal hardware.
24/7 rapid dispatch to secure compromised storefronts with heavy-duty plywood, mitigating business risk.
Surgically buffing out deep scratches to restore optical clarity, saving you from full glass replacement.
Advanced polishing to erase corrosive acid-etch tags and key scratches from commercial displays.
Chemical extraction of calcified mineral runoff and hard water spots from architectural glass.
Exact-fit custom fabrication using standard aluminum or premium TruScene® micro-mesh.
Laser-measured, exact-fit wall mirrors with premium polished edgework for gyms and luxury interiors.
Architectural tinting that blocks 99% of harmful UV rays, preventing furniture fade and reducing glare.
Eco-friendly extraction of urban soot from brick, limestone, and terracotta using safe rope access.
Providing physical sounding support and drops for your QEWI (engineer) during mandatory inspections.
Immediate “Make-Safe” hazard mitigation, masonry pointing, and caulking to clear unsafe DOB violations.
Direct access to our proprietary fleet of aerial platforms (up to 300′) and IPAF-certified operators.
More than 2 decades of experience in property maintenance.
24/7 Emergency Glass & Board-Up
High-Rise Specialists (SPRAT / OSHA)
Aerial platforms up to 300 feet high.
Full-service window and façade programs, Local Law 11 inspections, Façade 360™ membership, and predictable budgets.
Window cleaning and repair, energy-efficient replacement, screens, mirrors, films – everything your home windows need.
Storefront window cleaning, emergency board-up, storefront glass and door replacement.
High-rise window cleaning, pressure and soft washing, caulking, bird protection, facade maintenance,
interior glass,
partitions
and railings.
New construction glazing, post-construction window cleaning, punch-list repairs.
Signs and advertising boards installation and maintenance, solar film installation and glass scratch removal, safety netting assistance, telecom antenna access, metal maintenance, sunroom cleaning and repairs.
More than 2 decades of experience in property maintenance.
Cleaning, repair, replacement, glass systems, façade services and Local Law 11 – all planned and executed by one expert team. No finger-pointing between vendors.
We manage the lifecycle of your windows and façade: scheduled cleaning, inspections, preventive repairs and long-term planning instead of emergency fixes.
Rope access, BMU, aerial lifts, OSHA & SPRAT training, $11M insurance, Local Law 11/FISP compliance – your building stays safe and inspection-ready.
Broken glass, storm damage, or a safety issue? Our emergency crew is ready around the clock for board-up and glass replacement. Not just on a ground level – but at any height up to 300 feet.
Two decades of excellence in New York façade and glass services.
Our goal is to streamline your building’s exterior maintenance. We go beyond simple cleaning to help manage the health of your façade. Instead of reactive fixes, we offer a proactive plan.
As a Member Client, you get a unified solution for cleaning, inspections, and maintenance, simplifying your operations and ensuring consistent care.
Proven experience handling some of the most challenging high-rise buildings in NYC
We come to your building, check the condition of the windows, and listen to your concerns.
You get a straightforward price with options - repair where possible, replacement where necessary.
Nights, weekends, or regular hours - we fit the project into your timeline, not the other way around.
Repairs or replacements completed fast, clean, and compliant. Tenants stay happy, owners stay confident.
You can expect nothing less than excellence in window services. Our services are backed by well-known certifications, rigorous training, and a proven track record.
Rope access, BMU/davits, aerial lifts, water-fed poles, interior access for hard-to-reach windows.
Fully insured with no height restrictions. We handle permits, safety plans and DOB requirements.
We work with Qualified Exterior Wall Inspectors (QEWI).
SPRAT-certified rope access technicians, OSHA-trained crews, experienced field supervisors.
Serving all five boroughs and beyond
Whether you manage a high-rise portfolio or own a single home, we’ll build a window and façade plan that fits your property and your schedule.
Our technicians respect your privacy and protect your interior with surgical precision wearing shoe covers, using drop cloths, and leaving your space spotless.
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Full-service window and façade programs, Local Law 11 inspections, Façade 360™ membership, predictable budgets.
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From scheduled cleaning and graffiti removal to protective film application and rapid glass replacement. We ensure your brand always looks flawless.
Explore moreA squeegee is the single most important tool in any window cleaner’s kit. It removes water and cleaning solution from the glass in one smooth pass, leaving a streak-free, residue-free surface. Professional window cleaners typically choose squeegees with soft rubber blades – they glide across the glass without scratching and hold up well through hundreds of windows per day. Before the squeegee touches the glass, a scrubber sleeve or strip washer loosens dirt, dust, and grime so the squeegee can do its job cleanly.
Types of Window Washing Soap
Most professional window cleaners rely on a simple mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap. This low-suds solution breaks down everyday buildup without leaving a film behind. For tougher jobs – hard water stains, oxidation, or post-construction residue – crews may switch to specialized glass-cleaning detergents or add a small amount of white vinegar to cut through mineral deposits. Regardless of the product, the technique matters more than the brand: wash the glass thoroughly with a soapy applicator, then squeegee from top to bottom in overlapping strokes and detail the edges with a lint-free cloth.
For most homeowners, scheduling a professional window cleaning at least twice a year – once in spring and once in fall – is enough to keep glass in solid condition. These seasons offer mild temperatures and lower humidity, which helps cleaning solutions dry evenly without streaking.
Commercial properties need more attention. Storefronts, office buildings, and restaurants typically benefit from quarterly cleanings – or even monthly in high-traffic areas where dust, exhaust, and fingerprints build up fast. The right frequency also depends on the environment: buildings near construction sites, busy roads, or the waterfront may need extra rounds to stay presentable. A reliable cleaning company can assess your property and recommend a schedule that makes sense for your situation.
Start with licensing and insurance – any legitimate pressure washing company should carry both general liability and workers’ compensation coverage. Ask for proof before signing anything; this protects your property and shields you from liability if something goes wrong on the job.
Next, check online reviews on Yelp or reviews on Google. Pay attention not just to star ratings but to how the pressure washing company responds to complaints – that tells you a lot about their professionalism. Look for specific mentions of punctuality, communication, and final results.
Always request a written estimate that breaks down the scope of work, square footage, and any additional charges for stain treatment or surface sealing. A trustworthy pressure washing company will walk your property before quoting rather than throwing out a number over the phone.
Cleaning windows on skyscrapers is a highly specialized job that demands trained technicians, strict safety protocols, and purpose-built access equipment. The most common method is a suspended scaffold – also called a swinging stage or bosun’s chair – that hangs from roof-mounted davits or tieback anchors and lowers crews down the facade section by section.
For buildings with permanent maintenance systems, building maintenance units (BMUs) mounted on the rooftop provide motorized platforms that travel along the facade on fixed tracks. Where neither option is practical, mast climbers, aerial lifts, or rope access techniques certified by SPRAT or IRATA give crews the flexibility to reach difficult angles and setbacks. The method depends on building height, facade geometry, and local safety regulations – on a large tower, a full exterior cleaning can take several days to complete.
Commercial window cleaners bring training, equipment, and safety protocols that in-house staff simply cannot match. They work with professional-grade squeegees, water-fed pole systems, and lift platforms designed to handle everything from ground-floor storefronts to multi-story curtain walls – without disrupting your daily operations.
Beyond appearance, experienced commercial window cleaners help protect your investment. Airborne pollutants, hard water mineral deposits, and construction dust can etch into glass over time, leading to costly restoration or full pane replacement. Routine professional cleaning removes these contaminants before they cause permanent damage, extending the life of your windows and preserving the building’s curb appeal at a fraction of the repair cost.
A professional pressure washing service removes built-up dirt, mold, mildew, algae, and grease that regular garden hoses cannot touch. Left untreated, these contaminants trap moisture against surfaces and accelerate deterioration – wood rots faster, concrete spalls, and painted finishes peel years ahead of schedule.
Professionals know how to match pressure levels and nozzle types to each material. A brick facade, a wooden deck, and a vinyl awning all require different PSI settings; too much force can gouge soft surfaces, while too little leaves stains behind. A reliable pressure washing service gets the balance right the first time, protecting your property while restoring its appearance.
The result is not just cosmetic. Routine pressure washing extends the lifespan of exterior finishes, reduces long-term maintenance costs, and keeps your property looking well-maintained between major renovations.
The key difference is heat. Power washing uses high-pressure water heated to elevated temperatures, which makes it highly effective at cutting through grease, oil, gum, and stubborn organic growth on hard surfaces like concrete driveways, sidewalks, and loading docks.
Pressure washing relies on the same high-pressure water stream but at ambient temperature. It works well for routine cleaning of siding, wood decks, masonry, and other surfaces where excessive heat could cause damage or force moisture into porous materials.
In short, power washing is the heavier-duty option for deep cleaning, while pressure washing is better suited for regular maintenance and more delicate surfaces.
Consider the following factors before making a decision:
License and Insurance: Ensure the company is licensed and insured in your state to cover any potential issues.
Experience in Window Cleaning: A company with years of experience is better equipped to handle unexpected problems.
References: Check for references or reviews from past clients to help you decide.
Affordable Costs: National companies typically charge more than local businesses due to higher overhead costs. If price is a significant factor, a local contractor is usually a better choice.
Big Apple Window Cleaning offers top-quality residential and commercial window cleaning services in New York City, known for its experience, customer satisfaction, and safety. Trust Big Apple Window Cleaning for unparalleled window-cleaning services in NYC, focusing on customer satisfaction and safety.
Yes, and the differences go beyond building size. Residential window washing focuses on private homes – single-family houses, townhouses, and condos – and typically involves standard double-hung or casement windows that crews can reach from inside the unit or with short ladders. Most homeowners schedule residential window washing once or twice a year, with extra attention to screens, sills, and tracks.
Commercial work operates on a different scale. Office towers, retail spaces, and mixed-use buildings often require suspended scaffolds, rope access, or aerial lifts just to reach the glass. The scope is broader too – commercial crews may handle facade washing, metal frame detailing, and hard water stain removal alongside the glass itself. Safety protocols are stricter, with OSHA and building-specific requirements dictating how crews access every floor.
The cleaning fundamentals are the same – soapy water, a scrubber, and a squeegee – but the equipment, access methods, scheduling demands, and regulatory oversight make commercial and residential window washing very different operations in practice.
Finding the best local window washing services can be achieved using a combination of online resources and personal recommendations. Online platforms like Angi, Thumbtack, HomeAdvisor, Yelp, and HomeGuide are excellent starting points. These sites offer comprehensive directories of local service providers, complete with ratings and reviews from past customers. This information can be invaluable in determining the quality of a company’s work and its level of customer service.
Once you have identified potential service providers, it’s recommended to get in touch with each one to ask about their services. Request specifics on what their window cleaning service entails, whether they are insured, how long they’ve been in business, and if they can provide references. A professional company will have no issue answering these questions and providing the requested information. It’s also beneficial to ask for a free estimate to understand the cost involved.
Personal recommendations can be another great way to find top-quality window washing services. Ask friends, family, or neighbors if they have used any local window cleaners and if they were satisfied with the service received. Word-of-mouth referrals often lead to reliable and trustworthy service providers. By taking these steps, you can ensure that you’re hiring a reputable, high-quality window washing service in your local area.
Getting your window screens professionally cleaned is a great way to ensure that your windows remain clean and free from dirt, grime, dust, cobwebs, and other debris. Professional cleaners are experienced in this particular task and have the right tools and techniques to do the job efficiently. They also have access to powerful cleaning agents that can make short work of even the most stubborn dirt buildup on any window screen. This means you get far better results than you would with DIY methods or regular household cleaning products.
Having professionally cleaned window screens also increases their lifespan since they don’t become weakened by harsh chemicals or scratched by improper scrubbing techniques used during DIY jobs. Regular professional cleaning makes sure that all contaminants are removed properly so that no damage is done to your screens in the process. Furthermore, having them cleaned regularly can help reduce allergens inside your home as well as create a healthier indoor environment for everyone living there.
When you search for a power washing company near me, Google uses your device’s location to serve results from your immediate area. Make sure your phone’s location services are turned on before searching – without that signal, Google may return companies from a wider radius that have nothing to do with your neighborhood.
Once you have local results, start by reading reviews on Google Maps and Yelp. Focus on how each power washing company near me handles complaints, whether they show up on time, and what customers say about the final results. Narrow your list to two or three providers, then call each one directly. Ask about their licensing, insurance coverage, equipment type, and how they price the job – per square foot, per hour, or flat rate.
A reputable company will have no problem answering these questions and offering a written estimate after inspecting your property in person.
Finding a reputable construction cleaning service near you is quite straightforward. Begin by conducting an online search to identify the top-rated services in your area. You can use a search engine like Google to do this. The results should provide you with a list of professional cleaning companies that specialize in post-construction clean-up. These companies often have websites where they detail their services and offer free quotes. You could also use local service directories or review platforms to compare different companies and read reviews from previous customers.
Before choosing a company, there are a few key factors to consider. First, check if the company provides the specific cleaning services you require, such as rough cleaning, final cleaning, dusting, surface and wall cleaning, or steam cleaning. Then, consider the cost of the service. Some companies may include exterior cleaning and junk removal in their service package, while others might charge extra for these services. Lastly, ensure the company has a good reputation by reading customer reviews and testimonials. This will give you a sense of the quality of their service and their reliability.
Pressure washing can be environmentally friendly, depending on the techniques and cleaning solutions used. When pressure washing is done with just water, it doesn’t introduce harmful chemicals into the environment, making it an eco-friendly cleaning method. The high-pressure water jet is often sufficient to remove dirt, dust, mildew, and other common types of surface grime, eliminating the need for harsh chemical cleaners.
However, certain types of stains or substances may require the use of cleaning solutions in addition to water. In such cases, it’s important to use biodegradable and eco-friendly cleaning products that won’t harm the environment. Moreover, responsible water usage is another crucial aspect of making pressure washing more environmentally friendly. By using water efficiently and avoiding wastage, we can reduce the environmental impact of pressure washing.
The cost of hiring a professional window cleaner depends on several factors: the number and size of windows, the type of cleaning required (regular wash, initial deep clean, or post-construction cleanup), building height, and access method. In New York City, a typical residential apartment cleaning ranges from $150 to $500, while whole-building commercial projects can run from $1,000 to $10,000+ depending on the scope.
Prices in the city tend to run higher than national averages due to building access logistics, insurance requirements, and labor costs. Co-ops and condos often require Certificates of Insurance and super coordination before a crew can even begin – all of which factor into the final estimate. Jobs that require rope access or scaffolding cost more than standard interior-exterior cleaning accessible from inside the unit.
At Big Apple Window Cleaning, we provide free, no-obligation estimates based on an actual assessment of your property – not a generic per-window formula. This way you know exactly what you are paying for, with no hidden charges. The estimate covers the scope of work, access method, timeline, and any additional services like screen cleaning or hard water stain removal.
For small, low-risk tasks – patio furniture, a backyard grill, or a personal vehicle – a rented consumer-grade pressure washer can do the job. Stick to a wide-angle nozzle (25° or 40°), keep the tip at least 12 inches from the surface, and test on an inconspicuous area first. Too much pressure on soft wood, painted siding, or aged mortar will cause damage that costs more to fix than the cleaning itself.
For anything beyond that – building facades, sidewalks, driveways, storefronts, or any surface you are not 100% sure can handle high pressure – hire a professional. The risks scale fast: a wrong nozzle on brick can blow out mortar joints, and hitting old caulking around windows can force water into wall cavities. Professionals know how to match PSI, flow rate, and detergent to each material, and they carry liability coverage in case something goes wrong.
In New York City there is an additional layer to consider. Pressure washing a sidewalk or building exterior often requires compliance with NYC DEP stormwater regulations, and some co-op and condo boards mandate that only licensed, insured contractors perform exterior cleaning. Before renting a machine and going at it yourself, check your building’s rules and local requirements.
Every building facade takes a beating from weather, pollution, and biological growth. In New York City, that process is accelerated – exhaust particulates, road salt mist, pigeon droppings, and acid rain attack surfaces year-round. Left untreated, these contaminants do more than look bad. They penetrate porous materials like limestone, brownstone, and brick, trapping moisture that leads to spalling, efflorescence, and long-term structural decay.
Professional facade cleaning removes these deposits before they cause permanent damage. Crews use methods matched to the material – low-pressure chemical washing for prewar masonry, steam cleaning for ornamental terra cotta, and controlled pressure washing for concrete and metal panels. DIY attempts or unqualified contractors often apply too much pressure, blowing out mortar joints or etching soft stone.
There is also a compliance angle. Under NYC Local Law 11 (FISP), buildings taller than six stories must undergo periodic facade inspections. A clean facade makes it easier for your engineer to assess the actual condition of the exterior, and proactive cleaning can help avoid costly “unsafe” findings that trigger emergency repair orders. For co-ops and condos, a well-maintained facade also protects property values and keeps the board ahead of capital planning.
Proper solar panel cleaning requires tools that remove dirt effectively without scratching the glass or damaging the anti-reflective coating. Professionals use soft-bristle brushes, rubber-blade squeegees, and deionized water systems that leave zero mineral residue on the surface – important because water spots reduce light absorption just like dirt does.
For cleaning solutions, a mild, pH-neutral soap mixed with water is the safest option. Harsh chemicals, ammonia-based cleaners, or abrasive pads can degrade the protective coating and void manufacturer warranties. In New York City, rooftop panels also collect a heavy layer of urban particulates – soot, exhaust residue, and construction dust – that bonds to the surface more aggressively than typical suburban grime, making professional-grade deionized water systems far more effective than a garden hose and sponge.
Access is another factor. Most rooftop solar arrays in the city sit on flat or low-slope roofs with parapet walls, fall protection requirements, and limited staging space. Without proper safety equipment and training, cleaning panels yourself is not just inefficient – it is a liability risk.
Pricing depends on what you are cleaning, how large the area is, and how much buildup has accumulated. A small residential job – a front stoop, patio, or short driveway – might start around $150 to $300. Larger projects like a full building sidewalk, parking garage entrance, or multi-story exterior can run $500 to $2,000+ depending on access and surface type.
The material matters too. Concrete and bluestone handle high pressure well, while brick, wood, and stucco need lower PSI and sometimes chemical pre-treatment to avoid damage – that extra care adds to the cost. Mold, grease, or graffiti removal often requires specialized detergents and additional passes.
In New York City, expect prices to run higher than suburban averages. Tight sidewalk access, pedestrian traffic management, DEP stormwater compliance, and building insurance requirements all factor into the final number. The most reliable way to get an accurate estimate is to have a crew assess the site in person rather than quoting blind over the phone.
No. High-rise window cleaners cannot work in dangerous weather conditions. OSHA regulations prohibit rope access and suspended scaffold work during high winds, and most crews follow a hard stop at sustained speeds above 25 mph. In Manhattan, canyon effects between buildings can double or triple wind speed at upper floors compared to street level – so a calm day on the sidewalk does not guarantee safe conditions at the 30th floor. Rain and subfreezing temperatures create additional problems: wet glass streaks instead of cleaning properly, and icy platforms make scaffolding and rope systems dangerously slippery.
Experienced high-rise window cleaners build weather delays into every project plan and reschedule rather than push through marginal conditions. This protects the client from paying for a job that will need to be redone. In a city with nor’easters, sudden wind gusts, and winter freeze-thaw cycles, a flexible scheduling approach is the sign of a crew that knows what it is doing.
Start with experience specific to your project type. Post-construction cleaning for a gut-renovated brownstone is a different job than cleaning a new commercial buildout – the surfaces, debris types, and sensitivity of finishes vary significantly. Ask how many similar projects the company has completed, and verify that they carry both general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. In New York City, many buildings also require a Certificate of Insurance naming the property owner or management company as additionally insured before any crew enters the premises.
Then look at the details. A qualified construction cleaning company should explain their process clearly – rough clean, light clean, and final touch are distinct phases, not one pass with a mop. Check whether they handle window cleaning, pressure washing, and debris removal in-house or subcontract it out. Read Google reviews with an eye on how they handle complaints, not just star ratings. And always get a written scope of work with a flat price rather than a vague hourly estimate – post-construction jobs are notorious for hidden costs when the scope is not defined upfront.
Open blinds and curtains, clear window sills, and create easy access to each window. Secure pets, flag any windows that are stuck or difficult to open, and let your super or building management know if building access is required. This speeds up the job and helps protect interior finishes.
While often used interchangeably, these terms have distinct meanings. A professional window cleaning company provides comprehensive service, while a window washing company may focus primarily on glass. At Big Apple window cleaning company, we offer complete cleaning services that address all window components for superior, longer-lasting results throughout New York City.
| Feature | Window Washing | Window Cleaning |
| Glass cleaning | ✓ Yes (primary focus) | ✓ Yes |
| Frame cleaning | ○ Sometimes | ✓ Always included |
| Sill cleaning | ○ Sometimes | ✓ Always included |
| Screen removal/cleaning | ✗ Rarely | ✓ Available |
| Track cleaning | ✗ Rarely | ✓ Always included |
| Hard water stain removal | ○ Basic only | ✓ Professional-grade |
| Typical service depth | Surface-level | Comprehensive |
| Recommended frequency | Monthly | Bi-annually (Spring/Fall) |
Our professional window cleaning process ensures every component is thoroughly cleaned for maximum clarity and longevity.
As a professional window cleaning company, Big Apple Window Cleaning runs a predictable workflow so your building stays compliant, access is smooth, and the supervisor can close out with a walkthrough.
| Step | What happens | What you should do |
| 1) Estimate | You share details, we scope access and condition | Send photos, floor/wing info |
| 2) Scheduling | We lock a date/time window | Confirm tenant/manager availability |
| 3) Building requirements | COI/insurance docs and any rules | Coordinate with management early |
| 4) Cleaning day | Crew checks in, sets access method, cleans | Provide access via lobby/basement/roof |
| 5) Walkthrough & closeout | Supervisor reviews results, resolves punch items | Do a quick final check on-site |