While it's a pretty straightforward job to polish the interior of your windows, a window's exterior is often neglected because the task is so inconvenient. No matter how clean you make the inside of your windows, dirt and grime can easily build up on the outside. Even though there's a fair amount of precipitation in Pittsburgh, window cleaning is much more than simply letting the rain hit the outside of your house. When the build-up becomes too much, and your windows' exteriors are simply too foggy for comfort, it's time to call in the pros.
Benefits of Professional Pittsburgh Window Cleaning
When you think of Pittsburgh window cleaners, the first picture that comes into many minds is a person with a squeegee suspended high in the air on the outside of a building like Mellon Center. This is certainly one facet of professional window cleaning, but it is not the only one. In fact, many window cleaning companies do a lot of work on houses that are only two or three stories high.
If you live in a multi-storied house, you already know how daunting a task it is to climb up on a ladder with a bucket and sponge just to wipe a window. To many a practical homeowner, cleaning those high windows really isn't worth the trouble. It's inconvenient, risky, and, of course, they're just going to get dirty again, anyway. By hiring professional window cleaners, Pittsburgh residents can have beautifully clean and clear glass, without the threat of breaking a leg or the worry of having to do it all again the next time.
One of the best reasons to opt for professional window cleaning in Pittsburgh is actually the additional service some companies provide. Aside from just washing those hard to reach windows, many professionals offer other ladder heavy services such as sweeping chimneys and cleaning gutters. In some cases, you might be able to hire one service for one day and get your chimney swept, your skylight scrubbed, your gutters cleaned, and have your windows professionally polished (you might even find a service that will get the inside of your windows and clean the blinds to boot).
Equipment and Techniques of Pittsburgh Window Cleaners
A spray bottle of ammonia and a clean rag or piece of newspaper is all most people require to clean their interior glass. However, when you're paying money to hire a professional window washer, Pittsburgh residents should expect a bit more than these meager tools. A ladder fitted with a roof stabilizer is needed in many cases to prevent damage to gutters or siding (homeowners with slate roofed houses should make certain to tell the crew before hand, as slate is very brittle and could crack under any added pressure). They will also bring some special low-pressure washing equipment. This kind of system is safe to use on any window or siding and provides a stunning and streak-free clean that would be hard to achieve otherwise.
Since regulations on window cleaning are pretty loose, anybody can take an ad out saying that they are a professional window washer. While you are comparing estimates, it is a good idea to ask questions about how long the company has been around, how they choose their employees, and what kind of equipment they will be using.
Professional Window Cleaning Prices
For professional window cleaning, Pittsburgh residents should expect a bill of around $250 for most jobs. The process doesn't take very long, and in most cases, it can be finished in an afternoon. Try and make an appointment when the forecast is for clear weather. Windows can actually be cleaned pretty well in the rain, but the job will likely take longer, and your crew will probably prefer the sunshine. 
Jon Nunan is a freelance writer who draws on his experience in construction, ranging from landscaping to log home building, for his articles on home improvement.