Window cleaning problems: what can go wrong (and how we prevent it)
This is the stuff people worry about but most companies won’t say out loud. Here’s the honest breakdown of what can go wrong with window cleaning, what causes it, and exactly how Mr. Juniper avoids the mess.
We confirm scope before scheduling. If anything changes, you’ll know before we do the work.
Most people regret cheap — never quality. We build results you can see from the street.
Problem 1: Drips, streaks, and “it looked clean… until the sun hit it”
This happens when glass is rushed, solution isn’t properly removed, or edges aren’t detailed. Sometimes it’s also mineral residue from tap water on exteriors.
- What causes it: rushed squeegee work, dirty rubbers, no edge detailing, hard water drying on glass.
- How we prevent it: controlled solution, clean tools, edge detail, and spot-free pure water on exterior glass when appropriate.
Problem 2: Water on floors, sills, and window ledges
Interior cleaning should never feel like a “wet job.” The most common issue is over-wetting frames and not controlling runoff.
- What causes it: overspray, soaked towels, no containment, rushing the finishing steps.
- How we prevent it: disciplined towel control, wipe-down workflow, and shoe covers to keep your home clean.
Problem 3: Scratches on glass (rare, but real)
Scratches usually come from debris being dragged across glass, or from using the wrong tools on construction residue. This is why professional process matters more than “just getting it wet.”
- What causes it: sand/grit, overspray, improper scraping, dirty pads, rushing screens/frames first.
- How we prevent it: pre-rinse where needed, safe tool choices, and “clean the dirt before the glass” discipline.
Problem 4: Tracks and screens still look rough after service
Many companies price “glass only,” then do the minimum on the parts that actually make the window feel finished. If your screens and tracks are heavily soiled, that’s not a 30-second add-on.
- What causes it: glass-only pricing, underbidding, and no time budget for detail work.
- How we prevent it: clear scope up front, and we confirm condition so you’re not surprised.
Problem 5: “Hard water stains” that don’t come off
Some spotting is removable with a standard clean. Heavy mineral buildup is glass restoration, not basic cleaning. The key is identifying which you have before anyone starts aggressively scrubbing.
- What causes it: irrigation overspray, long-term mineral buildup, and hot sun baking deposits into the glass.
- How we handle it: we communicate what’s realistic, and if restoration is needed we’ll quote it separately.