Window Washing Technicals

The Traditional Window Cleaning Method (“Trad”)

Best for interior windows and detail work:

• Uses squeegees, mops, extension poles, towels, scrubbing pads, and razors.

• Great for storefronts, entrances, and interior windows up to 2 stories.

• Minimizes water runoff and allows for high-precision detailing.

Squeegee Techniques:

• Reverse S-Pattern (high skill, fast and clean)

• Straight Pulls

• Snake Stroke

• Overlap Method

Often to referred to as “Trad” in the industry, Traditional cleaning methods are highly effective in safety cleaning window both indoors and out.

Equipment used with the traditional window cleaning method:

• Traditional squeegees, Mops and solution buckets

• Cleaning towels for drying, buffing and detailing

• Extension poles which reach up to 2 stories

• Scrubbing pads of the Walnut and ultra-fine 0000 steel wool variety

• Precision razors for safety scraping off adhesives and stubborn debris 

• Micro abrasive solutions for the safe removal of mineral deposits

When the method is deployed:

• Inside:

• For the high level of detail that can be achieved.

• Low volume of liquid required for cleaning and the low volume of resulting run-off when compared to the Water Fed Pole Method.

• Outside:

• High speed cleaning of windows which are accessible within reach from the ground level, often 8’ in height or less.

• High precision areas. For example, high precision cleanings of the building’s main entrances.

The Art of the Squeegee

Various patterns can be used to remove the cleaning solution and grime from the glass surface. These require various levels of skill and result in different production speeds. The most common are as follows:

1. Reverse S Pattern: Starting from the top left corner, make an "S" shape by pulling the squeegee downwards and then reversing the direction at the bottom, creating an "S" pattern. Repeat across the window. This window cleaning method requires high skill, but when performed correctly is extremely effective and quick. This is the mark of a true professional.

2. Straight Pull or Straight Stroke: A simple vertical or horizontal straight line from top to bottom or left to right, using the squeegee blade to remove the cleaning solution in a single, continuous motion.

3. Snake Stroke: Similar to the reverse S pattern, but instead of reversing at the bottom, continue in a zigzag motion across the window, resembling a snake's movement.

4. Circular Stroke: This pattern involves moving the squeegee in circular motions, starting from one corner and working towards the opposite corner, covering the entire window in circular sweeps. This method is also very fast and effective.

5. Overlap Stroke: Use a standard straight pull stroke but overlap each stroke slightly to ensure complete coverage and removal of cleaning solution from the entire window surface.

These patterns are used to efficiently remove cleaning solution and achieve a streak-free finish when cleaning windows using a squeegee in the traditional method. Different patterns may be preferred based on the size and shape of the window, as well as the cleaner's personal technique and comfort.

Here's a summary of the traditional technique:

1. Tools and Equipment: It involves using a squeegee, a scrubber or mop, a bucket filled with a cleaning solution (often a mix of water and window cleaning detergent), and a cloth for drying and buffing.

2. Preparation: The process starts by preparing the cleaning solution and filling the bucket. The solution is applied to the window using a scrubber or mop.

3. Scrubbing: The window surface is scrubbed thoroughly to loosen and remove dirt, grime, and other residues.

4. Squeegeeing: A squeegee is then used to remove the cleaning solution and dirt from the window surface. The squeegee is dragged horizontally or vertically across the window, starting from the top and moving downwards in overlapping strokes. This process helps in removing the solution and achieving a streak-free finish.

5. Drying and Detailing: After squeegeeing, a cloth or chamois is used to dry the edges and any remaining moisture on the window to ensure a completely clean and clear surface.

Traditional window cleaning is effective but can be labor intensive, especially for larger or multi-story buildings which is why we often choose our second method, WFP.