Most of us are quick to clean the floors, wipe down the counters, and dust off the shelves—but when was the last time you took a good look at your windows? They’re easy to forget, but dirty windows can quietly take a toll on your home’s appearance, light levels, and even the longevity of the glass itself.
Sure, you could take a swipe at them with some spray and paper towels, but sometimes a surface-level clean just doesn’t cut it. Here are five clear signs it’s time to bring in the professionals.
1. Your Windows Still Look Dirty After You Clean Them
You’ve scrubbed. You’ve wiped. You’ve even done that circular motion everyone swears by. But your windows still have streaks, spots, and a cloudy look that just won’t quit. That’s usually a sign that household products aren’t enough. Over time, windows collect a mix of dust, hard water minerals, pollen, and even pollutants from the air. These aren’t always visible until they’ve built up into a stubborn film.
Professional cleaners use commercial-grade solutions and specialized techniques to remove these layers effectively—leaving your windows not just clean, but completely clear.
2. Hard Water Stains and Mineral Deposits Are Setting In
One of the most common and overlooked problems is hard water staining. These are those white or grey spots that appear after rain or sprinkler water dries on the glass. What you’re seeing is a residue of minerals like calcium and magnesium, and if left alone, they can become etched into the glass permanently.
Trying to remove these with basic household cleaners often leads to frustration—and in some cases, damage. A professional window cleaning service knows how to safely treat and remove mineral deposits before they turn into long-term problems.
3. You’re Getting Less Natural Light Than Usual
If your home feels a bit dimmer lately, dirty windows might be the culprit. Even a thin layer of grime can reduce the amount of sunlight filtering into your rooms. This affects not just the look of your home, but your mood as well. Natural light is a major factor in how bright and spacious your interiors feel.
After a professional cleaning, homeowners are often surprised at how much more sunlight pours in. It’s one of the fastest ways to give your home an instant refresh—no renovations required.
4. Some Windows Are Just Out of Reach
Cleaning windows on the ground floor? Doable. But what about those awkward ones above the staircase? Or the tall windows at the back of the house that require climbing a shaky ladder on uneven ground?
When safety becomes a question, it’s time to call in the pros. Trained window cleaning technicians are equipped with the proper ladders, poles, harnesses, and know-how to clean those hard-to-reach areas without putting anyone at risk. And let’s be honest—your time is probably better spent not hanging off the side of your house with a squeegee.
5. It’s Been… a While
If you’re not sure when your windows were last cleaned professionally, it’s probably been too long. Ideally, windows should be cleaned at least twice a year to prevent buildup that can damage both the glass and the frames. In areas with more weather variation—or homes surrounded by trees, construction, or heavy traffic—you may need cleanings more frequently.
Regular maintenance isn’t just about appearances. It actually extends the lifespan of your windows by preventing corrosion, etching, and deterioration of seals. Think of it as a small investment in avoiding costly repairs or replacements down the road.
Read Also: How Professional Caulking Extends the Life of Windows
A Clear Difference for Your Home
At the end of the day, clean windows aren’t just a “nice to have”—they’re an important part of keeping your home well-maintained, safe, and looking its best. From removing hard water stains to improving your indoor lighting and catching early signs of window wear, professional window cleaning offers value far beyond the surface.
If you live in Ottawa and Gatineau and recognize any of these signs in your own home, it might be time to schedule a professional service. Cody Building Services has the tools, training, and experience to tackle even the trickiest windows—safely and thoroughly. Because sometimes, a little clarity goes a long way.