At Cleantech, we get this question often: “Can you power wash windows — or is that asking for trouble?” It turns out the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. With the right tools, settings, and care, pressure washing windows can work — but you need to treat them differently than siding, driveways, or decks. If you live in Columbus, Dublin, Hilliard or other parts of Central Ohio, it’s worth knowing the pros, cons, and smart approaches before grabbing the pressure washer.
The Appeal of Pressure Washing Windows
Many homeowners like the idea of pressure washing windows because it promises a quick, convenient clean — especially if your house has a lot of windows, or second-story windows that are hard to reach. A pressure washer can:
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Remove stubborn dirt, pollen, or nearby driveway grime without much elbow grease.
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Clean large windows or many windows in far less time than traditional squeegee and spray-and-wipe methods.
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Let you reach higher windows (with extension wands) without climbing ladders or balancing precariously.
In some cases — particularly with durable modern windows and proper technique — pressure washing can leave glass looking bright and clean with minimal fuss.
For a company like Cleantech, which brings decades of exterior-cleaning experience across Central Ohio, we’ve seen that efficiency and power washers go hand in hand when done right.
The Risks and Why Many Pros Warn Against It
Despite the appeal, many experts strongly caution against pressure washing windows — and for good reason. Windows are fragile relative to concrete, wood siding, or stone, which makes them vulnerable. Here are the key risks:
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High-pressure water can crack or shatter glass, especially older or thinner panes.
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Forceful spray may damage window seals, leading to leaks, condensation, or drafts.
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Water can be driven behind screens or into frames, risking moisture infiltration and mold or rot.
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Narrow-angle nozzles or too-close spraying increase the chance of damage, scratching, or seal failure.
Because of these risks, many window specialists recommend sticking to traditional cleaning tools — squeegees, soft cloths, water-fed poles — especially for older homes, painted frames, or sealed double-pane windows.
If You Do Pressure Wash Windows: Best Practices
If you decide to move forward with power washing, treat it as a gentle, precision job — not a heavy-duty exterior blast. Consider these guidelines to minimize risk:
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Use a pressure washer with adjustable settings and keep pressure low — generally under ~1,400 PSI (or whatever the lowest safe pressure your machine allows).
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Select a wide-angle nozzle (a fan tip, e.g., 40-degree or similar) rather than a narrow, concentrated spray.
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Keep the nozzle at least 12–18 inches away from the glass, and spray at a slight angle rather than head-on.
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Make sure all windows are tightly closed and seams or seals are taped if possible to prevent water intrusion.
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Test on one small window first. Check for leaks or damage before proceeding to others.
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Use gentle cleaning solution or mild detergent if needed; avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive soaps.
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Rinse slowly and evenly; avoid lingering water streams in one spot.
If you follow these precautions, you stand a better chance of a successful wash — but even then, it’s a bit of a balancing act.
When You Should Skip Pressure Washing Windows
Sometimes, pressure washing just isn’t worth the risk. It’s better to skip the power washer entirely when:
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Your windows are older, single-pane, or have fragile frames or seals.
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The house has painted or sealed window frames that could be damaged.
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You have custom glass, stained glass, or delicate finishes.
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The buildup is minimal (dust, pollen, light dirt), where a basic hose and squeegee will do the job with no risk.
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You’re not confident you can control spray distance, nozzle angle, or pressure effectively.
In these cases, traditional hand-cleaning methods are safer and more reliable.
Considering Professionals: When It’s Worth Calling Cleantech
At Cleantech, we specialize in exterior cleaning for residential and commercial properties across Central Ohio. We carefully assess each surface — whether it’s siding, roof, concrete, or windows — to choose the safest, most effective cleaning method.
You might want our help if:
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You have many windows, high windows, or hard-to-reach panes.
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You’d rather trust trained pros to manage pressure settings, nozzle types, and water flow.
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You want to combine window cleaning with a larger exterior cleaning project (house washing, siding, gutters, etc.).
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You prefer avoiding potential damage or future seal failures.
Because our service area covers Columbus, Delaware, Dublin, Gahanna, Hilliard, Grove City, Westerville, and surrounding communities, you can easily find whether we’re servicing your neighborhood via our Service Areas page.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
So — can you power wash windows? Yes, but only if you approach the job with caution, respect for the fragility of glass, and the right technique. For many homeowners, a regular hose with a wide-spray nozzle or a traditional squeegee approach might be the smarter, safer choice.
If you’re not sure whether your windows are a good candidate for pressure washing — or you’d rather leave it to professionals — Cleantech is here to help. Our team brings years of experience, the right equipment, and careful methods to deliver great results with minimal risk.
Ready to get your windows — or entire exterior — cleaned safely and efficiently? Call us at (614) 279-3787 or visit our Contact page to request a free quote. Want to know more about who we are and what we do? Check out our About Us page.
Let’s make your home shine — safely.
