How Much Does It Cost to Clean Windows in a Two-Storey House?

If you’ve ever Googled “how much does it cost to clean windows in a two-storey house,” you’ve probably come across a wide range of numbers. That’s because pricing isn’t one-size-fits-all — it’s shaped by things like your window types, accessibility, whether you’re after interior and exterior cleaning, and if you’re dealing with salt, sap, or stubborn cobwebs.

As someone who’s been restoring streaky glass across Melbourne suburbs for over a decade with the Window Cleaning Melbourne Crew, I can tell you there’s a right way to quote window cleaning — and it starts with understanding what you’re paying for.

What Affects the Cost of Window Cleaning?

1. Size and Layout of the Property

A two-storey home varies wildly in size. A compact townhouse with 12 windows is a different job to a five-bedroom home with multiple bay windows and glass sliding doors. More glass equals more time, more detailing, and often more gear. This applies whether it’s domestic window cleaning or commercial.

2. Number and Type of Windows

Different window types take different effort:

• Picture windows: Larger panes that take time to clean thoroughly.
• Louvres or colonial-style: More fiddly and time-intensive.
• Bay or floor-to-ceiling windows: May require extension poles or ladder work.

Some clients forget to include things like skylights or glass pool fencing in the count — but they can add up.

3. Access and Safety Considerations

Limited access or tricky layouts (think balconies, steep gardens, or narrow pathways) can increase labour time and may require:

• Harnesses or rope access (common in high-rise window cleaning)
• Extra safety equipment
• Specialist tools like water-fed poles

It’s not just about the height — it’s about how safely and efficiently we can reach every window.

4. Interior vs Exterior Cleaning

You can opt for exterior-only cleaning, but for truly clear results, inside counts. Interior cleans often cost less per window (since no ladders or safety gear needed), but require more prep — think moving furniture, laying drop sheets, and detailing tracks and sills.

5. Condition of the Windows

If it’s been years between cleans, expect higher costs. Why?

• Built-up grime takes longer to shift
• You might need de-cobwebbing, wasp nest removal, or mineral stain treatments
• First cleans often reveal issues like deteriorated seals or paint overspray

Once it’s on a regular cleaning cycle, the price typically drops.

What’s the Average Cost in Melbourne?

For a standard two-storey residential home, expect to pay:

• Exterior only: $180–$350
• Inside and out: $250–$500
• First-time or deep clean: Add 20–30% to standard pricing

High-end architectural homes or coastal properties (where salt and wind-blown sand do a number on glass) can be more. Conversely, if you’re after regular window cleaning (every 3–6 months), most pros will offer reduced rates.

Example Pricing Breakdown:

Let’s say you have:

• 18 standard windows
• 2 large sliding doors
• 2 upstairs feature windows
• Some flyscreens, sills, and cobwebs

For a full inside and out clean, that job might come in around $320–$380. If the windows are in poor condition, first-time cleaning may nudge that toward $450.

Extra Services That May Add to the Cost

• Window tracks and frames: Not always included — ask your cleaner
• Flyscreen removal and cleaning
• Balcony glass or pool fencing
• Glass roof panels or pergola covers
• Mould or calcium build-up removal

Whether it’s domestic window cleaning or more involved high rise window cleaning, always clarify scope before the job starts.

What Do Professional Window Cleaners Actually Do?

A proper exterior window cleaning job should involve:

• Brush-down of sills and surrounding areas (removing webs, dust, debris)
• Eco-safe detergent and pure water rinse
• Streak-free finish using squeegees or water-fed pole systems
• Wipe down of window frames (if included in scope)

Interior cleans also often include:

• Drop sheets or towels to protect the flooring
• Gentle cleaning of glass, frames, and sills
• Final inspection for smudges or drips

Tools Matter:

Don’t trust anyone still using household Windex and paper towels. Reputable cleaners use:

• Professional squeegees
• Microfibre cloths
• Deionised pure water systems
• Extension poles and ladders (or rope access for high-rise window cleaning)

Whether you need window cleaning for residential properties or larger commercial buildings, Window Cleaning Melbourne Crew has the gear and experience to get it done right.

How to Get an Accurate Quote

To avoid under or over-quoting, have this ready:

• Total window count (include doors, skylights, etc.)
• Type of windows (colonial, sliding, louvre, etc.)
• Photos (especially of tricky access areas)
• Whether you want interior cleaning too

Then ask:

• Is the quote flat rate or hourly?
• Does it include GST?
• Are screens, sills, and tracks included?
• Are they insured?

Better yet — get a few quotes and compare what’s actually included. Any reputable melbourne window cleaning company should provide a detailed, written quote.

Real-World Example: Two-Storey Coastal Property

We recently tackled a coastal home in Brighton with 24 windows, five glass doors, and ocean-facing balconies. The windows hadn’t been touched in over a year. Salt crust, spider webs, and a few bonus wasp nests added to the fun.

We used:

• Extension poles for the upper storey
• A deionised water system to avoid streaking
• Specialist stain remover for hard water marks

Total cost: $490 (inside and out), including screens and balcony railings. Took two techs about 4 hours.

Homeowner now books a quarterly clean at $320.

How to Keep Window Cleaning Costs Down

• Book regular cleans — they’re quicker and cheaper in the long run
• Bundle with other services — like pressure cleaning or gutter cleaning
• Prep the site — move furniture, clear access points
• Avoid peak season — spring and pre-Christmas are slammed

Final Advice

Prices can vary, but a good cleaner will always offer transparency. The cheapest quote isn’t always the best — especially if they’re vague, uninsured, or cutting corners.

If you want honest pricing, clean lines, and a long-term result, look for:

• Clear quote breakdowns
• Before/after photos on request
• Solid reviews
• Licensed, insured operators

Whether you’re looking for domestic window cleaning, window cleaning for residential properties, or high-rise window cleaning in Melbourne, you’re better off going with proven professionals.

FAQ

How often should I clean my windows?

Every 3–6 months for most homes. Coastal or bushland areas may need quarterly cleans.

Will window cleaning damage my tint or glass?

Not if done correctly. Avoid abrasive pads or ammonia-based cleaners on tinted windows.

Do I need to be home?

Only if interior access is required, otherwise, we’re fine to clean exteriors while you’re out — just give access instructions.

Can I clean second-storey windows myself?

Not safely. Unless you’ve got professional gear and know-how, leave it to the pros.

What if it rains on the day?

Light rain won’t affect the job. Heavy rain or storms may prompt a reschedule — we’ll always let you know ahead of time.