The Short Version
If you're booking only one side, book the exterior — that's where dirt, pollen, water spots, and bird droppings show up. Interior is usually quoted as an add-on. Booking both at the same visit is almost always cheaper than scheduling two separate appointments.
What's in Each Scope
Exterior cleaning usually includes:
- Squeegee or water-fed pole wash on all accessible exterior glass
- Window-frame and exterior sill wipe-down
- Removal of cobwebs, leaves, and surface dirt
- Spot treatment for normal grime (sprinkler overspray and hard water are usually extra)
Interior cleaning usually includes:
- Drop cloths over furniture and floors near each window
- Squeegee wash of all interior glass
- Track and interior-sill cleaning (often more time-consuming than the glass itself)
- Screen handling — usually a separate add-on per screen
Why Interior Costs More Per Window
Exterior work is fast: the crew sets up once, blasts through the perimeter of the house, and is done. Interior is slow: drop cloths down, furniture moved, tracks vacuumed, sills wiped, screens out and back in. A clean interior visit on a medium home can take longer than the exterior.
That's why per-window interior is typically $1–$3 more than exterior. But when you book both, the crew is already on-site with full setup — you're not paying twice for travel and prep.
When to Book Just the Exterior
- Spring after pollen season — exterior takes the brunt of yellow film.
- Late summer in dusty regions — wind-blown grit and bug splatter accumulate.
- After a storm, especially if your area gets coastal salt spray or muddy runoff.
- Before listing your home — exterior is what shows up in photos and at the curb.
When to Book Both
- Twice a year for most homes (spring and fall).
- Before hosting a holiday or party — interior glare from clean glass adds a surprising amount of light to a room.
- After a renovation — drywall dust settles on interior tracks and inside sills.
- When moving in, before furniture goes against walls.
Bundling Tips
Most professional crews quote an interior add-on at a discount when paired with exterior — typically 30–50% less than the standalone interior rate. If a company doesn't offer a bundle discount, ask. Most will match a competitor's combined price.
Also worth asking about: maintenance plans. Many companies discount a twice-yearly bundle by 10–15% off the per-visit rate, which adds up quickly for larger homes.