WINDOW CLEANING & WORKING AT HEIGHT A clear view of the future
David Saville, Managing Director of Vertical and Specialist Cleaning at Principle, offers an insight into the latest innovations the company has adopted to support one of the fastest growing divisions in the business – window cleaning.
The window cleaning sector has experienced something of a revolution in the last few years. For Principle Cleaning Services, it’s one of the fastest growing divisions in the business and the second largest operation of its kind in the UK. In 2023, Principle announced plans to partner with a leading robotics company to embed a window cleaning robot in their operation, and more recently has introduced another groundbreaking advancement – drone technology.
In recent years, the use of drones has expanded considerably in many industries, including window cleaning. Commercial window cleaning has traditionally been a labour-intensive job, especially for skyscrapers and other high-rise buildings. The integration of drone technology has introduced many positive changes, including improved safety, greater efficiency, cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits.
Drones can significantly enhance the speed and efficiency of window cleaning operations. Equipped with high-pressure nozzles, cleaning fluid dispensers and water recycling systems, modern drones can clean windows quickly and thoroughly. In large commercial buildings where window cleaning can take several days, or where some aspects of a building are difficult or impossible to reach by other methods, drones can complete such tasks expediently, translating into greater efficiency and more jobs completed in less time.
While the upfront cost of drone technology may be significant, the potential for long-term savings is considerable. This can make drone-based window cleaning a financially viable and sustainable option for clients, facilities managers and managing agents.
Many modern buildings feature complex architectural designs with difficult-to-reach windows, for example – angled glass panels, curved facades and narrow spaces. Drones can access areas that would be challenging or virtually impossible for human operatives. This capability ensures a more thorough cleaning, maintaining the building’s aesthetic appeal and transparency without compromising safety or quality.
Many drones used for window cleaning are designed with sustainability in mind. Some of their benefits include:
• Optimised water usage through advanced spray technology;
• Chemical-free cleaning, utilising only purified water;
• Elimination of fossil fuel-powered machinery (e.g. MEWPs and lifts); and
• Minimal noise and disruption, reducing the building’s operational impact.
As well as cleaning, drones can also collect data and inspect windows for damage or maintenance. High- resolution cameras and sensors allow operators to identify maintenance issues early, helping property managers make informed decisions about repairs before problems escalate.
50 | TOMORROW'S CLEANING
Drones are revolutionising commercial window cleaning by improving safety, efficiency, cost-effectiveness and sustainability. As technology continues to advance, the integration of drones in building maintenance is anticipated to become more widespread, setting a new standard in how facilities, property and asset managers maintain their buildings.
Despite its high-tech nature, drone window cleaning integrates surprisingly well into facilities management operations by offering a streamlined, efficient solution with minimal disruption.
Unlike traditional methods, drones require no scaffolding or heavy machinery, reducing set-up time and cost. As they are controlled remotely, a single operator can manage the entire process, simplifying staffing and coordination. Furthermore, drones are adaptable to a wide range of structures. The technology can be effortlessly incorporated into existing maintenance schedules, proving to be highly efficient without disrupting day-to-day operations or stakeholder experience.
Principle is in the very early stages of exploring drone technology, which we view as an exciting innovation with significant potential for future developments. As part of this strategy, we recently conducted a number of drone window cleaning trials.
Initial concerns regarding precision, control and safety were thoroughly addressed, resulting in a seamless cleaning process. The setup caused minimal disruption, required no permanent building modifications and was managed by a single pilot with remote oversight. This process is easily repeatable once permissions are in place.
Key outcomes include: • A reduction in cleaning time of over 75%. • Zero safety incidents.
• There was minimal disruption to building tenants and public spaces.
• Enhanced client satisfaction through the achievement of previously unattainable cleaning goals.
• The success of the trials has paved the way for wider adoption of drone technology.
Beyond its immediate practical applications, this technology serves as a powerful testament to the enduring and evolving role of human interaction and collaboration. Drone technology isn’t meant to replace all cleaning methods, but provides a crucial alternative in high-risk or complex, hard to reach environments. It also highlights the ongoing importance of human support in driving technological progress.
www.principleclean.com
twitter.com/TomoCleaning
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