After 26 years in the window cleaning business throughout the Washington metro area, I’ve learned one thing: a rain forecast doesn’t always mean it’s going to rain.
In fact, meteorologists often include a chance of rain in the late afternoon forecast, typically between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. A close friend of mine is a meteorologist, and through many conversations with him, I’ve gained a better understanding of why this happens.
Weather forecasters are evaluated based on accuracy. If rain is predicted and even a brief shower occurs, the forecast is considered correct. On the other hand, if rain never arrives, most people simply move on with their day.
Over the years, we’ve seen countless customers cancel window cleaning appointments solely because rain appeared in the forecast. Unfortunately, many of those days turned out to be perfectly suitable for cleaning windows.
Our Rain Policy at Mr. Windows
Our approach is straightforward. If the forecast calls for a 70% or greater chance of rain in the area where we will be working, we generally recommend rescheduling. Safety always comes first, and wet conditions can create hazards when using ladders, walking on slippery grass, or navigating through shrubs and landscaping.
However, if the forecast is below 70%, we typically keep our scheduled appointments. If rain begins while we’re working, we can often continue with interior cleaning until the weather passes. In the case of heavier rain, we’ll simply return on another day to complete the exterior work. This approach respects both our customers’ schedules and our employees’ time.
Does Rain Make Windows Dirty?
The short answer is no.
If rain alone made windows dirty, you wouldn’t see professional window cleaners working year-round in places like London. Dirt doesn’t come from rainwater—it comes from pollen, dust, airborne pollutants, and other contaminants that accumulate on the glass.
When we clean windows, we use a professional cleaning solution and remove it immediately with a squeegee. This process lifts away dirt, oils, and residue, leaving the glass clean and clear. Once those contaminants are removed, the window remains just as clean after a rain shower as it was the day it was washed.
Our Philosophy
At Mr. Windows, we believe in being optimistic, staying flexible, and doing everything possible to complete the job while keeping our customers happy. This time-tested approach has served us well hundreds of times over.
And on the rare occasion that we guess wrong and get caught in the rain? We dry off, head home, and smile—knowing we made the decision that gave our customers the best chance of getting their windows cleaned.