During the winter months, especially when temperatures drop below zero, people wonder whether window cleaning is still safe. One of the most common concerns we hear from homeowners is about ice forming on the ground outside the house after the windows have been cleaned.
It’s a sensible question — and the honest answer is that it can be a safety risk if it’s not handled properly.
Window cleaning involves water, and when it’s freezing outside, any water that lands on a driveway, patio, path or pavement can quickly turn to ice. Even a thin, almost invisible layer of ice can be slippery enough to cause a fall. That’s obviously something nobody wants, whether it’s a homeowner, a visitor, or the window cleaner himself.
That said, window cleaning doesn’t automatically become unsafe just because it’s cold. The key difference is how the job is finished.
A professional window cleaner should always think about what happens after the cleaning is done. In freezing conditions, that means using ice-melting grit on any areas where water may have run off. Applying grit greatly reduces the chance of ice forming and makes surfaces safer to walk on.
If grit isn’t used, then yes — cleaning windows in sub-zero temperatures can leave behind a real slip hazard. This is why it’s so important to choose a window cleaner who takes winter safety seriously rather than just rushing through jobs.
As a homeowner, it’s reasonable to ask your window cleaner about this. If the temperature is below freezing, simply asking whether they use grit after cleaning can give you peace of mind. Any responsible professional will understand the concern and be happy to explain what precautions they take.
There may also be rare occasions, such as during heavy snow or prolonged hard frost, when postponing the clean is the safest option. Again, a good window cleaner will always put safety first and won’t take unnecessary risks.
In short, window cleaning in freezing weather isn’t unsafe by default — but it does require extra care. If water is allowed to freeze on outdoor surfaces, it becomes a risk. When ice-melting grit is used properly, that risk is greatly reduced.
If you’re ever unsure, just ask. A professional window cleaner should always be working with your safety in mind, whatever the season.