Rain, Pollen, & Puget Sound Mist: How Local Weather Affects Your Windows
Rain, Pollen, & Puget Sound Mist: How Local Weather Affects Your Windows
Seattle’s unique climate plays a huge role in how quickly your windows get dirty. While the city is famous for its frequent rain showers, other factors like pollen in spring and summer, as well as the salty mist from Puget Sound, also affect the cleanliness and longevity of your windows.
Rain is a double-edged sword for windows. On one hand, it naturally rinses away dust and dirt. On the other hand, because Seattle’s rainwater is relatively soft and often combined with airborne pollutants, it can leave behind stubborn mineral spots and streaks that dull the glass. These water spots can accumulate over time and even etch into the surface if not cleaned properly.

Pollen, especially in late spring and early summer, coats windows with a fine yellowish dust that becomes sticky when wet. When combined with rain, pollen can turn into a grimy film that’s tough to remove and can encourage mold growth in humid conditions.
Then there’s the Puget Sound mist, a subtle but persistent source of moisture and salt deposits. Salt particles carried by the mist can accelerate the buildup of grime and contribute to corrosion of window frames, especially those made of metal. This combination of moisture and salt means that Seattle’s coastal homes often require extra care to protect their windows.
How Often Should Seattle Homes Get Their Windows Cleaned?
Because of these weather conditions, the question of how often to clean windows is very relevant for Seattle homeowners.
Most experts suggest a minimum of twice a year for window cleaning — typically in the spring and fall. Spring cleaning targets the removal of winter grime and pollen buildup, restoring clarity after the wet, dark months. Fall cleaning is crucial to prepare your windows for the heavy rains of winter and to remove the summer’s accumulated dirt and salt deposits.
However, depending on your home’s location and exposure, you might need to clean more frequently:
- Homes near the water or in neighborhoods with high pollen counts may benefit from quarterly cleanings.
- If your property is surrounded by trees, frequent pollen and sap deposits can warrant more regular maintenance.
- Residences in urban areas with higher pollution might see faster dirt accumulation.
- Skylights, being exposed to direct sun and rain but difficult to reach, also benefit from more frequent cleaning.
Regular cleaning not only keeps your view crystal clear but also prevents dirt and debris from wearing down window seals and frames, ultimately extending the lifespan of your windows.
From Skylights to High-Rises: Tackling Challenging Window Jobs Safely
Seattle’s diverse architecture means window cleaning isn’t always a simple job. From small skylights nestled on residential roofs to towering glass high-rises downtown, each situation demands a different approach and a high degree of care.
Skylights are notoriously tricky to clean because they’re often hard to reach and prone to leaks if not handled properly. It’s important to use the right cleaning solutions that won’t damage seals or coatings and to avoid excessive water pressure. Many homeowners hire professionals with the proper tools and experience to prevent damage.
For high-rise buildings, safety and expertise become paramount. Professional window cleaners in Seattle utilize specialized equipment such as scaffolding, suspended platforms, or rope access systems (often called “industrial abseiling”) to clean windows dozens of stories above the ground. These workers are rigorously trained in safety protocols to prevent accidents while delivering spotless results.
Even for lower stories with difficult access—like windows surrounded by landscaping or architectural features—using the right tools (extendable poles, squeegees, and eco-friendly cleaning agents) ensures a thorough job without damage.
In Seattle, the weather can be both a friend and foe when it comes to window maintenance. While rain provides natural rinsing, it also brings deposits that require regular cleaning. Pollen and salt mist add additional layers of challenge to keeping your windows pristine.
For most Seattle homes, a biannual cleaning schedule works well, with adjustments made based on location and window type. And when it comes to challenging windows like skylights or high-rises, professional expertise and proper equipment are key to a safe, effective clean.

Keeping up with these tips means your windows will not only look better but last longer, letting you enjoy Seattle’s beautiful views year-round.
