Reaching New Heights: Introducing Drone Cleaning Solutions

Not long ago, window-cleaning drones sounded like science fiction. Today, some companies claim it’s the only solution you’ll ever need — cheap, easy, and a total replacement for traditional methods. But, like any cleaning solution, it has specific use cases and limitations. 

That’s why working with an experienced exterior building maintenance provider is essential—they have the expertise and service range to tailor a maintenance plan to your building’s unique needs. From our extensive years of expertise, we know the areas that are ideal for our drone cleaning service: 

• Windows
• Roofs
• Skylights
• Signage
• Façades
• Solar Panels
• Cladding
• Vents/Louvers

It’s important to keep in mind that our Drone Cleaning Solutions are just one tool in the full range of exterior building maintenance solutions we offer. We combine cutting-edge drone technology with traditional cleaning methods to give every building the right care. Wondering if drone cleaning is right for your building? Let’s take a closer look.

A New Way to Reach the Unreachable 

We’re enhancing commercial window and façade cleaning possibilities with innovative drone technology. This cost-effective service is ideal for buildings with limited façade access via roof anchors and rope descent systems (RDS). Designed for routine maintenance, our cleaning drone uses a soft washing technique to gently remove dirt and debris from windows and façades — delivering up to 80% of the effectiveness of traditional methods.

Certain buildings pose unique challenges for traditional window cleaning and pressure washing— that’s where our Drone Cleaning Solutions come in. Any property with limited roof anchors— as is often the case for apartments, townhomes, and condos, as well as industrial buildings— benefits from this safer alternative since it eliminates the need for costly scaffolding or lift rentals. Universities and large campuses can also see significant savings, while drones easily reach architectural features like overhangs, clock towers, and signage — delivering spotless results safely and efficiently.

When Drone Cleaning is NOT Ideal 

It’s important to note that there are some limitations on when and where drone cleaning can be used. For example, signal interference or flight restrictions can limit efficiency in dense urban areas. In areas over 150 feet, traditional cleaning methods are necessary due to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) height restrictions. Understanding these limitations can help you determine where drone cleaning fits best within your overall exterior maintenance strategy.

Additionally, while the Valcourt Group’s drone cleaning is cutting-edge, it’s not always the best solution. Heavily soiled buildings with built-up grime, mildew, or debris need deep cleaning beyond a drone’s capability. Hard water stains and oxidation streaks demand hands-on scrubbing. 

How Drone Cleaning Works

Step 1: Hazard Evaluation

To ensure safety, we conduct a thorough hazard evaluation, assess the site, identify risks, and set up protective barriers for pedestrians.

Step 2: Drone Cleaning

Our FAA-licensed operator uses variable pressure cleaning with a rinsing agent and deionized water from an on-ground system that is tethered to the drone. This soft wash method removes dirt and debris from glass and façades. Equipped with radar sensors, the drone maintains a safe distance from the building at all times.

Step 3: Final Inspection

Once the job is completed, the operator performs a final review of all cleaned surfaces to ensure the work meets our quality standards. While drone cleaning is effective, we set clear expectations that it may not be perfect for every situation. This step helps ensure a consistent, professional result.

Key Benefits of Drone Cleaning Solutions

After over a year of testing and refining our drone window cleaning methods, we’ve built reliable, efficient solutions for a variety of building types and conditions. With detailed planning for multiple scenarios and environments, you can trust that your property is in capable hands — backed by proven results and professional expertise. Our Drone Cleaning Solutions offer:

1. Improved Accessibility

Drone cleaning allows buildings with zero or limited roof anchors to maintain spotless windows without the need for anchor installations or complex rigging systems. Reaching every corner just got easier, as our drone window cleaning service delivers precision cleaning up to 150 feet high. Drone cleaning effortlessly tackles high-rise exteriors, overhangs, false balconies, and intricate architectural details—no scaffolding, lifts, or risky manual labor needed. It can even reach difficult-to-reach areas, including portions of a building with gaps in coverage, through traditional means of access from the roof.

2. Enhanced Compliance and Safety

Our Drone Cleaning Solutions eliminate the need for workers to operate at dangerous heights. FAA Part 107 licensed operators ensure full compliance with aviation and safety regulations, while built-in collision prevention and emergency landing features enhance security. With comprehensive aviation insurance and thorough site safety evaluations, we deliver a cutting-edge, risk-averse solution for exterior cleaning.

3. Reduced Costs

The primary focus of our work is to ensure safety, accessibility, and efficiency, but our drone cleaning solutions can also provide cost savings. Drone cleaning eliminates the need for expensive scaffolding and lifts and reduces labor costs while delivering fast, high-quality results for difficult-to-access areas where lifts and scaffolding may be required. 

4. Minimal Disruption

Window and façade cleaning is essential for building maintenance, but traditional methods can disrupt daily activity. Our drone cleaning solution delivers spotless results while minimizing impact on tenants and pedestrians. Operating swiftly and quietly, drones reduce noise, obstructions, and downtime.

Safe, Smart, and Efficient Maintenance Solutions

Building maintenance is evolving, and we’re leading the way with cutting-edge Drone Cleaning Solutions. Our safe, efficient, and cost-effective solution is designed for property managers, building owners, and engineers looking to streamline operations through innovation. 

We’re expanding our drone cleaning services across the Valcourt Group brands—now available at 10 companies and counting. We are excited to add this game-changing solution to our offerings, as it makes window and façade cleaning possible for buildings once considered inaccessible due to limited anchors or other access challenges. Drone cleaning is another valuable addition to our comprehensive portfolio of services. While it may not always be the ultimate solution some claim it to be, it’s an innovative approach that enhances our ability to effectively tackle our clients’ building maintenance challenges.

Contact us today to schedule a demo or get a customized quote for your property!