Why routine cleaning matters on the coast
In Santa Cruz, panels face a unique mix of salt spray, mist, bird droppings, and redwood pollen. That buildup scatters light before it reaches the cells and can shade strings unevenly. While rain helps a little, it does not carry away sticky residue or mineral spots. A scheduled wash with purified water and soft tools clears the surface so the sun can do its job.
Beyond energy yield, there is a second reason to keep glass clean: longevity. Grime can trap moisture along frames, and abrasive grit left on the surface may cause micro‑scratches if wiped dry. Our approach avoids harsh chemicals and keeps the rinse free of dissolved solids that could leave marks as it dries.
Common local buildup
- Salt crystals from ocean air
- Fog‑borne dust and soot
- Pollen from cypress and redwood
- Bird droppings on edge strings
- Leaf litter in frame channels
Risks of DIY scrubbing
- Scratching from hard pads or dry wiping
- Mineral spotting from tap water
- Walking on fragile tiles or shingles
- Using detergents that void warranties
Our safe method
- Soft brushes designed for PV glass
- Purified water rinse with resin filtration
- Non‑slip roof access and tie‑offs
- No abrasive powders or harsh solvents
What you can expect
We show up on time, walk the property, and confirm access. Ladders are set at the correct angle and tied in. Gutter screens and fragile flashing are noted so nothing is disturbed. Panels are rinsed first to lift grit, then brushed with soft fibers while a steady stream of purified water carries away residue. Frames, edges, and lower channels are flushed so debris does not wick moisture back onto the glass. A final polish‑free rinse leaves a clean surface that dries clear.
Typical visit flow
- Arrival and safety setup
- System check from ground level
- Rinse to remove loose dust
- Soft‑brush cleaning of each panel
- Edge and channel flush
- Site cleanup and final walkthrough
What we bring
- Pure water system with resin cartridges
- Non‑marking ladders and stabilizers
- Fall‑protection as needed
- Soft brushes for glass and frames
- Drop cloths for landscaping below
Every roof is different. We adjust brush pressure to the panel type and check seals before we start. If we see cracked glass, lifted wiring, or nesting activity, we note it and proceed with care. The goal is a clean surface and a tidy site—nothing more, nothing less.
Cleaning frequency in Santa Cruz
Along the coast, most systems benefit from service two to four times per year. Homes within a mile of the ocean or near busy roads build up film faster. After wildfire events, an extra visit helps remove ash that bonds with morning dew. We can set a schedule that follows the seasons and keeps output stable.
| Site conditions | Suggested cadence | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Near ocean spray or on bluff | Quarterly | Salt and mist leave fine crystals |
| Within town, light tree cover | 3x per year | Pollen and road dust vary by season |
| Forest edge or heavy birds | Quarterly | Droppings may shade cells unevenly |
| After ash or construction | As needed | Request an extra rinse to lift residue |
Care for roof types
Santa Cruz roofs range from clay tile and composition shingles to standing‑seam metal. Each surface has its own footing and weight limits. Our team uses ladder stand‑offs and walk boards where needed, and we avoid stepping on tiles that could crack under point loads. Metal seams are treated as no‑step zones unless protected. If panels are ground‑mounted, we shield nearby plants from overspray and place mats to avoid muddy tracks.
Tile roofs
We place weight on lower edges, never mid‑span, and keep tools off ridges. Broken pieces are noted and photographed for the owner.
Composition shingles
Ladders use wide feet, and we avoid turning on the surface to keep granules intact. Foot traffic is kept to a minimum.
Metal roofs
We avoid walking on panels or seams unless protected. Non‑slip footwear and tie‑offs are used where required.
Pricing guidance
Every system size and access point is different, so we price by array layout, height, and site conditions. To keep things simple, we provide a clear written quote after a quick look at your setup. Multi‑story access, steep pitches, and heavy buildup may require extra time. Ask about bundle pricing if you would like window washing during the same visit.
What shapes cost
- Number of panels and strings
- Roof height and pitch
- Access points and ladder placements
- Ground mount vs. roof mount
- Degree of soiling or ash
Good photos from the ground help us quote quickly. Please include wide shots and one close‑up of typical residue.
Ready to schedule?
Call or email and we will set a time that works for you. Most visits take one to two hours for a typical home array. We aim to keep the site protected, the work neat, and the communication clear from start to finish.
Phone: +1 (760) 560-8771 | Email: alohawindowwash@gmail.com
Service address: 21139 E Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Company site: https://alohawindowwash.com/
Frequently asked questions
Do you use soap?
For most jobs we rely on purified water and soft brushes only. Certain residues may need a mild, panel‑safe cleaner that is fully rinsed away. We never use abrasive powders or high‑alkaline solutions.
Will it void my warranty?
Manufacturers commonly require soft tools and water that does not leave mineral spots. Our method aligns with those standards, and we avoid practices frequently flagged in warranty terms, such as pressure washing or abrasive pads.
How do you reach hard panels?
We use extension poles, stand‑offs, and, when needed, fall‑protection systems that keep technicians safe while avoiding roof damage. If a panel cannot be reached safely, we will say so and propose an alternate plan.
How soon will I see results?
In clear weather you should notice a cleaner look immediately. System monitoring often shows steadier output on the next sunny day, especially if the array had visible film or droppings before service.
What about rain?
Light rain after our visit will bead and run off. Heavy storms can bring dust that dries on the glass. That is why a seasonal schedule works well in our area.
About Aloha Window Wash
We are a local service company based in Santa Cruz. The work is performed by trained technicians who follow clear safety steps and respect the property. We keep communication simple, arrive with the right tools, and clean up after the job.
Values
- Do the job safely or not at all
- Protect the roof and landscaping
- Be punctual and communicate clearly
Coverage area
Santa Cruz, Capitola, Soquel, Aptos, Live Oak, Pleasure Point, and nearby communities throughout the county.
Other services on request
Window washing, screen cleaning, and light exterior rinsing can be scheduled with the same visit if the timing works.
How we measure quality
Quality shows up in the small details. Ladders have clean feet. Brushes are soft and free of grit. Rinse water reads zero on a TDS meter so it dries spot‑free. We photograph areas of concern before and after cleaning and share those notes with the homeowner. If something is not right, we fix it.
Checklist highlights
- Panels pre‑rinsed to lift grit
- Gentle brush strokes with constant flow
- Edges and frames cleared
- Walkways and plants protected
- Site left clean, gear accounted for
After‑service care
You do not need to wipe or polish the surface. If heavy dew leaves minor spotting from nearby sprinklers, let the morning sun dry the glass. Avoid high‑pressure nozzles and hard pads between visits.
Get a quote
Send a note with your address, a rough panel count, and a couple of photos. We will reply with a clear price and the next available time slot. For faster service, calling during business hours is best.
- Phone: +1 (760) 560-8771
- Email: alohawindowwash@gmail.com
- Website: https://alohawindowwash.com/