CASE STUDY

How using a specialised drone to clean windows solved tricky canal-side access to deliver a long-overdue clean

Client: A national cleaning services company

Location: North London

Building Type: Six-storey glass-front office building

Service Used: Drone window cleaning

High-tech drone access over canal allowed glass to be cleared of years of build-up

Eco-friendly pure water system eliminated chemical run-off, avoiding canal pollution

Quick turnaround by efficient drone window cleaners restored attractive glass facade within hours

The Challenge: Striking canal-side glass facade marred by hard-to-reach grime

A modern office building with a striking glass facade presented a unique cleaning challenge. The building’s canal-side location made traditional access methods for high rise window cleaning impracticable, ruling out commonly-used but cumbersome options such as scaffolding and Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs). With no straightforward way to reach the canal-side exterior, years of city grime had built up, requiring an innovative approach to evenly clean the glass surface and restore it to its original glory.

The Solution: Use of a specialised drone to clean windows

A facilities management professional representing our client, a national cleaning services company, reached out to enquire if we could assist with this unique hard-to-reach cleaning challenge. In collaboration with the client, drone window cleaners SkyWash Drones put forward a cutting-edge drone-powered cleaning proposal. 

Our process for managing the cleaning project included the following essential steps:

Initial site survey

After a virtual meeting to introduce the project, we carried out a site survey to assess feasibility and collect information critical to effective project planning. This included recording details such as the specifications of the building, the availability of space for the set up of cleaning equipment and the safe deployment of the cleaning drone, and noting the presence of any obstructions or risks in the vicinity. Taking into account the site-specific information, a quotation for the out-of-the-ordinary office window cleaning project was compiled and provided to the client. 

Safe, convenient cleaning plan

After acceptance of the quotation by the client, our team set to work on creating a detailed customised cleaning plan. Safety protocols were adjusted to the site and comprehensive health and safety documentation was prepared and sent to the client for review. Our flexible scheduling process took into account the requirements and preferences of the client, along with operational considerations such as the busyness of the site on different days and drone flight planning data.

Pre-flight checks and set-up

On the day of the site visit, our team arrived early to set up. After meeting with the client and signing in, safety protocols were followed and the operational area was cordoned off, pre-check flights on the equipment were carried out and airspace permissions were re-verified. Use of the drone to clean windows was ready to commence.

Deployment and drone cleaning

Operating from a towpath across the canal from the office building, our expert pilots safely navigated the entire facade using a specialised drone designed to clean windows. The drone carried a hose with nozzle, connected to a hot, pure deionised water tank system on the ground. All glass and windows were effectively and uniformly cleaned with the hot, pure water, while our protocols assured public safety for the duration of the work.

Once the drone window cleaning was complete, our team spoke to​​​​ the client to confirm that they were happy with the work and then packed up and removed all cleaning equipment. 

Key features of our innovative drone-powered window cleaning solution

Key features included:

  • Efficient Deployment: By using a specialised drone to clean windows, we were able to reduce set-up time and resources used compared to conventional access methods;
  • Precision Control: The fine motor control and responsiveness of the drone allowed for thorough cleaning of intricate angles;
  • Hot, Pure Deionised Water System: Allowed effective removal of dirt without residue or hard water stains, achieving a streak-free clean without harsh chemicals;
  • Stringent Safety Planning: Strict protocols protected the building, its surroundings and passers-by.

Our innovative method transformed a seemingly unsolvable problem into a seamless operation, showcasing the efficiency of cleaning drone technology.

The Results: Hard-to-reach canal-side glass cleaned thoroughly, efficiently and safely

  • Entire front cleaned: Using a specialised drone to clean windows overlooking a London canal, a previously inaccessible office front was successfully cleaned for the first time in years;
  • Appearance visibly restored: The building’s sleek, modern look was restored by our effective, hot water cleaning system;
  • Quick turnaround: Immaculate office window cleaning was achieved in just a few hours, without the delays of traditional access methods;
  • Eco-friendly cleaning: Our pure water system was safe for the environment, eliminating the risk of chemical run-off polluting the canal;
  • Safety assured: Our drone window cleaners worked safely from the ground according to stringent safety protocols, protecting workers from falls and upholding public safety.

SkyWash Drones proved that innovation and adaptability can overcome complex challenges, delivering safe, effective, and sustainable cleaning solutions.

Contact SkyWash Drones today and let our drone cleaning services help you solve your building’s unique cleaning challenges!

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