Phoenix Drone Pros

Blog

Robert Biggs • August 20, 2025

If you manage a building in Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, or Scottsdale, there’s a better way to keep your exterior glass spotless.

lucid sherpa drone cleaning a 5 story glass building in phoenix Arizona

If you manage a building in Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, or Scottsdale, there’s a better way to keep your exterior glass spotless. Drone window washing combines pure-water cleaning with precision flight to deliver high-quality results in a fraction of the time—without lifts, ropes, or risky roof work. As a full-service aerial provider, Phoenix Drone Pros brings FAA-certified pilots, commercial insurance, and professional-grade cleaning rigs to every project so your property looks pristine with minimal disruption.

Below is your complete, plain-English guide from our marketing team: what drone window washing is, the benefits for Arizona properties, how we work, pricing factors, safety and compliance, and the answers facility managers ask most.


What Is Drone Window Washing?

Drone window washing uses an industrial cleaning drone equipped with a stabilized spray head and pure (deionized) water system to clean exterior glass, metal panels, cladding, and architectural features. The aircraft hovers off the façade and applies low-pressure, purified water that loosens dust and grime and dries spot-free (no squeegee needed). For tall glass, atriums, skylights, canopies, and signage, the drone reaches quickly—often in places boom lifts or ropes are slow, expensive, or unsafe.

In short: It’s the next generation of exterior cleaning built for the Southwest’s dusty climate and modern building design.


Why It Matters in Arizona

Phoenix is beautiful—and dusty. Add monsoon season residue, hard water spotting from overspray, bird activity, and heavy traffic corridors, and commercial glass can look tired fast. Clean windows:

  • Improve tenant satisfaction and first impressions
  • Protect the brand image for retail and hospitality
  • Keep daylighting efficient for energy savings
  • Extend glass and gasket life by removing abrasive dust
  • Reduce complaints about visibility and “dirty building” optics

Traditional methods do the job, but they come with costly equipment, permits, lane closures, and safety exposures. That’s where drones shine.


The 16 Big Benefits of Drone Window Washing

1) Safety First (No Lifts, No Ropes)

Arizona roofs, parapets, and glass angles can be unforgiving. Drones keep technicians on the ground and outside of fall-hazard zones. Fewer people at height means lower risk and liability for the building owner and the contractor.

2) Speed & Low Disruption

Setups that once took half a day (boom lift delivery, barricades, permits) can often start in minutes. Crews complete large façades fast—often outside of peak hours—so tenants, guests, and shoppers aren’t inconvenienced.

3) Access to Hard-to-Reach Areas

Atriums, canopies, clerestories, fifth-story eyebrows, skylights over courtyards, glass over landscaping or water features…drones go where poles and lifts struggle, often without needing to move planters, furniture, or signage.

4) Superior Aesthetics on Modern Glass

Pure-water rinsing leaves a spot-free, streak-free finish. Because the drone’s spray is contactless, there’s no chance of scratching from contaminated scrub pads or gritty squeegee rubbers.

5) Lower Total Cost of Service

While each building is unique, many projects see cost savings by avoiding lift rentals, lane closures, staging, permits, and long labor hours. You pay for clean glass—not for moving heavy equipment around the site.

6) Minimal Site Impact

No lift tracks on landscaping. No blocked ADA routes. No extended sidewalk closures. No roof anchors required for many jobs. Drone ops typically use small, clearly marked ground safety zones.

7) Consistent Quality, Panel to Panel

Computer-assisted flight helps maintain even standoff distance and steady passes, producing a uniform finish across large surfaces.

8) Before/After Documentation

Every Phoenix Drone Pros job includes high-resolution imagery and optional video clips. You’ll have a clear record for stakeholders that the work was performed and the results delivered.

9) Scalable for Multi-Building Portfolios

Standardized gear and repeatable process make it easy to roll out service across office parks, campuses, retail portfolios, and HOAs throughout the Phoenix metro.

10) Eco-Friendly Method

We clean with pure, deionized water—no detergents—so it’s kinder to landscaping, pets, and stormwater systems. It’s the preferred method for modern window coatings and many manufacturers.

11) Great for Windows, But Also…

Drones excel on metal panels, EIFS, signage, solar awnings, PV glass, skylights, and light dust on exterior stone. Ask about seasonal façade rinses after dust storms.

12) Flexible Scheduling

Early morning before opening? Overnight? Weekend work? Drones can be scheduled for times that keep your site fully operational.

13) Reduced Wear on Building Assets

No lift bumping into drip edges. No ropes over parapet caps. Fewer anchor loads. Less chance of incidental damage.

14) Complimentary Inspections

While we clean, our cameras can note defects: failed seals, cracked panes, loose trim, or bird nesting. You’ll get a simple punch list to keep maintenance ahead of issues.

15) Ideal for the Desert

Our region’s fine dust behaves like sandpaper on glass. Routine pure-water rinses reduce micro-abrasion and keep glass looking newer, longer.

16) Tenant & Guest Experience

A quiet, quick, modern cleaning method gets noticed—for the right reasons. The drone is a conversation piece, and your building looks fantastic.


Where Drone Window Washing Fits Best

  • Office towers & corporate campuses across Phoenix, Tempe, and Chandler
  • Retail centers, lifestyle centers, and storefronts with complex facades
  • Hotels & resorts (Scottsdale), especially over pools, courtyards, and villas
  • Healthcare & education where disruption must be minimized
  • Industrial & logistics skylights and clerestory glass over active yards
  • Municipal buildings, cultural venues & places of worship with architectural glass
  • Auto dealerships & restaurants with high-visibility glass walls
  • Multi-family communities & HOAs (clubhouse, lobby, and amenity windows)

How Phoenix Drone Pros Delivers (Step-by-Step)

  1. Site Walk & Plan – We map the façade, note landscaping, foot traffic, and access points, and confirm water source location.
  2. Safety Zone Setup – Cones and signage cordon a small area beneath the work zone. A visual observer manages pedestrians.
  3. Pure-Water System – We connect our DI filtration to a water source and run a lightweight hose to the drone staging area.
  4. Flight & Cleaning – FAA-certified pilots fly steady passes. The stabilized spray head and GPS lock help maintain even coverage.
  5. Quality Check – We spot-check panels and repeat passes in stubborn areas (e.g., bird strikes).
  6. Final Rinse – A finishing rinse ensures spot-free drying.
  7. Documentation – You receive before/after photos or video and a short completion note with any observations.
  8. Follow-Up Plan – Based on your dust exposure and brand standards, we’ll suggest a cleaning cadence (often quarterly in the Valley).


Safety, Compliance & Insurance

  • FAA Part 107 pilots on every job
  • LAANC authorizations if required for controlled airspace near airports or helipads
  • Visual observers (VOs) maintain line-of-sight and pedestrian awareness
  • No flights directly over uninvolved people; ground zones are marked and managed
  • Commercial general liability & hull coverage available on request
  • Weather protocols for wind and monsoon conditions
  • Data privacy: We capture only what’s necessary for cleaning and documentation

If your property has special requirements (campus security, overnight operations, film restrictions), we’ll adapt our plan and provide certificates of insurance naming the property as additionally insured where needed.


Water, Chemistry & Glass Care

We clean with deionized (DI) water produced on-site. DI water lifts dirt and dries clear because it lacks the minerals that cause white spotting. Benefits:

  • No detergents needed for routine dust and pollen
  • Protects coatings and gaskets on modern glazing systems
  • Landscaping friendly (when managed properly)
  • Excellent for Arizona’s hard water environment, which is notorious for spotting

For heavy contamination (construction debris, paint overspray, hard-water scale), we’ll discuss alternatives such as specialty restoration performed safely from the ground or with limited access tools.


Pricing & ROI: What Affects Your Cost

Every building is different, but these factors drive the estimate:

  • Height & total glass area (square footage)
  • Soiling level (desert dust vs. heavy bird or construction residue)
  • Obstructions (awnings, trees, canopies, signage)
  • Access & staging (water source, safe ground zones)
  • Frequency (one-time vs. quarterly or monthly programs)
  • Documentation (basic photos vs. narrated video recap)

Why many properties save with drones: no lift rental/delivery, fewer permits, reduced setup labor, and faster production. For multi-site portfolios, recurring schedules unlock the best value.


Maintenance Cadence for the Phoenix Metro

  • Retail & hospitality on arterials: every 30–60 days
  • Office/campus environments: quarterly
  • Industrial/logistics with yard dust: every 60–90 days
  • Resorts near golf/desert trails: monthly–quarterly, depending on standards

We’ll tailor the frequency to your brand, occupancy, and environment to balance cost and curb appeal.


Frequently Asked Questions (Facility Manager Edition)

Q1: Will drones scratch the glass?
No. Our method is
contactless; we don’t rub pads across the surface. We use low-pressure, DI water to rinse away dust and grit that could otherwise cause abrasion.

Q2: What about pedestrians and tenants?
We create a
controlled safety zone below the area being cleaned and schedule work during low-traffic periods when possible. Drones do not fly over uninvolved people.

Q3: Is it okay for coated or tinted glass?
Yes.
Pure-water is widely recommended for modern glazing systems because it leaves no residues. For special coatings, we can clean a small test area first.

Q4: How high can you clean?
We commonly service mid-rise façades and architectural features. For ultra-tall façades, we may combine
drones + ground poles or plan phased work. Tell us your height, and we’ll propose the safest approach.

Q5: Will there be water spotting?
DI water is designed to
dry spot-free. We monitor wind and sun angles and finish with a clean rinse to ensure clarity.

Q6: Are drones legal downtown or near airports?
Yes—with proper
Part 107 compliance and LAANC authorization where required. We handle all permissions.

Q7: Can you clean at night or early morning?
Absolutely.
Off-hours cleaning minimizes impact on tenants and guests and can improve results during summer heat.

Q8: What about overspray on pedestrians or vehicles?
We stage carefully and apply
light, controlled passes. Where cars or entrances must remain open, we can use short rolling closures managed by our crew.

Q9: Do you clean other materials besides glass?
Yes. Drones do well on
metal panels, EIFS, signage, solar awnings, and skylights. For stone or porous surfaces, ask us about low-pressure façade rinsing.

Q10: What if we have sensitive areas (healthcare/finance)?
We follow your
security protocols, limit recording to proof-of-work documentation, and can provide a data retention policy on request.


A Note on High-Rise Rope Work vs. Drones

We respect professional rope access teams—they’re essential for certain scopes. Drones are ideal when:

  • The façade has no safe anchorage or complex geometry
  • You want to avoid roof loading and rigging time
  • You need a fast rinse after a dust event
  • There are obstacles (awnings, trees, water features) that make lifts or ropes impractical
  • You want to minimize disruption to entrances and storefronts

Often, the best plan is a hybrid: drone rinses for routine dust control and targeted rope work for deep restoration or interior access.


Sample Project Plans (Phoenix Area)

  • Scottsdale resort: Early-morning drone cleaning of guest-facing glass, finished before pool opens; weekly touch-ups during peak season.
  • Downtown Tempe office: Quarterly drone rinse on all street-level canopies and fifth-story eyebrows; annual restorative polish on a few hard-water stains.
  • Chandler retail center: Monthly drone passes on storefront glass and signage; off-hours schedule to avoid daytime shoppers.
  • Mesa industrial campus: Drone cleaning of clerestory windows and skylights over active yard—no lift rental, no production downtime.


Your Deliverables from Phoenix Drone Pros

  • Clear scope & quote with square footage and schedule
  • COI and documentation (as requested)
  • Professional crew: FAA-certified pilots + visual observers
  • Pure-water finish (spot-free)
  • Maintenance calendar tailored to your property


How to Prepare Your Site (Manager’s Checklist)

  1. Share a site map and any restricted zones.
  2. Confirm water access (spigot location).
  3. Identify preferred work hours and dates to avoid.
  4. Note any sensitive areas (VIP entrances, patient drop-off, public art).
  5. Provide a point of contact for the day of service.
  6. If required, forward vendor rules & insurance certificates in advance.

We’ll handle the rest: safety zone, traffic cones, authorizations, and flight operations.


Why Phoenix Drone Pros

  • Experience: 10+ years operating drones professionally in the Valley
  • Compliance: FAA Part 107, insured, and operations built around safety
  • Quality: Pure-water systems, stabilized spray, meticulous passes
  • Proof: Photos/video delivered with every job
  • Coverage: Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, Scottsdale, Queen Creek, and nearby communities]


Get a Quote

Ready to modernize your window care? Tell us your address, glass height, and approximate square footage (or send a few photos). We’ll turn around a clear proposal and schedule that fits your operations.

Phoenix Drone Pros — Drone Window Washing for Modern Arizona Properties.
Fast. Safe. Spot-Free.


Final Word

Drone window washing is more than a clever new tool—it’s a better fit for the way Phoenix buildings are designed and used. You get safer operations, faster turnaround, lower disruption, and a spot-free finish that keeps your brand looking sharp.

When you’re ready, Phoenix Drone Pros will build the right plan for your property and deliver the clean, clear glass your tenants and customers expect—without the headaches of lifts and ropes.

By Robert Biggs August 20, 2025
At Phoenix Drone Pros, our drone solar panel cleaning services offer a safer, faster, and more effective solution than traditional methods—with big benefits for homeowners and businesses alike.
By Robert Biggs July 14, 2025
While traditional methods of cleaning solar panels often involve risky climbs and costly labor, drone technology has revolutionized solar maintenance.
By Robert Biggs July 1, 2025
The power washing industry is experiencing a major transformation—and it’s happening from above. Thanks to the introduction of drone-based power washing
By Robert Biggs June 5, 2025
At Phoenix Drone Pros, we’re leading the charge with a powerful new solution: drone power washing .
By Robert Biggs May 30, 2025
Traditional cleaning methods often fall short, especially for high-rise buildings and hard-to-reach areas. Enter drone power washing—a cutting-edge solution that's transforming the way we approach exterior cleaning in Phoenix.
Twilight pool drone photo
By Robert Biggs April 27, 2025
In this article, I’ll share with you the top 7 ways drone photography can help you sell your home faster here in Phoenix.
By Robert Biggs March 17, 2025
Colleen, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin? The journey of Phoenix Drone Pros began when Robert Biggs, a tech enthusiast and avid photographer, first laid eyes on drone technology. Fascinated by the potential of capturing breathtaking imagery from the skies, Robert delved deep into the world of drones, honing his skills and mastering the art of aerial photography and videography. In 2015, with a keen eye for innovation and a drive to share his passion with the world, Robert officially established Phoenix Drone Pros. The name “Phoenix” symbolizes rebirth and renewal and reflects the soaring capabilities of the drones that would soon take flight under his expert guidance. From the outset, Robert set out to create a company that would stand apart from the competition by offering unmatched expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and personalized service. He envisioned Phoenix Drone Pros as a one-stop solution for businesses seeking exceptional aerial imagery, whether for real estate, construction, search and rescue, cinematography, or any other industry that could benefit from a new perspective. Fast-forward to today, Phoenix Drone Pros is expanding in its 10th year of business in Franchising. Colleen Biggs, Robert’s devoted wife, brings her heart and expertise to this journey. With over 18 years in the Franchise Industry, she has been a steadfast advocate for franchisees, guiding them through every step of launching their businesses. From territory analysis and staffing to marketing, lease negotiations, training, and leadership development, Colleen has been there, helping others realize their dreams. Her experiences during challenging times in 2001 and 2008 have equipped her with the skills to build resilient, recession-proof businesses. Colleen’s passion has always been rooted in supporting franchisees and ensuring their success. Through her journey, she learned valuable lessons about what works and what doesn’t, always prioritizing transparency and honesty. At Phoenix Drone Pros, we embody these values, nurturing a community where our franchisees feel supported, valued, and empowered to thrive. Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way? Like any business, our journey has been shaped by both successes and setbacks—each one a valuable learning experience. When we first started, drones were a relatively new and misunderstood technology. Back then, it wasn’t uncommon to face unexpected challenges, like having a drone shot out of the sky while filming a property or dealing with upset neighbors convinced we were invading their privacy. Those early days taught us the importance of educating our clients and the public about how drones are used and the value they bring. Over time, as awareness and acceptance of drone technology grew, so did our business. We started by working with residential real estate agents, capturing stunning aerial views that helped homes sell faster. But as we refined our skills and invested in cutting-edge equipment, new opportunities emerged. Today, we’re proud to work on much larger-scale projects, partnering with solar farms, construction companies, and commercial real estate firms to deliver professional-grade aerial data and visuals. Each of these “bumps in the road” taught us resilience, adaptability, and the importance of clear communication. By overcoming early misconceptions, we’ve built a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and delivering exceptional results. These challenges didn’t just shape our business—they strengthened it, allowing us to soar to new heights. Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others? Phoenix Drone Pros: Elevating Your Vision from the Sky At Phoenix Drone Pros, we specialize in delivering high-quality drone services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. With a team of experienced and FAA-licensed pilots, cutting-edge technology, and a passion for innovation, we provide stunning aerial footage, comprehensive inspections, and a variety of other drone solutions. What We Do Our services span a wide range of industries, from commercial real estate and raw land development to solar inspections, weddings, and even search and rescue missions. Whether you’re a homeowner needing a roof inspection or a business owner seeking captivating aerial content, we bring expertise, precision, and creativity to every project. What Sets Us Apart What makes Phoenix Drone Pros stand out is our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Our advanced drone technology allows us to capture areas that are often hard to reach, delivering detailed and accurate visuals that empower our clients to make informed decisions. We pride ourselves on offering:
What Are the Risks of Having an In-House Drone Pilot Flying Your Construction Sites?
By Robert Biggs January 2, 2025
What Are the Risks of Having an In-House Drone Pilot Flying Your Construction Sites?
Drone Solar Farm inspections
By Robert Biggs August 23, 2024
Drone Solar Farm Inspections with a Thermal Camera
Drone thermal cameras for search and rescue
By Robert Biggs August 23, 2024
Drone Thermal Cameras for Search and Rescue: A Game-Changer in Saving Lives