What's included
- Plank and tongue-and-groove faces
- Slats, baffles and the gaps between them
- Wood beams that are part of the ceiling
Not included
- Refinishing, staining or sealing
- Repair of loose boards
Why it matters
Slat and baffle ceilings collect dust in every gap and show it in angled light.
Restaurants with wood ceilings accumulate cooking film that dulls the wood.
How AELC providers clean wood and plank ceilings
Every AELC Network Provider follows the AELC Source-Control Method: do not move the contamination; capture it or contain it. For wood and plank ceilings, that means:
- Identify. Identify the finish (oiled, lacquered, raw) and test in a hidden spot.
- Capture. Vacuum faces and gaps with a soft HEPA brush tool.
- Clean. Wipe with a barely damp microfiber and a wood-safe cleaner suited to the finish.
- Verify. Dry-buff and photograph.
Typical reach class: Standard Reach. About AELC reach classes.
How often should wood and plank ceilings be cleaned?
| Setting | Recommended frequency |
|---|---|
| Restaurants | Every 6 months |
| Lobbies and churches | Every 12 months |
Grease, lint, humidity and how visible the area is can shorten these intervals. See how often high dusting should be done.
How much does wood and plank ceiling cleaning cost?
Typical range: $0.25–$0.75 per square foot (per ceiling sq ft). Slat and baffle systems with many gaps sit at the high end.
Prices are set by each independent provider. Ranges reflect published market data and AELC time standards. See the full above-eye-level cleaning cost guide.
DIY vs. hiring a pro
- Avoid oil soaps on lacquered ceilings; they can leave residue.
Safety and when to stop
- Do not saturate raw wood.
See the full list of red-light conditions and what AELC does not do.
Industries that need it
Wood and Plank Ceiling Cleaning: frequently asked questions
Can grease be removed from a wood ceiling?
Light to moderate cooking film can usually be removed with finish-safe cleaners. Badly degraded finishes may need refinishing by a wood specialist.
Last updated October 4, 2026. Reviewed by the AELC Method team. Above Eye Level Cleaning is a national network of independently owned cleaning companies; local providers set their own prices and perform the work.