SEATTLE -- The Space Needle is getting its first deep external cleaning since the landmark opened in 1962.

Video showed workers rappelling on ropes while pressure-washing the monument.

Kärcher, a German-based cleaning technology company that's cleaned other world monuments, is in charge of the operation.

Crews said the huge job is unusually challenging because of the building's shape and because only hot water is being used in the cleaning in an effort to go "green."