Window cleaning as a rule is generally considered a separate cleaning service. However, over the years, many cleaning firms have offered window cleaning as a separate but integral part of their business. In this chapter we will concentrate solely on washing windows in buildings of no more than two stories in height. Buildings with more than two stories will require specialized training and a large investment in high tech equipment.

To operate a window cleaning service specializing in buildings of no more than two stories it will take a very small investment. Below is a short list of the equipment you will be required to purchase.

Window Cleaning Equipment:

A. Squeegees: This is the main tool used in the window cleaning business. As in the items needed in the office cleaning business we suggest that you purchase only the best. In the case of squeegees purchase only those made of brass. You will pay a little extra but they will last for years. The only thing you will have to replace from time to time will be the removable blades.

B. Buckets: In this case there is no need to purchase an expensive bucket. A cheap plastic five gallon bucket will do fine.

C. Squeegee Holster: This device attaches to your belt and will free up your hands when the squeegees is not needed. A squeegee holster comes in handy when you are perched on a ladder and need both hands.

D. Strip Washer: This tool is a brass T-shaped device with a piece of cloth. It can be a real time saver because you can wash several windows with it at one time without re-dipping.

E. Window Scraper: If you don’t already own one, go down to your local hardware store and purchase an inexpensive paint scraper. The razor blade and aluminum holder type will be sufficient.

F. Window Cleaning Solution: Here you have two choices. You can either purchase a pre-mixed window cleaning solution at any janitorial supply store or you can mix your own by adding a capful of any non-sudsing dishwashing detergent to a bucket of warm water. There is no need to use hot water. Within a very short time the water in the bucket will be at room temperature. If the windows you are cleaning are extremely dirty feel free to add a few capfuls of an odorless ammonia to the solution.

G. On five foot step ladder.

H. One twenty foot extension ladder.

How to Clean a Window:

Although it may not appear so, cleaning windows takes a certain amount of trial and error. However, after you learn a few basic skills it will become quite easy and very profitable. The following is a few basic tips that once mastered will help you do a professional window cleaning job every time.

A. Using your strip washer dip the washer into your bucket of window cleaning solution. Again, whether you use a store bought solution or mix your own makes no difference. Cover the window with the window cleaning solution making sure the entire window is covered including the corners.

B. Using your squeegee, run the blade across the top of the window from one side to the other. Repeat this process all the way down the window. After a little practice you will soon find yourself cleaning each window pane in one continuous stroke.

From time to time you will be required to clean windows that are covered with a thin mineral deposit. No matter how hard you try, no amount of scrubbing or scarping will remove the unsightly film.

Purchase a pre-mixed acid solution from your local janitorial supply store. Then, wearing heavy gloves, apply the solution to the window pane. After a few seconds scrub the acid solution off the window pane with a non-abrasive scrub pad. Then dry the window pane with a dry lint-free towel. A dry old diaper will work wonders.

A word of caution is in order here. Be very careful in applying the acid solution. Take care not to let it drop onto any painted surfaces, carpets, walls, furniture, or any other item that will be damaged by coming into contact with the acid. Always read the product label very carefully and take all appropriate safety precautions.

Here are a few additional tips that we hope will add to your window cleaning profitability and help you avoid any unnecessary work and aggravation:

• Always use a sharp squeegee blade. Remember the blades are reversible. Once both sides are dull, dispose of it and replace it with a new blade.

• Avoid washing windows in direct sunlight. Your cleaning solution will evaporate before you have a chance to squeegee it off.

• Never climb a ladder that is on an uneven surface and never stand on the top rung or step. Also, try to avoid reaching out to far. It may cause you to lose your balance.

• Make sure you know what type of glass you are cleaning. Plexiglas and some types of coated glass will scratch easily. Do not use any type of acid solution on these kinds of windows.

• When cleaning interior windows be careful not to get any cleaning solution that contains ammonia on a waxed floor. Remember that most wax strippers are basically an ammonia solution.

If for any reason you decide not to clean your customers windows the only other option available is to subcontract the work out to a professional window cleaning firm. Make sure the firm you choose has a proven track record, is insured and is looking out for your concerns as the general contractor.