Setting Up a Window Cleaning Business
Theoretically, if you consider the traditional way of doing things, you could start your window-cleaning business with nothing more than a bucket and a squeegee.
However, beginning with minimal resources may restrict your future business potential.
You could begin your window-cleaning business with £100 in cash. However, it is important to start off right with proper training, marketing strategies, and a few tools.
In this connection, creating a business proposal will greatly aid in the definition of your objectives for this new endeavor.
Furthermore, it is a good exercise to think through the growth of your business, identify potential competitors, estimate the market size, and consider the startup capital for your enterprise.
It is important to establish a legal framework for your business, whether you wish to do business as a sole trader, to incorporate a limited company, or to set up a partnership.
Waterfed pole versus traditional window cleaning Business
For many years, traditional window cleaning was the standard. Now, however, waterfed poles have become quite popular.
Despite the advancement in technology, it remains crucial to train both yourself and your team in traditional window cleaning techniques. Numerous businesses continue to utilize these methods for interior window cleaning.
There are customers who may also prefer traditional cleaning methods due to their skepticism towards waterfed poles. Occasionally, waterfed poles can experience equipment breakdowns and may struggle to reach difficult windows.
Additionally, you must be capable of transporting your waterfed pole gear, and it represents a more significant financial investment.
Ultimately, while learning to use waterfed poles may require some time, many window cleaners believe that the outcomes achieved surpass those of traditional techniques. You should consider the advantages and disadvantages of each method and decide which suits your needs best.
What window cleaning tools do I require?
Buckets, sponges, squeegees, scrapers, and blades are commonly recognized as the essential tools for traditional window cleaning.
However, for residential window cleaning, you should also consider:
- A reach and wash system (including a water fed pole and filtration unit)
- A water purification system
- Vehicles for transporting your tools
Keep in mind that the items mentioned above can also prepare you for servicing commercial clients, such as storefronts and small offices. Many window cleaners serve a mixed clientele of residential customers alongside a few commercial contracts.
If your goal is to focus on larger commercial properties, you might require additional specialized equipment. This could include:
- Cranes
- Cherry pickers
- Abseiling gear (for trained and specialized personnel)
What is the earning potential for window cleaners?
Similar to any business, earnings can vary based on several aspects. These aspects include the geographical location and scale of your client base (for example, a route in Mayfair will yield different earnings than one in Streatham). Additionally, some clients may offer larger tips than others, making it challenging to provide a precise figure.
However, putting money into the correct tools today might benefit you later on. The BWCA, for instance, states that nearly all window cleaners using reach and wash systems can comfortably earn £25 each hour and at least £200 daily.
Waterfed poles allow individuals to complete more tasks, but traditional window cleaners still have excellent earning potential. Some window cleaners even mix both methods. Concentrate on your service, put in the effort, and you should manage to make money, regardless of the cleaning technique used.
