Have you tried tracking down a window cleaner lately?
It ain't easy! Window cleaners are in high demand so if you want to
become a self-employed window cleaner now is the perfect time.
How to get started
Setting up as a window cleaner is a straightforward process. You'll
need to set yourself up with the basic tools of the trade such as transport
with a roof rack, a good quality chammy, window cleaning detergent,
a glass scraper, scraper blades, complete t-bar, cleaning pole, water
storage unit, ladder clamps, weatherproof gloves, a tool belt, a bucket
and a rubber blade window squeegee. Traditional window cleaners use
a ladder to clean windows as it's the cheapest option, so you'll need
to get yourself a good ladder if you are on a budget, but there is now
the Water-Fed-Pole system which is the safest and fastest way of cleaning
windows.
Water fed Pole System
The innovative Water fed Pole System has introduced a new, quicker and
safer way to clean windows. Its mechanics involve purified water being
pumped out of a tank, propelled through a pole and thrust out of a brush
which is fastened to the end of the pole. Once the purified water comes
into contact with dirt, dust and grime it absorbs the impurities leaving
a clean, sparkly window which, it is said, dries without smears or stains!
So, no need to climb up there with a chammy. This apparatus is operated
at ground level and is estimated to reach up to 60 feet, making it a
safer alternative to the traditional ladder. There is also the added
benefit of the reduction of accidental damage to properties. However,
even this innovative, clever machine carries some risks if not operated
correctly, such as debris falling from dislodged roofing or gutters,
mishandling of the pole causing damage to you or the general public,
passersby tripping on trailing hoses or water overspill. So if you chose
this option do make sure that you familiarise yourself with the handling
and operation of machinery. Prices vary depending on the system you
choose so do shop around, but as a guide you can buy a cold Trolley
System for around £900.00.
Requirements
You must be a keen outdoor worker and be prepared to work in all weather
conditions. In addition to these requirements you've got to be physically
fit and have the ability to work on ladders.
Show me the money
Once you become established with a steady window cleaning round you
could be earning good money. Charges are based on how large the property
is and how many windows need cleaning but an average three-bedroom house
fetches between £15.00 -£20.00 per job depending on the
location. Work could also be extended to cleaning windows for shops
and businesses.
Motivation
Being your own boss is great, you work hard and reap all the rewards.
However, you must ensure that you don't pick up any bad habits along
the way like taking days off at your leisure or clocking off early.
Remember, this is your very own business and you want to make a success
of it. You'll have to work hard and show dedication, reliability and
good workmanship. Most people don't like to alternate their window cleaners
so once you've built up a good window cleaning round you can rest assured
that you will have a good income for years to come.
Get yourself insured
As a window cleaner you may accidentally cause damage to your customers'
properties, i.e you may crack a window, a sill, damage piping, gutters
or tiles. If you do cause damage to a client's property don't shy away
from it or pretend it wasn't you. This is a sure fire way to get a bad
reputation. Instead admit liability and make sure that you have
Public
Liability Insurance to cover any accidental
damages.
Advertise your services by having some leaflets
printed
VistaPrint
offer a large range of marketing products for the freelancer including
FREE business cards - for 200 cards you only pay the postage and package
which comes to around £3.00, find
out more here.... You may also consider placing
an ad in your local newspapers, newsagents and supermarket notice boards.
Foot Canvassing
That's right! Once you've got your business cards printed get them out
there. The best way to advertise your window cleaning business is to
drop your business card into the letterboxes of the households and businesses
you wish to gain as customers. You could also leave a card at your local
newsagents, library or supermarket. Or advertise for free on websites
such as Vivastreet
or UK
Classifieds. You can find out more about foot canvasing by reading
our leaflet distribution
article.
Get yourself a free Website
You can get a free website at Moonfruit to advertise your new window
cleaning business. Make sure that you put details of your website on
your business cards.
Moonfruit
will give you:
- 20MB Storage Space
- 1GB Monthly Bandwidth
- up to 15 Pages
- Over 4000 Templates to choose from
- Free Hosting
- Advert Free
- Picture gallery and more
All for FREE. Find
out more...
Tax
As a window cleaner you will be responsible for paying your own tax
and national insurance contributions. See our article Tax
for the Self-employed.
More information
For more information on becoming a window cleaner and buying equipment
have a look at the Federation
for Window Cleaners website.
SUMMARY
Pros
Being your own boss
Low star up costs
You can earn good money
Choose your own hours
Work in fresh air
Cons
Having to work outdoors in winter
Tiring work
Solitary job
You may have to deal with difficult customers
Some customers may delay payment or refuse to pay
Dangerous occupation if using a ladder
Share this article:
