Starting a Window Cleaning Business
By Suze Arthur
If you want to start a small business where there's plenty of room for growth, the window cleaning business may be perfect for you. Of course it also helps if you are as sure-footed as a mountain goat, and like to breathe fresh air while you work. Next time someone asks, "do you do windows," say yes! The window cleaning business promises bucket-loads of money for those who are willing to do what others are not.
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Startup Costs and Investment
Window cleaning professionals must invest in the right tools and equipment. The costs of running a window cleaning business are quite economical, especially if you begin with residential customers. You will need to invest in a few janitorial tools, such as a ladder, buckets, a squeegee, soap and chamois. However, one of the most appealing aspects about having your own window cleaning business is the low startup cost. All of the above can be purchased for approximately $100 to $150. You may already have some of these tools in your basement or garage. Aiming for a bigger income? Commercial buildings and retail spaces hire reliable window cleaning services, although if you're going to climb higher than a one-story, low-rise building, you may need to invest in additional window cleaning equipment, such as an extension ladder and safety ropes. Safety is a big concern in the window cleaning business, and it's best to consult OSHA (Occupational Safety and Hazard Association) when checking your equipment.
Income & Growth Potential
Good news. Window cleaning professionals can make a dependable living, even in an economic downturn. Not only residential customers, but additionally, real estate pros must maintain the cleanliness and appeal of their property. Windows are the "eyes" of a house, one of the first features to catch the attention of a prospective buyer or investor. Interestingly, the amount of window glass used in constructing commercial buildings increased after glass-manufacturing costs dropped in the 1970s. So, the number of commercial clients needing reputable window cleaners has risen over the last four decades. Stains caused by factors such as atmospheric pollutants, "acid rain" and poor design choices that channel run-off directly onto windows have greatly increased the need for reliable window cleaning services.
Marketing
Marketing your window cleaning service simply means communicating with people, letting them know who you are, and explaining how you can help them maintain their property. Distinctive marketing tools, such as a high-quality website and a professional business card (with your website URL printed on it), signals potential customers that your window cleaning business not only offers the best service around, it also has a unique flair. However, you don't need to be funny or philosophical in your advertising. Simply be direct and let people know that if they choose your service, they'll get what they want: clean windows by a reputable service for a reasonable fee. More and more people turn to the internet when they're in the market for a local service such as window cleaning. As with marketing a carpet cleaning or housecleaning service, it's a good idea to list your window cleaning business online in Google Maps. That way, people in your area can find you quickly when they do a local search. Provide a service that everyone requires, but few are willing to do. Start your own window cleaning business, get fresh air and exercise, and best of all, leave your customers seeing everything more clearly.
Suze Arthur is the author of Start Your Own Window Cleaning Business. To learn how to Start Your Own Carpet Cleaning Business, Start Your Own Housecleaning Business, and Start Your Own Office Cleaning Business, see the Suze & Ev Cleaning Business Methods
