What Traditional Window Cleaning Equipment is Need to Start Window Cleaning?
A window cleaning business may be easy to start because of its low start-up cost, but you will also need to purchase some equipment, tools, and stock to get it going. Some of the traditional window cleaning equipment that you need when starting a window cleaning business is as follows:
Squeegee
This is a very important tool in a window cleaning business. Most of the squeegees sold on the market are not complete thus you’ve to buy separate parts. But there are a handful of stores that sell a complete squeegee.
The window squeegee is made up of rubber at the top, the channel where the rubber sits in the middle and the handle at the bottom. A window squeegee is used to remove the water or cleaning fluid from a glass surface.
Glass scraper
Some dirt deposits on the window can be challenging to scrub off. The glass scraper does a great job of getting rid of such deposits and a good example is dried paint. Look for a durable glass scraper and learn the right techniques.
Glass Scraper Blades
After buying a glass scraper, you will need glass scraper blades to use. There are different types of blades on the market with the most popular ones being stainless steel and carbon steel.
Washing wand
Instead of using a sponge directly to clean the window, you can use a T-bar and a washing sleeve. This tool performs better than just using a sponge. The washing sleeve is what you will be applying your cleaning solution to the window with.
The T-bar and washing sleeves come in a variety of choices and that’s why you have to choose the right combination for your job. There are two types of T-bars which are the plastic ProGrip T-bar and the solid T-bar. For washing sleeves, you have to choose from the basic, porcupine, or microfiber sleeves.
Window cleaning pole
You should differentiate between a traditional window cleaning pole and a water fed pole. The traditional pole for cleaning windows can be attached tools like a T-bar and squeegee. In some cases, telescopic window cleaning poles can be used instead of ladders, especially if it’s a high window. But you shouldn’t replace them completely with windows as they may not be effective for thorough cleaning.
Ladder
This is very important equipment for window cleaning. So, you need to get the best ladder possible as a weak one may mean disaster as you work on the windows. We highly recommend getting a triple ladder as you can detach one section to make it lighter. Also, pick a ladder that will be easy to fold and put on your van as you move from one house or structure to another. Step and extension ladders are the best for window cleaning.
Ladder clamps
When you buy a ladder, don’t forget to buy ladder clamps as well. These are for your safety and to ensure that the ladder stays in place. Some people use ropes to tie the ladder to the roof rack, but ladder clamps are the best.
Ladder mitts
Ladders can bring some unsightly marks or small damages to the wall that they lean against. Also, some ladders may slide on the wall endangering your life. With ladder mitts, you can prevent the damage caused by ladders on the wall and they also prevent them from sliding around because they are grippy.
Steps
Most people think that steps are not a necessary tool to have. The truth is that some ground windows may be challenging to reach and steps can save you a great deal. Some people use crates to access higher ground windows but steps are the best for these kinds of windows.
Microfibre
Microfibre cloths are very durable and can be reused. These cloths can be used when wet or dry. A microfibre cloth can be dipped in a solution of soap and water and used to clean the window. After cleaning, you can use another microfibre cloth to dry the window.
Bucket
A bucket is one of the most essential equipment that you will need during window cleaning. But not all buckets can get the job done well. There is a special bucket for window cleaning where you can easily use tools such as T-bar and squeegee. Additionally, special window cleaning buckets come with a sieve that provides a space for wetting the T-bar when you’re not using it.
Water storage
It is important to carry your water as you may visit a customer and find that they are not around to give you water. A good way to carry water is to use jerry cans. You should carry enough water to clean the windows.
Washing Up Liquid
Ensure that you have a washing up liquid as it will help you to clean the window perfectly. Some of the best washing up liquid to use on your windows includes Ettore squeegee, Mr Muscle, and HG window cleaner.
Waterproof gloves
Gloves are very important as they not only protect you from exposing your skin to chemicals such as detergents, but they also protect you from bacteria that can be found on extremely dirty windows. Also, waterproof gloves help you in the cold season as it can get very cold.
Carrier bag
As you work on the windows, you will be surprised how your clothes and tools get dirty. For instance, you cannot place a wet or damp microfibre cloth in a backpack. So, you need a carrier bag for keeping wet and dump clothes.
Backpack
After putting wet clothes in the carrier bag, you can then put them in the backpack. Also, small tools like T-bar, scraper, and dry microfibre clothes can be put in the backpack. Other items include a water bottle, a pair of gloves, a wallet, and phone.
Roof rack
To transport the ladder from one customer to another, you will need to fit a rack on your car or van where you can securely carry it.
Conclusion
Since most of the startups don’t have enough money to buy all the required tools, one can acquire the most basic window cleaning traditional equipment such as squeegees, a scraper, blades, and sponges. But if you have enough funds, then you should acquire the other tools on this list as they will make your work easier and fast.