Storefront Window Cleaning

Storefront window cleaning is one business that can be started with relatively little cash. If you can scrape together $100 for some basic supplies (squeegee, scrubber, bucket, a long pole, and some cloths, you can be in business making money within hours. In fact, depending on where you live, you may not even need a vehicle.

You should be aware, however, that storefront window cleaning (for example in a downtown area) is a cut-throat business from a competition standpoint. Even though there are professional firms that do most of the work, you'll find yourself in competition with guys that are just looking for a few dollars of pocket money. For anyone that's trying to build a business, it can be tough competing against these types.

The solution to the problem is to rise above these fly by nighters and start soliciting professionally and offering professional services. This means that you should be well groomed, dressed neatly, and equipped with some sales material, such as a pricelist and business cards.

Keep in mind that in some cases you'll never be able to beat the low-ballers because some businesses don't care much about the quality as long as the price is rock-bottom. Look at it this way; you wouldn't want those customers anyway.

You should be reasonably comfortable talking to people in order to make sales. Ask to speak to the manager of each store and offer him/her an introductory price for your professional services. Ask them if you can leave your card even if they already have a window cleaner. Circumstances can change quickly and they may find a need for your services down the road.

In terms of the actual work, there is nothing wrong with scrubbing the window and doing straight pulls until you get more experience. Don't worry if all the other window cleaners are doing fancy swirls, as long as the end result is as good or better. In fact, there are many experienced window cleaners that still use the basic pull stroke.

When starting out, make it a point to explain to the manager that you expect payment at the completion of the job. Explain to them that you don't invoice because you are a simple one-man operation. This avoids non-payment of large bills at the end of the month.

Eventually, you should wind up with a full-time route. Once you get to this point, it's like money in the bank because you can depend on a certain level of income each month.

If you can get a foothold in the storefront window cleaning business, you can expand your business to include other commercial locations once you get a reliable vehicle and more equipment (not to mention a better reputation). Don't let the competition get you down, simply try to get out of the trenches and offer a more professional service.