Clean windows let in more natural light, boosting productivity and creating a happier workplace. They also prevent corrosive contaminants from forming on window glass and can extend their lifespan. Look for a service provider like Window Cleaning Sarasota who owns their equipment, as this will allow them to take better care of it and keep it running smoothly. They should also offer a competitive price.
Commercial Cost
Clean windows can make a big difference in your business’s image and customer perception. They allow natural light to shine and create a more pleasant working environment for your employees. However, maintaining clean windows is a significant expense for any business, so it’s important to understand what goes into the cost of commercial window cleaning services.
Pricing for professional window cleaning can vary, and many companies choose to charge by the pane or by the hour. The per-pane model is the most straightforward, as it simply requires the cleaner to count the number of windows and charge accordingly. It’s also common for cleaning companies to offer supplementary services, such as cleaning window frames and tracks or removing stubborn mineral deposits. These extras may add to the overall cost of a cleaning, but can also increase the value and quality of the service provided.
Another factor to consider when calculating commercial window cleaning costs is the frequency of service. Businesses that have high traffic, such as restaurants or car dealerships, tend to require regular cleaning to remove stains and fingerprints from the glass. Other factors that can influence the cleaning frequency of a business include the type of business, the industry, and how much sunlight enters the building each day.
The accessibility of the windows is another major factor that affects the cost of window cleaning. Windows that are difficult to reach, such as those on the second floor or higher, can end up costing more than a standard window due to the added labor and equipment needed to wash them. These types of windows also often require more frequent cleaning due to a buildup of dirt that can damage the glass and restrict light.
When it comes to determining commercial window cleaning costs, it’s best to go with an established and reputable company that owns their own equipment. This ensures that the provider has full control over their schedule and can oversee safety checks on each piece of equipment. It also allows the provider to keep their prices competitive since they don’t need to pay for additional equipment rental fees.
Hourly Rate
When determining your window cleaning prices, you’ll want to consider the type of windows and the size of the home or business. For example, a single-pane window will likely cost less to clean than double-hung windows with two sashes. Additionally, windows with extra details such as mullions or a grid pattern may require more time to clean.
Some companies price per window, while others prefer to charge by the hour. For instance, a window washing company that cleans commercial buildings and high-rises will usually charge by the hour instead of by the number of windows cleaned. This is because the work can be more labor-intensive and requires specialized equipment such as ladders.
Many professional window cleaners also offer services like sill and track cleaning, which can add to the total cost of the job. These items can be difficult to clean, but they’re important to keep clean to prevent bugs from nesting in them and to ensure the windows open and close properly. Additionally, they’re a common place for mold and dirt to collect, and regularly cleaning them can reduce the risk of them becoming blocked.
It’s also worth considering the frequency with which your clients will require their windows to be cleaned. For instance, if they live in an area prone to mineral deposits, their windows may need more frequent attention than those of a suburban homeowner. Finally, it’s a good idea to take into account seasonal considerations. It’s easier to wash windows in the spring and summer than it is during the fall and winter, when leaves and ice can block the view and cause damage.
Once you’ve figured out your pricing, it’s a good idea to present your bid or quote to your client and get their approval. Be sure to include all of your costs, including any ancillary services that you plan on offering. This will help you avoid any surprises down the line and ensure that your clients understand the value of your service. Lastly, it’s a good idea to compare your pricing to other window cleaners in your area. If you find that you’re charging too much, consider lowering your price or bundling in additional services to attract more customers.
Equipment
A professional window cleaner will have a complete assortment of tools and equipment for different types of windows. A standard kit includes buckets, sponges, squeegees, and scrapers. They also have ladders and extension poles to reach hard-to-reach windows. They will use heavy-duty industrial detergents that work well even in tough situations. In addition, they will have a water-fed pole system to help them clean high windows without using ladders or climbing.
A standard window cleaning kit includes a bucket, sponges, squeegees, hand soap, and a few lint-free rags or towels. They may also use a scrub brush for more difficult tasks or large glass surfaces. The bucket should be rectangular in shape to fit the widest squeegee sleeve. A few inexpensive buckets from the hardware store are perfect for this purpose, although professionals will likely invest in a durable bucket like the Ettore Super Bucket.
The squeegee is the most important piece of window cleaning equipment. It removes all the excess water for a streak-free finish. Its flexible blade is placed in an upper corner and pulled straight down the surface of the window. Most professionals start with horizontal strokes, but they might mix them with vertical and angled movements. A squeegee should be wiped off regularly to keep it from scratching the glass.
Some professionals will use a T-bar or applicator to apply the cleaning solution to the windows. These are available with a variety of sleeves, from 6 inches (for french windows) to 24 inches. The sleeves are removable and can be changed out as needed. Many pros will have a few different types of sleeves on hand, including microfiber and bronze wool, for different jobs.
When the cleaning is done, the window cleaner will rinse the windows with purified water and squeegee them dry for a sparkling shine. They may also vacuum the windows with a vacuum hose to remove dust, debris, and pet hair. If the windows are extremely dirty, a professional might also use a pressure washer to remove stubborn dirt and grime. This is a faster and more effective way to clean windows than manual scrubbing.
Insurance
If you are a window cleaner you need insurance coverage to protect your business from accidents and liability. This is especially true if you work in a commercial setting. Some clients will require you to provide proof of insurance before they hire your company. In addition, some municipalities and cities will require you to have a license to operate as a window washer. The most common type of insurance for window cleaning companies is general liability. This insurance will cover third-party property damage and bodily injury. In addition, it will also pay for legal fees and judgements awarded in case of a lawsuit.
Other types of insurance for window cleaners include professional liability, commercial auto, and contractors pollution liability. These policies are designed to protect your business from risks specific to the industry. For example, contractors pollution liability will pay for cleanup costs and environmental damages resulting from the use of chemicals during window cleaning. Moreover, commercial auto insurance covers medical bills and vehicle repairs if an employee gets injured in a car accident while traveling between job sites. This type of insurance is often included in a business owners policy (BOP), which saves you money by combining general and commercial property insurance into one package.
Another important form of insurance for window cleaners is worker’s compensation. This coverage will pay for the cost of medical bills and lost wages if an employee is injured while performing work for your company. It is crucial for businesses to have this type of insurance because it can help them avoid expensive litigation.
Lastly, you should consider getting business equipment and tools insurance. This type of insurance will reimburse your company for the cost of replacement or repair of your business equipment and tools. This is particularly important because window cleaners use expensive equipment like hydrocarts, pumps, pressurizers, scrubbers, and gloves. Business equipment and tools coverage will protect your investments in these tools from theft, fire, extreme weather, and other covered perils.
In addition to standard business insurance, you should consider obtaining disability insurance for yourself and your employees. This will help you pay for living expenses if an employee becomes disabled while working on a project. Many people assume that Social Security Disability Insurance will cover their expenses if they become disabled, but this is not the case. The average SSDI benefits are less than $350 a week, which is not enough to live on.