...
Welcome back to the Lean and Mean Academy, where we teach you how to turn one truck into big profits. Today, we're launching a new series: Truck Talks. This format lets me share valuable insights while on the move, giving you practical advice without the hassle of setting up studio equipment.
If you're new to the channel and interested in pressure washing or window cleaning, this post is for you. Whether you're considering starting a side hustle or transitioning to full-time work, I've got some hard-earned knowledge to share.
My Journey: From Window Cleaning to Pressure Washing
I started my entrepreneurial journey with window cleaning because it was affordable. I was broke, living in a van, and the only equipment I could afford was a squeegee from Lowe’s. Despite the humble beginnings, I managed to land commercial clients and break into the residential market, eventually building multiple six-figure businesses in both window cleaning and pressure washing.
The Pros and Cons: Window Cleaning vs. Pressure Washing
Window Cleaning:
-
Pros:
- Lower startup costs.
- Steady demand, especially in residential and commercial settings.
- High-ticket deals are possible with the right clients.
-
Cons:
- Steep learning curve for using squeegees and water-fed poles.
- High potential for callbacks due to missed spots or streaks.
- Generally lower ticket prices compared to pressure washing.
Pressure Washing:
-
Pros:
- Higher ticket prices, especially for big commercial jobs.
- Faster job completion with the right equipment.
- Opportunities in high-ticket residential and industrial cleaning.
-
Cons:
- Higher initial investment (around $10,000 for optimal equipment).
- Intense competition with low-ballers in the market.
- Requires more substantial equipment for large-scale projects.
Practical Advice for New Entrepreneurs
-
Invest Wisely: Start with essential equipment. For window cleaning, a basic squeegee and a water-fed pole will suffice. For pressure washing, consider a 4-gallon or 8-gallon per minute machine depending on your budget.
-
Focus on Marketing: No matter how good your equipment is, without customers, you won't make money. Allocate a significant portion of your budget to marketing efforts to build your client base.
-
Avoid Debt: Be cautious about financing expensive equipment upfront. Ensure you have a solid business plan and some initial clients before taking on debt.
-
Choose Your Niche: Decide whether you want to specialize in window cleaning, pressure washing, or both. Each has its unique challenges and benefits, so consider what suits your skills and market demand.
-
Learn and Adapt: Education is crucial. Invest in training courses to reduce your learning curve and avoid common mistakes.
For those serious about diving into pressure washing, I highly recommend checking out the SESW Softwash 101 class. This course offers in-depth training on soft washing techniques, equipment setup, and effective marketing strategies. It's a great way to ensure you're starting on the right foot with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed.
Final Thoughts
Both window cleaning and pressure washing can be lucrative businesses if approached correctly. Weigh the pros and cons, invest wisely, and continuously educate yourself to stay ahead of the competition. Remember, the goal is to monetize that truck in your driveway and turn it into a profit-making machine.
If you found this post helpful, please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more insights. And if you're ready to ramp up your business, don't miss our comprehensive course on scaling your business from zero to $7,000 a month.
