Truck Talk: Pressure Washing vs. Window Cleaning – Which Should You Choose?
What’s up, guys! Aaron here with the Lean and Mean Academy, where we talk about how to take one truck and turn it into big profits. Welcome to the first of many Truck Talks, a series where I share tips and knowledge while I’m out on the road. Today, we’re diving into a great question: Should you start a pressure washing or window cleaning business?
Whether you’re just starting out or thinking about scaling up a side hustle, this comparison will give you insight into both industries. I’ve built multiple six-figure businesses in both window cleaning and pressure washing, so let’s break it down.
My Window Cleaning Journey: Humble Beginnings
I started out in window cleaning because it was cheap. I didn’t have a lot of cash at the time—heck, I was even living out of my van for a while. I went to Lowe’s, grabbed a basic squeegee, and started knocking on doors. Eventually, I landed some high-ticket clients, and the rest was history.
Pros of Window Cleaning:
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Low Startup Cost: You can start with basic tools like a squeegee and water-fed pole.
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Always in Demand: People will always need clean windows, both in residential and commercial settings.
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Specialization Opportunities: You can niche down into commercial, residential, or even high-rise window cleaning.
Cons of Window Cleaning:
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Steep Learning Curve: Operating a squeegee or a water-fed pole at heights takes time to master.
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Callbacks: Customers often request track cleaning or claim “you missed a spot.” This leads to more tedious and repetitive work.
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Lower Ticket Prices: Window cleaning jobs, in general, tend to be lower in price compared to pressure washing jobs.
Why I Pivoted to Pressure Washing
Once I was able to afford more equipment, I shifted my focus to pressure washing. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer. Now I run two 8-gallon-per-minute rigs and specialize in high-ticket residential and commercial jobs.
Pros of Pressure Washing:
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Higher Ticket Jobs: Pressure washing, especially with the right equipment, commands higher prices than window cleaning.
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Industrial Applications: Pressure washing is sometimes required by law for things like parking garages and dumpsters due to EPA regulations.
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Scalability: With the right setup, you can handle large-scale jobs like apartment complexes or commercial properties.
Cons of Pressure Washing:
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Higher Initial Investment: To move fast and handle bigger jobs, you’ll need at least $10,000 worth of equipment.
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Industry Saturation: You’ll be up against low-ticket competitors, but if you know how to market, you can easily rise above the rest.
Which One is Right for You?
If you’re just starting out and don’t have a lot of capital, window cleaning might be a great option to get your feet wet. But be prepared for the tedious nature of the work and lower tickets. Pressure washing, on the other hand, requires a higher upfront investment, but the rewards can be much greater with larger, high-ticket jobs.
Why Not Both?
Here’s the kicker—you don’t have to choose. Many businesses offer both window cleaning and pressure washing services. This can allow you to serve a broader range of clients and make your business more versatile. Just be aware that window cleaning comes with more callbacks and nitpicky clients.
Want to Level Up? Check Out SESW Softwash 101
If you’re serious about pressure washing and want to expand into soft washing—a service that complements both pressure washing and window cleaning—then I highly recommend SESW Softwash 101. This class is a perfect start for anyone looking to master the art of soft washing and add even more value to their business. From proper chemical ratios to technique, SESW Softwash 101 covers all the essentials. Click here to check out the course and take your exterior cleaning business to the next level!
Ready to Start Your Exterior Cleaning Business?
If you’re serious about starting your own exterior cleaning business, whether it’s pressure washing, window cleaning, or both, check out the Lean and Mean Academy Course. For just $299, you'll learn everything you need to know about getting your business off the ground, from chemicals to marketing strategies.
Join today, and you’ll get lifetime access to the course—no upgrades needed, ever. Click the link below and let’s get started!
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