If you’ve ever considered starting your own business in exterior cleaning, two options often come to mind: pressure washing and window cleaning. Both offer the potential for great income, but which one is the right choice for you? In this blog post, we’ll break down the key differences, benefits, and challenges of each service to help you decide.
Why Consider These Businesses?
Pressure washing and window cleaning are attractive options because they:
- Require relatively low startup costs.
- Offer flexible schedules.
- Have high-profit potential with the right strategy.
However, they differ significantly in terms of equipment, expertise, and customer expectations.
Window Cleaning: The Pros and Cons
The Pros:
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Low Startup Costs: You can begin with basic tools like a squeegee and cleaning solution.
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Steady Demand: Windows always need cleaning, from residential homes to commercial buildings.
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Accessible for Beginners: Ideal if you’re starting with minimal capital.
The Cons:
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Tedious Work: Cleaning window tracks, screens, and high windows can be time-consuming and detailed.
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Learning Curve: Mastering techniques like using a water-fed pole takes time.
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Lower Ticket Prices: Window cleaning often commands lower rates than pressure washing, making it harder to scale without volume.
Pressure Washing: The Pros and Cons
The Pros:
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Higher Ticket Potential: Services like roof cleaning, parking garage washing, and large residential jobs can generate significant income.
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Scalability: Investing in high-performance equipment allows you to tackle bigger and more lucrative jobs.
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Regulated Demand: Certain services, such as cleaning parking lots or dumpster pads, are required by EPA regulations.
The Cons:
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Higher Startup Costs: You’ll need to invest in equipment like pressure washers, surface cleaners, and rigs, which can run $10,000 or more for professional setups.
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Competition: The industry has many "low-cost" competitors, but you can set yourself apart with marketing and quality service.
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Physical Labor: Handling large jobs can be demanding without the right tools and processes.
Which Business Should You Choose?
Window Cleaning:
This is a great option if you’re starting with limited funds and prefer detailed, hands-on work. It’s also a good add-on service for those already in the cleaning industry.
Pressure Washing:
Go for pressure washing if you want to focus on higher-ticket jobs and have the capital to invest in equipment. It’s ideal for those looking to specialize in industrial and high-ticket residential services.
Looking to master the fundamentals of softwashing? Be sure to check out the SESW Softwash 101 class for a comprehensive guide on softwashing techniques, equipment, and best practices. This class is an excellent resource for anyone looking to elevate their expertise and grow their business.
Why Not Both?
Offering both services can open up additional revenue streams. However, be mindful of the challenges:
- Learning multiple skill sets can be time-consuming.
- Managing the expectations of different customer bases requires strategic pricing and marketing.
Start Strong with Expert Guidance
Starting any business can be daunting, but having the right knowledge and tools makes all the difference. At Lean and Mean Academy, we’ve launched a course to help you grow your exterior cleaning business from the ground up. Here’s what’s included:
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Marketing Mastery: Proven Facebook ad strategies to generate leads.
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Chemical Knowledge: Learn which products to use for different surfaces.
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Long-Term Planning: Build a foundation for sustained growth and recurring revenue.
For just $299, this course is packed with actionable insights to fast-track your success. Once you’re in, you’re locked in at that price—forever.
Final Thoughts
Pressure washing and window cleaning both offer incredible opportunities for growth and profitability. Your choice depends on your resources, goals, and the type of work you enjoy. Want to learn more? Subscribe to the Lean and Mean Academy on YouTube and stay tuned for our new “Truck Talks” series—real talk, straight from the cab!
Ready to take the next step? Check out the SESW Softwash 101 class for softwashing fundamentals and click the link below to join our course to start building your dream business today.
