Window washing is the process of cleaning glass surfaces with a wide variety of tools and techniques. In addition to traditional techniques, automated cleaning methods are now common. This article will discuss the equipment and techniques used, as well as the chemicals used. You’ll also learn what to watch for and how to stay safe while window washing.
Techniques
When window washing, it is important to wet windows before squeegeeing them. You can do this with a spray bottle or water-fed pole system. Then, use a squeegee to scrub the window using long, overlapping strokes. After each stroke, wipe the squeegee blade with a clean rag. You can also use a chamois to remove water trapped under rubber gaskets. Skipping this step can cause streaks on the glass.
While using the squeegee, you should start by moving it from the top left corner of the window. Then, move it down the window and overlap the soap by about 1.5 inches from the end. This will allow the squeegee to drain the water.
Equipment
If you plan on working as a window washer, you will need a few different pieces of equipment. The first one is a bucket. The bucket should have a handle so you can easily carry it from job to job. It also needs a detachable blade so you can clean the window with ease. Otherwise, the scraper will wear out and require replacement.
The second piece of window cleaning equipment is a squeegee. This tool is similar to a standard extension pole, but comes with a specialized head that removes chemicals and metals from the water. It can be curved or straight, depending on the needs of the job.
Safety checks
Safety equipment and training are essential for a successful window washing business. Proper training ensures that the right person is performing the right task and that the tools and equipment are safe to use. It also helps minimize liability. Safety equipment should include safety harnesses, lines, anchors, personal protection equipment, and helmets. The equipment should also be regularly tested.
The International Window Cleaning Association (IWCA) has a field safety guide for window washers. This guide was developed through an alliance with OSHA. The guide covers the requirements for safety equipment and personal protective equipment, as well as the identification of hazards.
Chemicals used
The chemicals used in window washing are often harmful to humans, and it is best to wear protective clothing when handling them. The types of chemicals used in window washing depend on the type of contaminant or streak that needs to be removed. One of the most common chemicals used is ammonia, which is a surfactant that effectively lifts particulate soils from windows without leaving any streaks behind. It is also water-soluble and has a low evaporation rate, which means it cleans windows immediately and doesn’t need to be reapplied.
Other chemicals commonly used in window washing include butoxyethanol, or 2-butoxyethanol. Butoxyethanol is a strong solvent that is found in many household chemicals. It is responsible for the sweet smell of Windex and is used to make paint and other household products. However, this chemical can be harmful to red blood cells and is best avoided if possible.
Hours of work
There are a few factors to consider when setting up a window cleaning business. First of all, you need to find out how many hours you can devote to the job. Most window cleaners work for 6 to 8 hours per day, five to six days a week. This includes two to three hours per day for office work and two to four hours for squeegee work. Depending on the weather and season, you might be able to work longer hours or a shorter work week.
After finding out how many hours you can devote to your window washing business, you should plan your schedule around the time you can clean the windows. The best time to clean windows is during the day. Window cleaning requires bright sunlight, so you should try to schedule your work around these hours. If you must work at night, make sure you set aside some time for your family and friends.
