If you have ever had to wash windows, you know the challenges that come with the job. Window washing is a highly-skilled profession that involves a lot of physical work and can be difficult to get into. But, there are a few ways you can make sure you are ready to get started.
Awkward moments
As a window cleaner myself, I have to say that the window cleaning industry has a lot of hoopla, but it’s not all bad. Besides, if you’re going to get some serious sand on the inside of your windows, you might as well slap some polish on the outside. In other words, you should really go the extra mile and use the services of a quality window cleaning company. The spruced up windows of yours will last you a good long while, and if you’re lucky you might be able to snag a discount on your next window cleaning bill.
Safety precautions
If you’re interested in a job as a window washer, you’ll need to be aware of certain safety precautions. These can help you to avoid falls and other common hazards.
Among the many safety precautions for window washers, the most important is to wear proper equipment. The equipment you’ll need includes a harness, goggles, gloves and a helmet. Depending on the chemicals you use, you may also need respirators or eye protection.
You also need to be familiar with the rules of the state in which you work. In New York, for example, a city commissioner must approve your window cleaning plan. The city’s labor department also conducts safety checks. If you work from a scaffold, you must be specifically trained.
You must also ensure that the scaffold you’re working from meets OSHA standards. For example, you must wear steel-toed boots to protect your feet.
Work year-round
Window washers can work year-round in most places. The job may be seasonal in colder climates. There are certain risks associated with the job, however. Some people avoid working in the field because they are afraid of heights.
Window washers can enjoy many benefits of this job. They can see the world through the windows of skyscrapers, and can earn good money. They can even save up for their future. It is a dangerous job, though, and the chances of a fatality are high.
Window washers have to use safety equipment such as helmets and ropes to prevent accidents. They also need to be able to recognize if the glass is damaged or the frames are loose.
Window cleaning can be expensive. It is recommended to hire a professional company for the job. There are a number of different types of buildings, and the window washers will need to know how to clean them.
Pay range
When it comes to window washer salaries, there are many variables that can affect your pay. It all depends on where you live, what type of window cleaning services you specialize in, and how much expertise you have.
Typical tasks include washing windows, polishing glass fittings, and checking seals. Some of the equipment used in the job includes ladders, squeegees, and scaffolding. Whether you work as an independent contractor or as an employee of a janitorial crew, you can earn a good amount of money.
The average window cleaner salary in Austin, TX, is $28,378. Compared to the national median, this figure is on the high end.
Those who specialize in high-rise building cleaning earn a higher income. Window washers who do these jobs are often paid more than their nonunion counterparts, but not as much as maintenance workers who clean floors, gutters, and ductwork.
High-rise window washing
High-rise window washers keep the world’s most famous skyscrapers clean. Whether in New York City, London, or Tokyo, these professionals use a combination of techniques to remove grime and dust from windows.
The job requires workers to brave the elements and get to high heights. They wear protective gloves and a tool belt, and use a variety of tools.
While working on a high-rise building, windows washers are at risk for falling. This can be catastrophic and can even injure pedestrians.
Fortunately, the industry has taken steps to make window cleaning safer. For instance, all workers who use a suspended scaffolding must be trained and equipped with a personal fall arrest system.
The International Window Cleaners Association (IWCA) has developed a safety certification program to help reduce the number of workplace accidents. The program includes five essential training focuses.
