How exciting that you’ve launched your own window cleaning company and are now a business owner! It took a lot of effort to get here, but you can’t afford to relax just yet. The window cleaning industry is still highly competitive, and small businesses that stop growing quickly often fall behind.
Read this article and you’ll be well on your way to running a successful commercial or home cleaning service and growing your window cleaning business.
Before diving into growth strategies, it’s worth knowing that window cleaning businesses typically serve three main types of clients:
- Residential clients: These are homeowners—often in neighborhoods with higher median incomes—who want sparkling windows and curb appeal.
- Commercial clients: Think business owners, office managers, hotels, shopping centers, and apartment complexes. Commercial jobs tend to be larger, sometimes with recurring contracts.
- High-rise clients: High-rises and skyscrapers require specialized equipment, rigorous safety protocols, and additional insurance. This niche can be lucrative but comes with higher risks and regulatory requirements.
Most window cleaning companies cater to both residential and commercial clients, as their needs and service approaches often overlap. Deciding where to focus—or whether to expand into new client types—can shape your growth trajectory and help you build a stable, thriving business.
If you’ve been wondering, “How can I expand my cleaning company?” and here’s the accompanying answer:
When is it the ideal moment to expand your current cleaning company?
Maintaining a window washers steady rate of expansion is crucial, but timing is vital. Over expansion can be detrimental to a company, leaving it susceptible to financial difficulties.
Make sure everything is in order with your end of lease cleaning company before you start expanding with good customer service and excellent window cleaners working for you.
Three things must exist before you can even think about expanding your cleaning business.
To begin, you must have a sizable number of paying clients. A steady stream of walk-in customers isn’t enough to support a busy business. Don’t try to grow your cleaning business unless you already have a strong base of regular customers with average window cleaning jobs per week.
Your company must also demonstrate consistent profitability over the past year to two. You shouldn’t put money into a bigger cleaning business until you’ve shown you can consistently meet or beat your financial goals. The costs of expanding your cleaning company will add up quickly. Reinvest the current profit into the business to cover the expansion needs.
In the end, you’ll have to zero in on a promising expansion market with potential clients. It’s not wise to expand your cleaning company until you know exactly who you’re trying to serve and how to best position yourself in the market. If you invest in expansion before there is a market for it, you may end up spending a lot of money for no return.
You will be ready to grow your window cleaning business when you have a large client base, steady income, and a clear plan for how to grow. If you want to grow your cleaning company, use the following steps as a guide and start a window washing business.
How can you start a $100K/month window cleaning business?
If you’re aiming not just to start, but to scale a window cleaning business to impressive heights—say $100,000 per month—it’s wise to study both success stories and proven strategies. Let’s break down the approach that can turn a simple window cleaning venture into a thriving, high-revenue company.
Learn from Real-World Success
Entrepreneurs who have doubled revenue in a year often follow a pattern: they look for opportunities to improve branding, leverage technology, and increase operational efficiency. For example, successful business owners frequently rebrand for better visibility, modernize their websites, and automate their scheduling and quoting processes. Consider how changing an unclear business name to something more targeted, like can help you climb the search engine rankings and attract hundreds of local customers searching every month.
Establish a Clear Business Plan
Start by defining the scope of your services. Will you focus on residential areas, mid-sized commercial buildings, or even those sky-high office towers in the that make your palms sweat just thinking about them? Each segment has its own requirements for skills, equipment, and insurance.
Build a detailed plan that includes:
- Your mission and target markets
- Revenue goals (what will it take, per job and per month, to reach $100,000?)
- A clear pricing structure (per window, per square foot, or hourly for large jobs)
- Marketing strategies, utilizing both digital channels and traditional methods like local flyers or branded vehicle wraps
Budget for Growth
Before investing in expansion, set a realistic budget. Consider:
- Equipment and supplies: squeegees, extension poles, cleaning solution, sturdy ladders, and—if you’re really dreaming big—a reliable work van
- Wages and commission structures for staff (for example, base pay plus percentage commissions to reward high performers)
- Marketing spend, including website optimization, targeted ads, and direct mail in high-value neighborhoods
Mapping out a budget helps you keep profit margins in check and avoid unpleasant surprises as your business grows.
Understand Industry Financials
Industry data shows that window cleaners earn anywhere from $12 to $29 per hour, and business owners often achieve profit margins between 20% and 25%. Hitting $100,000 per month requires a combination of high volume, premium commercial accounts, efficient service delivery, and a capable team.
Plan for your team’s compensation and overhead:
- Base hourly pay
- Commission or bonuses for high-ticket jobs
- Annualized admin and insurance costs
- Ongoing investment in marketing and training
Master Marketing and Operations
To stand out, think beyond word of mouth. Create a recognizable brand, showcase customer testimonials on your website, and use quoting tools for instant price estimates. Don’t forget the power of excellent customer service—sometimes, the difference between a one-off job and a recurring contract is just a friendly follow-up note or a well-designed business card left with the neighbor.
Build relationships with local property managers, homeowners’ associations, and commercial landlords. Attend networking events or join organizations like the for credibility and learning opportunities.
Finalize Legal and Administrative Details
Register your business properly and obtain the necessary licenses and insurance policies (general liability, workers’ compensation, and auto coverage). Separate your business and personal finances with dedicated accounts and credit lines—even if you’re running the show from your living room.
By following a step-by-step, strategic approach and reinvesting in your business, you’re well on your way to scaling from humble beginnings to a $100,000 per month operation.
Let’s dig into how to lay the groundwork for expansion so your business is ready when opportunity knocks.
In order to expand your cleaning company
Table of contents one of the important aspects of expanding your cleaning business is having a system in place that you can always return to. If you follow these seven guidelines, you’ll have a solid foundation on which to build your strategy for expanding your cleaning business.
How much do window cleaners typically earn per hour and per year?
Let’s talk numbers so you know what to expect for yourself and your team. Based on recent data from the the average window cleaner’s earnings can range quite a bit across experience and location.
- Hourly wage: Window cleaners generally earn anywhere from $12 to $29 per hour.
- Annual salary: This translates to an annual income between $25,950 and $58,780 for full-time professionals.
How you pay your staff—whether by the hour, per job, or with commission incentives—will determine your total outlay and can also affect motivation. For instance, some window cleaning companies offer a base hourly rate (such as $12 per hour), plus a commission (like 15%) on each job they complete. In practice, this means a cleaner could take home $35–$40 per job if they work efficiently and handle higher-value projects.
Bear in mind, pay rates will also vary if you operate in larger urban markets versus smaller towns, so adjust your expectations and compensation packages accordingly.
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Create a list of your development objectives.
In what ways are you expanding? How quickly are you maturing? These kinds of inquiries can be essential in figuring out just what it is you want to accomplish. Compose a plan that encompasses both long-term, five-year objectives and more immediate, interim targets.
If your goals aren’t SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, focused on results, and have a deadline), you’re probably not going to be motivated to see them through to the end.
You can begin prioritising your objectives once you have defined them. As you gain additional information, you may decide to adjust the criterion for prioritising.
Crafting Your Pricing Strategy
As you map your growth, double-check that your pricing strategy supports your aims and remains profitable as you expand. Moving into new markets or targeting different types of customers calls for a careful look at how you charge for your services. Ask yourself: Will your current pricing model still work, or do you need to adapt?
Consider the main ways window cleaning companies price their work:
- Per Pane: Charge based on the number of window panes. This is straightforward for residential jobs, with rates typically ranging from $4 to $15 per window.
- Square Footage: Some companies bill according to the square footage of windows or the entire property, which can simplify quoting for tract homes or uniform properties.
- Time and Materials: For commercial properties or custom homes with unique challenges—think extra stories, screens, or hard-to-reach windows—charging by the hour ($80 to $150 is common) lets you account for the extra effort.
Most small businesses start by calling around to see what others in their area are charging. Don’t be afraid to compare, and adjust your pricing as needed to stay competitive while ensuring your expansion remains profitable.
Verify that your pricing strategy is still profitable after you’ve figured out what you want to achieve. If you’re expanding into a new market or working with a different customer, will your current pricing strategy still work?
Is your pricing strategy appropriate for the market you’re entering? Examine cleaning pricing guides to learn about alternative cleaning pricing models, such as charging by the square foot, the hour, or a fixed fee.
Develop Your Pricing Strategy
Your pricing can make or break your expansion plans. Consider the different models commonly used in the window cleaning industry:
- Per Pane: Charge based on the number of window panes. Prices typically range from $4 to $15 per window, making this approach straightforward for many residential jobs.
- Square Footage: Some companies price based on the total square footage of windows or the home itself. This is especially effective for tract homes where jobs are predictable.
- Time and Materials: Ideal for commercial properties or custom homes, this method accounts for factors like ladders, screens, and unique window features. Rates often run from $80 to $150 per hour.
It’s a good idea to research what other local businesses are charging—pick up the phone and compare quotes to make sure you’re competitive without cutting into your profit margins.
As you refine your goals and pricing, remember that the right model will depend on your target market and the type of cleaning services you’re providing. Consider combining pricing strategies or adapting them as you expand into new neighborhoods or take on larger commercial projects.
By setting clear goals and building a flexible, market-appropriate pricing strategy, you’ll have the foundation you need to grow your cleaning business with confidence.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of Low-Cost Window Cleaning Services
You might be tempted to compete on price and offer budget window cleaning services—say, those irresistible “$99 specials.” While this strategy can attract new customers looking for the best bargain, it’s worth considering the bigger picture for your business.
Pros of Low-Cost Services:
- Quick way to fill your schedule, especially during slow seasons.
- Can introduce your company to a wider audience who may become repeat clients.
- Helps you edge out competitors in highly price-sensitive neighborhoods.
Cons to Keep in Mind:
- Lower prices eat into your profit margins, especially once you account for labor, supplies, transportation, and overhead.
- Attracting bargain hunters doesn’t always lead to long-term, loyal customers—they may jump to the next lowest offer.
- You risk devaluing your service and brand, making it more difficult to raise prices in the future.
- In regions with higher living costs , rock-bottom pricing may not even cover expenses, leaving you underwater.
Remember, every window cleaned has a real cost attached to it—your time, your team, and materials. Instead of simply chasing the lowest price, consider focusing on the value you provide, such as reliability, safety, and sparkling results that stand out. This way, you’ll set your business up for sustainable growth rather than racing to the bottom.
Learn the Facts
If you’ve come this far in contemplating the expansion of your cleaning company, you’ve probably done your homework. You should now look into the details that have an effect on your goals in more depth.
To put yourself and your company in the best position for success, you must first have an intimate familiarity with the target market, the nature of your services, and the nature of the competition.
To Begin New Knowledge and Skill Acquisition
If you want to grow your cleaning business, you’ll need to learn both old-school and new-school management and marketing techniques. During this time of fast growth, your company’s best chance of doing well is if you put time and effort into learning these new skills.
Management
Gain experience in management positions that could prove useful in the future of your company. Hiring policies, financial reporting, and standards business card of conduct could all use your input. If you have a firm grasp of these areas of study, you will be more equipped to make informed judgments and convey your expectations to your team.
Planning for Slow Seasons
It’s crucial to anticipate periods when the demand for window cleaning dips—those quieter winter months or rainy seasons can catch you off guard if you aren’t prepared. One smart approach is to create a budget that accounts for fluctuations and saves a portion of your earnings during busy periods to cushion leaner times.
Consider offering off-season promotions or introducing related cleaning services to keep income flowing steadily. For instance, adding gutter cleaning or pressure washing to your repertoire can fill gaps when window cleaning jobs slow down. Building strong relationships with your regular clients—perhaps through maintenance packages or annual service contracts—can also ensure reliable, recurring revenue.
Taking these measures will help you balance cash flow, avoid scrambling when schedules thin out, and cover overhead costs without stress or surprise.
Promotion of a Cleaning Company
It’s not enough to just advertise that you have a cleaning service in social media accounts. Marketing your business and brand online and getting involved in your community are two powerful ways to grow your business and brand’s reach.
You need to review the basics of marketing so that you can tell new clients in your expanded service area about your brand, services, availability, and how to get in touch with you.
Promotional Efforts in the Cyberspace
Nowaday’s consumers can easily locate companies over the internet. Make a website, a Google My Business page, and social media profiles for your cleaning business to make it easier to find online and attract more customers.
Get your name out there in the cleaning industry by building a website and mastering the fundamentals of search engine optimization. Involve all the services you offer. The provision of janitorial, housekeeping service, and cleaning services are all examples that could be included.
You should advertise the fact that you provide commercial cleaning services if you clean any commercial premises. Any of those cleaning-related terms could be used in a search.
Create a Google My Business account so that people looking for your services in your region can find reviews, contact information, and more. Make sure your company has a social media presence, and then promote it via social media and Google. Ads on the internet are a great way to introduce your company to a whole new audience and start conversations with potential buyers.
In addition to your website and social profiles, consider joining local business directories, such as These platforms not only offer valuable leads but also help establish your business’s credibility and authority in your area. Listing your cleaning service on these directories makes it easier for potential clients to find you when searching for reputable providers nearby.
By combining a strong online presence through your own channels with strategic placement in trusted directories, you’ll maximize your visibility and ensure your business stands out in a crowded digital marketplace.
Include a contact method on your website and in all of your advertisements. Phone numbers are preferable to email but both are fine. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of managing your own web marketing, a reputable marketing firm may be just what you need. You may save time and effort by investing in this, all while expanding your crucial internet presence.
What Should You Budget for Marketing?
A sensible starting point for new window cleaning businesses is to allocate up to $1,000 each month for marketing and advertising efforts. This investment can help you reach the widest audience possible without straining your resources. Typically, it takes anywhere from one to three months for your marketing strategies to begin showing tangible results—so be patient and stick with your plan. By consistently dedicating funds to both online and community-based promotion, you’re giving your business the foundation it needs to grow steadily and attract a loyal client base.
Community-Based Promotion
Getting your name out in the community is a tried and effective method of attracting new clients the following are all examples of community marketing:
- Developing and maintaining personal and social networks
- Connecting with local realtors
- Promoting a good reputation through word-of-mouth
- Financially supporting local gatherings
- Distributing cleaning company cards
- Using direct mail to pique people’s curiosity can also be an effective strategy. (Check out further resources for advertising a best cleaning service.)
To build early momentum, start close to home—offer your services to friends and family to gather honest reviews and testimonials you can share. These first-hand accounts help establish trust with new customers. Expand your reach by posting in neighborhood and community social media groups, where local recommendations carry extra weight.
Set aside time each week to write a blog for your business website. Regular blogging not only positions you as a knowledgeable local expert but also helps with search engine optimization, gradually boosting your company’s visibility online. Over time, these combined efforts will help your cleaning business build awareness and credibility, both in the neighborhood and beyond.
Boosting Revenue per Visit: Offering More Than Just Window Cleaning
When serving your window cleaning clients, you can grow your revenue per trip by making smart use of your skills and existing equipment. Many customers may not realize the range of services you’re capable of delivering—so why not take the initiative?
For example, if you also provide pressure washing, screen cleaning, or gutter cleaning, let your clients know these are available. Since you already use similar tools, expanding your service offering is both time-efficient and cost-effective. Here are a few easy ways to upsell:
- Suggesting add-ons such as pressure washing driveways or patios while on site
- Offering screen cleaning or light fixture cleaning for a small additional fee
- Asking if clients would like their gutters inspected or cleaned during your visit
The convenience of bundling multiple cleaning services into one appointment can be a selling point for busy homeowners or property managers. Not only does this approach help you get more out of each trip, but clients also appreciate having a reliable, one-stop solution for their property’s upkeep.
Don’t be shy about highlighting the versatility of your services during conversations or follow-up messages. You’ll maximize every opportunity—and your bottom line.
Take a look at the Rules and Standards
It might be difficult to ensure compliance with all local company rules when extending your services to a new site. It’s possible that you’ll need to make some adjustments to your methods, products, or processes in order to conform to the standards of your new market.
In order to preserve their market share, existing businesses may actively work to slow your expansion as a new competitor. One easy way they could achieve this goal is by reporting breaches to the authorities and therefore disrupting your operations.
Don’t make it simple for your competitors to destroy you. Your new and current employees alike will benefit from a thorough review of company policy. The next step is to establish measures to guarantee staff compliance.
Options for Financing the Purchase of a Window Cleaning Business
When it comes time to buy an existing window cleaning company, you don’t necessarily need to have the entire purchase price saved up. Several financing options are designed to help aspiring business owners get started, even if they have limited capital on hand.
One of the most effective methods is securing a small business loan from a commercial lender, especially those backed by the (SBA). These loans allow buyers to finance a large portion of the purchase price—often as much as 90%—so your initial out-of-pocket investment can be quite manageable.
Here’s how it usually works:
- SBA-Backed Bank Loans: A commercial bank, with the SBA’s guarantee, provides the bulk of the funds needed to acquire the business. With strong credit and a solid business plan, you may secure the deal with as little as a 10% down payment.
- Seller Financing: Sometimes, the current owner may agree to finance part of the purchase. This arrangement can also lower your upfront costs and simplify the process.
- Conventional Loans and Personal Savings: Although less common, these options may be available—particularly if the business is smaller or has strong financials.
By exploring these financing avenues, it’s possible to step into ownership of a window cleaning business without having to come up with the full purchase price yourself. This flexibility can be a game-changer as you grow your extension poles cleaning company and tackle new markets.
If necessary, revise your objectives.
Maintain forwards momentum in the growth of your extension poles cleaning company by constantly comparing your results to your targets.
Results from studies, the acquisition of new abilities, and the analysis of rules and laws can all have an effect on your intended direction. Goals should be reviewed and revised as appropriate.
If you’ve learned something new, factor it into your assessment of your aims. Then, reorder them in light of the revised criteria. It’s possible that you’ll need to either scrap old objectives or come up with brand new ones when your plans evolve and you meet new hurdles.
Create a Timeline of Events
If you want to get your scaling project off the ground, you should use smart objectives. Timelines for your smart objectives might serve as benchmarks along the path to success. Attend and celebrate them.
Don’t forget to include crucial dates, such as when you need to file key documents to keep your company and its growth in good standing with consumers, competitors, the market, and the community.
Don’t Stop Making Changes to Your Strategy
We can never predict how often plans will shift. Costs and interest rates change when supply and demand shift. The arrival of supplies may be delayed. Extreme conditions or a worldwide pandemic might also derail your endeavour.
Be flexible. This knowledge could be your saviour if something goes wrong, but it could also lead to unexpected benefits.
Let’s imagine you come up with a strategy to expand your cleaning firm. Then, once the groundwork has been laid, you find out that your target market is erecting an apartment complex. Because there are so many prospective customers in this area, you may wish to shift your advertising budget or approach.
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