Window cleaning industry update
June 1st 2007

The window cleaning business has seen many new developments in recent years.Darrell Chalkley from The Windowclean Centre explains how the industry is keeping apace with the latest advances in technology

Pure water cleaning systems continue to develop with improved filtration techniques and the future promises further ultra lightweight composite poles and brushes for improved operator comfort and reduced fatigue. Long-term developments will come from the need to address the environmental concerns and costs associated with a more economical use of pure water. The adoption of ergonomically shaped handles has been universal. Unger's ErgoTec handle provides a comfortable shaped grip of bi-composite construction with slip resistant moulding.

Ettore has introduced its ProGrip moulded handle with additional length and Contour Pro+ squeegee handle which features spring loaded adjustable head. Most recently, Pulex has brought out its Technolite squeegee handle with a shaped bimoulded grip. Window cleaners particularly appreciate the warmth these handles provide,when working in cold conditions. This handle design is now being introduced by many manufacturers, on the larger (4" plus) glass scrapers.

Another recent development has been the introduction of microfibre into the professional window cleaning industry.

Not only in the manufacturer of strip washer sleeves where microfibre's super water-holding capabilities mean less resoaking between windows, but more significantly in the increased use of microfibre cloths which are replacing the traditional window cleaners' scrim. With benefits such as increased absorption, the ability to be used wet, damp or dry, an absence of linting, and with a longer life, it can only be a matter of time before microfibre glass cloths become the industry standard.