Continue reading »]]> So last night I was reading and I heard my phone ring. I answered it and it happened to be Satan.  He said that he had had it with all this window cleaning.

“What in the Sam hill are you talking about Satan?!” I replied.

“I work hard all night long to keep those windows dirty. Do you know what it cost me per hour to send my minions out to dirty up windows?! It costs me $3,645! Then you people just come in behind us and clean it up! Who do you think you people are?!” Satan screamed at me through the phone. If I had recognized the number I would not have picked up the phone. Here I was trying to enjoy this quiet night by myself and instead I was being yelled at by Ol’ Beezelbub. I did not have the time or patience for this little man. However, I was kind of confused so I decided to give him 5 minutes and hear what he had to say.

“I didn’t know that dirtying windows was your kind of thing. I figured you would be busy torturing sinners down there.” I said.

“That’s a different department. I didn’t even know that this was going on until Cathy from Human Resources called me to inform me that we were over budget in the dust bunny department. You people are seriously killing my account here. I can’t afford to keep making all those windows up there dirty! I would really appreciate it if you could spread the word and let people know to please stop cleaning their windows! You’re killing me here!”

“Okay Satan. I believe that people here on Earth enjoy clean windows. It lets the sun shine in, makes rooms look bigger, ups the value of their homes and offices, and just generally makes people feel better. I am not going to hinder that! That’s like taking the joy out of Christmas!” I replied defiantly.

“Listen Merry, I understand where you are coming from but couldn’t you just do me this one solid? I mean come on. The people up there don’t really know what they want! Who needs all that light shinning in their houses blinding them? Who could possibly want all that joy?! I will sell you a new soul if you just make people stop cleaning their windows!” Now he was begging. I was in need of a new soul as I had previously sold mine for a box of chocolates and a campfire mocha from Caribou, but then I realized it wasn’t worth it. The people of earth deserved clean windows! They deserved happiness derived from clean windows and higher property values!

“NO.  I cannot do it Satan. I won’t. So you keep dirtying windows and A to Z Window cleaning will continue to clean them and bring joy to the world!” I then hung up my phone. He repeatedly called me but I refused to answer.  So, the reason I shared this story with you all is because we can’t let him win. We must keep our windows clean. I find some joy in driving up his expense account and so should you. Don’t let Satan win, have your windows cleaned. I know a great company that does an excellent job too. (Hint: it’s A to Z window cleaning)

Continue reading »]]> The International Window Cleaning Association (IWCA) and The Glass Association of North America (GANA) released a joint Glass Informational Bulletin (GIB) which could have been titled a little better.  Construction Site Protection and Maintenance of Architectural Glass is not just that catchy. Anyway, it outlines the need for proper protection of architectural glass throughout the construction process to all general contractors and builders. Okay so this is pretty simple to understand  here is that bulletin that was sent to builders CLICK HERE FOR THE  CSPMAG.

So the Glass Association is really fighting us on this. They say we should use plastic scrapers or not to use scrapers at all. They say use chemicals to get stickers off the glass  ( a chemical that will mess up the seal of the window). IWCA sent an open letter has been sent to the Glass Association of North America in addition to a number of construction, glazing and glass trade magazines. This letter reaffirms the IWCA’s position that razor scrapers are the tool of the trade for cleaning glass. Its just the standard practice   I could not imagine it any other way. It’s an easy fix to clean the equipment where tempered glass is made. The open letter Click here.

To help builders and property owners understand that they may be buying a defective product, and help educate builders about tempered glass quality problems before they become scratches, window cleaners can now download documents from the IWCA site to be included in a Builder Education Packet. Send this packet of information to builders in your area along with your proposal or marketing materials.

Another great resound  is to study the IWCA’s “Talking Points” posted here, to help understand the IWCA’s position before attempting to explain the tempered glass quality issue to builders and other customers.

Some tempered glass surfaces are highly susceptible to scratching due to contamination with microscopic surface defects called fabricating debris. Tempered glass scratches caused by fabricating debris have distinct characteristics, and should not be confused with other types of scratches. Click here to learn about field identification of fabricating debris scratches.

The IWCA recommends a tempered glass scratch liability waiver for all construction window cleaning contracts, before any work is done. Click here for an example of a Cleaner to Builder liability waiver.

The IWCA also suggests that builders require suppliers to provide quality tempered glass without fabricating debris, so that all glass can be cleaned – without scratching – using the same tools and methods. Click here for an example of a Builder to Supplier waiver.

The IWCA Tempered Glass Informational Bulletin 2004 – Scrapers & Fabricating Debris is the IWCA’s official position.

Continue reading »]]> The easiest answer is looking out a clean window is just better. Simply having clean windows just looks so good.  How do you feel when the windows are cleaned? You feel more creative, you’re in a  better mood and well, over all, you just feel better.  Clean windows can also improve your insight as well as the sight through your window! It can also improve your property value.

Cleaning your windows is a preventive measure. If you don’t clean your windows they will eventually stay dirty permanently.  This is called  glass degradation. Over time , glass can become infused with contaminates such as oxidization, hard minerals, acid rain and overspray (paint, caulking, etc.). Since glass is porous, these pollutants settle into the surfaces’ grooves and valleys. Regular cleaning is necessary to prevent permanent damage. Also, hiring a professional window cleaner is much cheaper than having to replace your windows.

Window cleaning can be dangerous and time consuming. Without the proper safety precautions, one could really hurt themselves attempting to clean the outside of one’s windows.  Also, making sure that you clean the windows meticulously and properly can take a lot more time then one might have. Professional window cleaners are trained in the highest safety precautions available and it’s what we like to do so we are more than willing to take the time to do that meticulous cleaning.

So, you may not think that you need your windows cleaned but look again. Do you really want to look at that same dirt in 5 years? Why not get rid of it now? If not it might just decide to stay and bring down the value of your house and annoy you until you have to buy new windows!

Continue reading »]]> What business is A to Z window cleaning in? We are in the window cleaning business. A to Z cleaning is a business you can count on. We clean windows big or small, up high or down low.  A to Z window cleaning is just that, we will clean all windows A to Z. We will do our job  as meticulous and as detailed as humanly possible. Window cleaning is our passion and with a view like we get to see from those tall buildings, how could it not be? Especially since we work in the most beautiful city in the country. Some of our employees have been cleaning windows for more than 20 years. We are experienced and we love our jobs.

Being in the window cleaning business also means that we are in the making people happy business. Don’t you feel better when everything is clean and tidy? Don’t your employees seem to do a better job when the sun is shinning on them through those clean windows?  Don’t you hear a lot less complaints from your tenants when things look like they are supposed to as opposed to covered in grime and dirt? Or maybe you’ll feel the happiness when the property value on your house goes up simply by having your windows cleaned. It’s the small things in life that matter most!

We do excellent work at a decent price and although money can’t buy you happiness, it can clean your windows which I know, will make you smile and hey with clean windows, you will be able to see yourself smile!

So A to Z window cleaning is in the window cleaning business and we are also in the happiness business. You’ll be happy your windows were cleaned and you’ll be even happier with our quality of work and value you got for your dollar!

Continue reading »]]>

Continue reading »]]> Hard water stains can not only damage the glass but also make your building look horrible. Costing you long term tenants itching for a new place and also loss in rent.

Hard water deposits form on windows that are exposed to over-spray from sprinkler

Can you see me now

systems. Mineral deposits in the water collect on the glass and appear as a haze and/or white spots. If the mineral deposits are not properly removed from the glass surface it can etch the glass. If not cleaned the stain can be that much more difficult to remove.

Your windows can be safely restored with the proper cleaning solutions and eliminate the risk of expensive window replacement. After you restore your windows to its original condition it is highly recommended to ask your professional window cleaner to apply a glass protectant. Glass protectant  is an invisible barrier that protects the glass surface against hardwater stains, masonry run-off and atmospheric pollution.

The process is pretty simple, identify the stain and use the right chemical to remove it.  When your dealing with a stain thats ground level its simple enough its when its 8 stories up that having a experienced window cleaning company really is the only choice.

Continue reading »]]> We stopped in our local window cleaning supply business in Pittsburgh and at first we were just by ourselves,on a rainy day. I was with my partner,my wife, my love Mercedes.

We’re picking up window cleaning supplies; blades, some blue hucks and soap. As we were being waited on about four other window cleaning companies came in. I recognized a few of them, good guys salt of the earth types.

It seems that window cleaners are the hardest working people on the planet. And what it seemed is that no one was talking to each other and my wife was thinking that no one could hear her. When in reality you could hear a pin drop in the place.

She says out loud to me “Are those the window cleaners? Is that the enemy?

“You can tell that everyone in the room was curious what I was going to say. As if their ears got bigger it seemed to have gotten quieter too. I turned back to my wife, my partner in the business and said to her “no glass is the enemy, these are my brothers in arms no swords, just squeegees ”

I know it sounds cheesy but it’s true there is this unspoken bond this fraternity of window cleaners.

Now I don’t know if there’s a patron saint for window cleaners but there should be! High-rise window cleaning can be quite dangerous. I would like to say that every window cleaner that I’ve ever met I would consider them to be a brother and I try to operate my business that way. I love to talk about business I am passionate about cleaning windows. Save the chest bumping for something else there is enough glass out there any how.  I operate a straight forward business. I bid on jobs and I win some and lose some.

Do you think fellow window cleaners are brothers or the enemy?

Continue reading »]]> So as a business owner your introduced to the idea that you can be sued. You

Its your responsibility

can protect yourself and your business.With theses protections you also help your clients understand the relationship. Its like a marriage some one has to take out the trash this just puts it in writing.

Limiting your risk and communicating to the customer is paramount in our litigious society. Being aware about what your responsibly is and what the property owner is responsible for is not an option to assume , Get it in writing!!

WORKMAN’S COMP WAIVER

 Most window cleaning companies are operated by just 1 or 2 partners everyone

I do everything cause there is no one else

having a 50/50 share in the business. Your requirement to have workman’s comp is not required in most states if your the owner of the business. If your the only one that works for your company- if you wear all the hats  A simple letter on company letter head is enough to cover your liability.Workman’s comp requirements differ stat to state.Check with your states workman’s comp requirements and always speak to your attorney for clear understanding of the laws and regulations .

Samle letter  of workman’s comp waiver                                                       Workman’s comp waiver

FABRICATING DEBRIS

Most customer have never heard of fabricating debris  As a window

Fabricating debri

cleaner hopefully you don’t find out when the glass has been scratched, and you have received a letter from an attorney saving your responsible for 29 windows about @ $15,000 .00  yeah fifteen thousand dollars, and you think insurance will cover it? Only if you have “Extended Broad Form Property Damage Liability Coverage” . This endorsement will give you back coverage for care, custody, and control. In other words, you can be covered for the exact thing you are working on. But still a no starter the cause of scratched glass is not the window cleaner and you need to know this. Get educated on fabricated debris educate your customers. I will do a post or a series of posts on fabricating debris.  But to protect your self get a waver signed , its just that simple.

Fabricated debris waver form thank you IWCA

WRITTEN FALL SAFETY PLAN

The last one is not really a wavier but really a statement of fact, ” A to Z window cleaning knows how we are going to clean this building, here is how and if something go wrong this is what we will do”

A fall safety plan is necessary on every job you do that is above three stories. It’s a simple plan to write it makes sense and it could save your life. Knowing the risks and how to prevent false is half the battle. Communicating to your team where the fall risks are and how to avoid them is critical to having a productive and safe work environment. Having a fall safety plan is just one small part of your safety of your company safety policy.

Fall safety plan

5th ave safty plan

These are just examples of fall safety plans, This is good work to under take during the winter or slow months. Its your home work, fall safety is not a competitive secret, share your expertise. Lets be safe and covered from the unexpected.

Always seek legal advice were applicable.

Continue reading »]]> Window cleaning ; how to find the right company.

1. Are they responsible and dependable Window cleaning company?

Most Window cleaning companies can say they’re reliable, until you speak with the owner or previous customers you have no idea. Talk is cheap. Window cleaning companies are comparatively easy to start and many just operate autonomously without any consequence for not showing up.  Ask for testimonial, talk to the owner, get the info you need.

2. What is the cost of  window cleaning service and where do they service?

Most window cleaning companies charge somewhat the same. Be wary of  window cleaning companies that charge too little or too much, as they may be a fly-by-night company you want to steer clear of. Where they service is important because the chance of them showing up on time is increased if they are familiar with your area. Trust your instincts you didn’t get where you are by ignoring them.
3. Do they have proper insurance, bonding, and licensing?

All though not all states / cities require window cleaning companies to be bonded and licensed; ALL companies need commercial liability insurance. Be sure to ask if they have at least a $1m commercial general liability insurance policy. If they have employees as well they typically need to have workman’s comp.
4. Is there any evidence of unprincipled activity?

A simple Google search may be what you need to do. Search the web for any comments or blogs regarding unethical activity. Look up their facebook page see what customers are saying. You can also ask for customers who have had work done and ask how their experience was, or check with the better business bureau for any information regarding unethical business practices.

5. Can they provide testimonials?

Most window cleaning companies gladly share testimonies. Most, if not all window cleaning companies should be able to provide testimonials. If not, either they’re a brand new company or they’re not confident in their work! If they can’t provide any be sure to get some sort of guarantee.
6. Is the work guaranteed? What if I’m not happy?

Ask if they offer any type of guarantee and what happens if I find something I don’t like when they’re done. Not talking about a rain guarantee. Some window cleaning companies just do their work, and some will do what it takes to make you happy (within reason). Most important is for the company to set proper expectations before beginning the job so you’re both on the same page. Be sure to talk about the condition of your windows to the company. Stellar service is what you want so ask what happens when something goes wrong.
7. How long have they been in business?

Typically, one would think the longer the company has been in business the better, HOWEVER, this isn’t always a guarantee of good service. There are a lot of companies that have been around for a while bogged down by the industry or just plain not excited anymore. Many new companies are excited to have fresh customers and provide high levels of quality and service. It’s best to do your homework and speak with an owner or manager responsible for the particular cleaning you want.
8. Who ACTUALLY does the cleaning?

There are a lot of NSP’s (national service providers) that sub out the window cleaning.  Most NSP companies are constrained by one factor price. This is important; as many company salespeople boast about the quality of the company but fail to point out the fact they’re in a time crunch and are sending their brand new employee to clean your windows. Just because the company is good doesn’t mean your work will be good! Probe and try to find out who is going to be sent to clean your windows.
9. How many people work for the window cleaning company and how many jobs do they do per year?

Some times this can be a touchy question. This should give you an indication as to how busy the company is and how much time they have to do a quality job. Larger organizations tend to have more work that may result in less time spent at your home so be sure to do your research. Bigger isn’t always better.
10. What safety precautions do they put in place?

With high rise window cleaning safety is more than just a good idea it can save a life. IWCA ANSI/IWCA I-14.1 standard requires a work safety plan be made for every building that a window cleaner is working on. Although the company may have the proper insurance you want to be sure they’re doing everything possible to avoid any mishaps. Things could include ladder safety straps, no-slip footwear, etc. When you hire a company to clean the windows on your building you want to make sure they are the cheapest, you need them to be safety conscience. With residential if they are not safe and have an accident on your property the liability can be the home owners responsibility.

11. Trust your instincts.

With a handshake you can tell, look into the eyes of the contractor. It’s not a sciences but an art and when you know you just know.  Red flags can come up with the best companies if you’re not sure ask,  if you need more information get it. You’re in the driver’s seat and trust your instincts.

Continue reading »]]> Window cleaning in Canonsburg well Southpointe which is really in Cecil but its still 15317, Can be kinda confusing.Then there is phase II of Southpointe what is it called Southpointe II, not the most original name but not the worst. So that’s Southpointe a business park, golf coarse.

Most of the buildings are placed perfectly in site of the fare way , I wonder if what the affect on productivity is with a golfer in view of your desk. But who could say that its not a motivator.

A to Z cleaning takes pride in cleaning windows for theses buildings. Cleaning buildings smaller than 7 stories and taller than 3 has its own challenges for most window cleaners. With no roof access or no flat roof, theses types of buildings require lift experience and that is not an easy skill to acquire.

Even the most experienced lift operator will tell you things can still go wrong in the best of circumstances. Having a plan and how your going to do the job takes a lot of the risk out of the equation.We create  a detailed plan made on each building and how it will be cleaned.

Cleaning windows with a lift can be very dangerous, a lot of hazards are present but are unseen. I believe the first rule about having the windows cleaned by a boom lift is the equipment itself.

A good rental company will have maintained the equipment and also make great consultants when selecting the right lift for the job. We use NES from Butler,  we have a great relationship with them It makes us more compditive to have them on our team and that’s important .

The buildings in Southpointe are almost all done with a lift with a few exceptions. With the work being done with a 100′ JLG lift you need to make sure that the window cleaner can do it safe.

A to Z cleaning, cleaning windows for Cal building using a 60′ jlg lift and doing the windows on the left side , you have cars and pedestrians getting as close as they can. With access to the sides of the building only by lift  having the right window cleaner is not only smart, its necessary.

If you have a building in Southpointe , Canonsburg 15317 let us give you a quote.