The benefits of water-fed pole systems

The water-fed pole is one of the window cleaner’s most versatile and trustworthy tools. Residential and commercial window cleaners alike use it to bring sparkle to high windows that other hand-held tools cannot reach. The handy contraption can reach up to 70 feet – that’s about seven storeys! It enables windows to be cleaned accurately, efficiently and safely from the ground, rather than the cleaner having to abseil or use a cradle or cherry picker. Here are just some of the many benefits of using the water-fed pole for commercial cleaning

Efficiency

The water-fed pole system is incredibly versatile, so window cleaners can use it for a number of different tasks. This saves the need for multiple bits of equipment. By having the water-fed pole as the go-to solution for cleaning the first seven storeys of a building, window cleaners can work quickly and efficiently to get the building in sparkling condition.

Safety

Ladders are not often used in commercial cleaning, as the size of the buildings is usually too large and water-fed poles are a much safer and more efficient option. With water-fed poles, window cleaners can clean areas of glass that are beyond their natural reach without having to take their feet off the ground. They are a good option for cleaning higher storeys without requiring fall-arrest equipment.

Environmental friendliness

Water-fed pole systems use pure water, which is water that has been treated to remove any impurities. As it does not use harsh chemicals or detergents, it is an environmentally friendly option for cleaning windows. While water-fed poles are excellent water savers and reduce the amount of water that is wasted during the cleaning process, pure water ensures that, if any water does come into contact with surrounding plant life, it will not cause any damage.

A sparkling finish

The pure water system that is used with water-fed poles means that a better finish is achieved on the windows, as no residue is left behind from chemicals or detergents. The brush on the end of the water-fed pole loosens any grime and dirt on the window, while the pure water washes it away – meaning no scrubbing or close-up cleaning is necessary.

Here at Diamond shine, our high-tech window cleaning equipment means that we always have the right tools for the job – whether that’s a water-fed pole or a cherry picker. If your building in Gloucester, Cheltenham and the surrounding areas needs cleaning, just contact us today!

How to Choose a Window Cleaning Company in Gloucester and Cheltenham

Choosing the right window cleaning company can be confusing and everybody knows it. You must check different prices, insurance policies, secret clauses and so on and so on.

So we have made it easier for you and made this extremely helpful guide on how to choose a window cleaning company by yourself.

How to Choose a Window Cleaning Company Website

Needless to say, there is a mountain of websites to choose from when you start looking for the right company. This also makes it a lot easier for frauds to take advantage of you. The best way to protect yourself is to get educated.

• Search for websites with more than one page. If there is a website that offers services and has only one page, it’s most possibly a fraud.
• Find websites with easy navigation. Cluttered websites and websites with difficult readability might be owned by a legitimate company, but in general this is a symptom of bad advertising and irresponsible promotion. Also, it’s possible the company has shut down and they just left the website hanging. You don’t need to waste time on this.
• Pay attention to websites that offer multiple contact availability. A responsible window cleaning company will make it possible for their customers to get in touch in various ways. If someone only offers a phone and nothing else, they lack professionalism. For example, Fantastic Window Cleaners offers contacts by phone, email, booking form and chat feature.
• Note if they have social media pages. These days, it’s impossible to run a business without at least one social media page. The icons give a sense of security. Also, you can follow the company’s work on social media and make sure they are a good option.
• Check the website on mobile. Since the number of people browsing the internet on phones increases, most professional companies make sure their website is easily reached on a mobile device. If the website is comfortable to use on your phone, this is the company you need.

How to Choose a Window Cleaning Company

Once you set your eyes on at least a few professional looking websites, it’s time to search for the most valuable information. This will narrow the circle for you.

• See if they offer insurance. The first thing look at is this – no self respecting window cleaner would miss mentioning this on their website.
• Notice if they list benefits. A company that invested in a good informative website, knows that the most important point potential clients look at, is benefits. They will list all their best points. If there aren’t any benefits visible, you can move on to the next website.
• Do they offer satisfaction guarantee? If the company is professional, they are not afraid to list this in their benefits.
• Are there other services? Some companies might offer other services except window cleaning. This type would list a menu with separate pages with a description of each service.
• Is there a lot of information? The more detailed the information, the better. Not only information how they do the service, but also prices for orientation, payment options, deals and discounts, coverage area, possible blog, etc. Every professional knows transparency is key. Pros have nothing to hide.
• Are there pictures? Pros are not afraid to show a picture of their work on their website.
• Are there testimonials? Pros are not afraid to boast a little.

What Questions to Ask a Window Cleaner

Finally, you should have been left with a few professional and responsible looking companies. Now is the right time to get in touch with a representative and talk about your specific case in order to be sure they can offer you a customised service.

Here are the 5 most important questions to ask.

Q: Are you going to clean only the glass, or the frames and sills as well?

A: Some cleaners clean all of it, some don’t and will charge extra. It is important to know that in advance. Most companies who use water-fed pole systems, like us, include them in the price. So if you see a price which is suspiciously low, ask them if it includes those elements in the cleaning as well.

Q: Will you be able to reach all the windows from outside, or do you need to clean some of them from the inside?

A: We don’t need to explain how inconvenient it could be if they must clean them from the inside. Someone must be home to let the cleaner in and that’s not practical. This mostly happens if you have hard to reach windows on the second/third floor and the cleaner must use a ladder to reach them.

Q: Will you remove adhesive substances/stubborn marks?

A: Some might not carry the necessary tools, others could charge extra. So if you’ve spotted a bad mark on some window and you’re not sure, ask in advance.

Q: Is this the final price or will VAT be added?

A: Some companies might held that information back and suddenly your bill is 20% higher. It’s not correct but technically it’s not against the law. Also ask if there might be any extra charges. With, the free quote you receive is always the full price, but there are others that might charge extra for long distance of the address or other hidden stuff.

Q: Are you using water-fed poles or ladders?

A: This might actually be the most important question. If they are using water-fed poles, they most probably will clean the frames and sills and will easily reach every window, with no need to come inside.

In the process, you might have even more questions, don’t hesitate to ask them everything. You can also evaluate the way the call centre representative works with you. And, this is how to choose a window cleaner. We wish you luck in your search.

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School window cleaning service in Gloucester, Cheltenham and Stroud

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It is time to save money on your window cleaning costs. By filling out the form and sending it, you can set in motion the process of reducing your yearly window cleaning charge. So many schools in Gloucestershire have reduced their costs in this way. We clean many schools in Gloucestershire such as Millbrook academy in Brockworth, Coopers edge school in Brockworth, Sir Thomas Rich's in Longlevens, Marling school in Stroud, Cambridge school and many more.

Why use us?

With many years experience under our belt we are in a position to offer the very best window cleaning service at the best price.

Health & Safety

ou no doubt will require a risk assessment, method statement, a copy of our Health & Safety Policy and proof of Public Liability insurance.

Concerned about the use of ladders for the operative and members of the public? Now this is no longer an issue. We have many years experience with the Reach and Wash window cleaning method, comfortably reaching up to the 5th floor using super light weight water fed poles, safer quicker and more efficient, spending less time on site and reducing costs.

Quick Safe and Efficient

ou may require 2 or just one clean a year, the school may take 4 days or just one day to clean, whatever is necessary we will fit in with your requirements.  

Request a free quote

So lets start the process in one or two ways, call us on 01452 346124 and leave your name, telephone number and the name of the school on our voicemail, email us info@dswindowcleaning.co.uk or simply fill out the form below.

Window cleaning at Millbrook academy, Brockworth, Gloucester

Millbrook academy contacted us to clean their windows which have not been cleaned in over 3 years!! We provided them with efficient and thorough clean in the easter holidays ready for the new term. We also saved them ££££ compared to there last window cleaner, as school budgets are extremely low they were over the moon with the price and quality of our work.

We not only recognise the importance of a clean environment for both pupils and staff to excel, but reductions in school budgets and a greater emphasis on health and safety compliance means that finding the right service provider is more important than ever.

Contact us today for a free site survey and quotation

5 Reasons Why Window Cleaning Is More Important Than It Seems

No one objects the importance of cleaning your teeth every morning (excluding little kids, of course) as we all understand this is a very important part of everyone’s daily routine that saves us from cavity and keeps teeth healthy.

This concept, however, is not applied to other situations for some reason. From time to time we all clean windows in our homes but it is probably not on the priority list for many. A sticky floor is an issue, but dirty windows are usually tolerated for much longer.

Today we would like to shake up your perception about window cleaning and take a fresh new look at it as a service.

So here are the 5 reasons why window cleaning is more important than it seems:

1. 1. The Structure of Glass

Glass is porous and collects dirt that over time make it fragile or causes loss of transparency, pigmented spots, which accommodate microorganisms’ growth. In the end, that might ruin the glass completely.Common enemies of your windows and the main reason for the cleaning are:

1. 1. • hard minerals – from sprinkler systems and building run-off;
      • oxidization – from windows encased in metal frames and screens;
      • acid rain – they are more common than you think;
      • sea spray – salt slowly builds up on the surface of your glass;
      • overspray – accidental paint, chalk, mortar particles, etc.

1. 1. Subconscious Effect

Did you know windows significantly affect the way visitors perceive the credibility of a business? Subliminally or completely consciously, the majority of people will pay attention the cleanness of your glass front when visiting a store. Dirty windows will testify careless attitude and represent a business as less trustworthy and attractive overall. Clean windows, on the other hand, attract more visitors to the stores. Furthermore, experienced property agents testify increased interest towards the properties with clean windows among potential property buyers. Moreover, clean properties were sold at higher prices than those with the same features but dirty windows. It’s easy as a piece of pie – clean windows make everything look tidy, fresh and simply pleasant.

1. 1. House Heat Efficiency

This might be a big surprise for some of us, but it turns out dirty windows affect overall heat efficiency of your house. Dirt particles on the surface and in the pores of the glass simply reflect more UV light, preventing the sun from warming up your apartment during the cold seasons.The things get even worse when a filthy glass is combined with low-efficiency windows. Such a bundle might cause a gradual increase in heating expenses and even issues with mould in the long run.

1. 1. Maintenance in the Long Run

Just like with our teeth, it is tens times less expensive to care for them in the short run than to accept the long run restoration expenses. Once your windows start bearing the marks of time, it might be hard to reverse the process if possible at all. Micro-cracks and scratches, glass mould and spots will gradually destroy the glass and force you replacing the whole window pane at some point. Not talking about all the potential damage to the surfaces surrounding the window.

1. 1. It Just Works – Clean Windows Look Nice

In the end, you probably felt it for yourself – clean windows make you feel better, they offer a better view. The world in full colour is simply more satisfying. If you don’t understand what we mean, just ask your friend with glasses about their perception of the world before and after cleaning the spectacles. Some might even mention an increase in self-esteem and boost in positive thinking. Don’t let yourself down with smears and smudges 

Okay, now when we are clear with the reasons and have our conclusions, the next question is:

How Often Should I Clean My Windows?

It’s a great question. However, to give an objective answer to this question, one has to analyse their specific conditions and the environment they live in. If you live close to a busy road, the gasses and heavy elements will build up much faster than on the windows of a person living close to a park.

First of all, think about a frequency of rain in your area, all sources of pollution (both natural and human-caused).

Secondly, just observe how fast your windows attract dirt. You might take a notice on how often people on your street wash their windows.

For highly polluted areas, it might be once or even twice per week. For windows in the most households, the golden ratio might be once or twice a month, depending on how close is the sea, forest, sources of sand, industrial dust and other dirt factors. If you live in a perfectly balanced environment, you windows might enjoy bi-monthly cleaning. The point here is not to leave them on their own for more than 3 months.

You Shouldn’t Clean Windows In The Rain – Is That Really True?

It is a commonly held belief that windows should not be cleaned when it rains because the rain will just make them dirty again. Is this really a fact?

The simple answer is ‘no’. Although in some parts of Europe and the UK many people believe having their windows cleaned when it rains is a waste of time, in the USA, it is normal practice for window cleaners to carry on in all weather except storms and high winds.

Windows need cleaning because they get dirty not because they get wet. Back in the days when most houses had chimneys that were belching smoke, it probably would of been true that by the time the rain drops reached the ground they were full of dirt and smoke particles.

With the Clean Air Act, that situation has changed. Nowadays the three major causes of dirty windows are dust, pollen and droppings. If these are present on the window glass when it rains, the residue in the rain attaches itself to the dirt and can often make the windows look worse. When windows are clean the rain will simply run off and the glass continues to remain clean.

Do we Clean Windows In The Rain?

Yes we do clean windows in the rain. The next time you see us out in the rain, don’t think “he shouldn’t be cleaning windows in the rain”. Instead feel sorry for him, because frankly it’s miserable working outside in that weather. Cleaning windows in the rain is not a problem – rain water is normally clean – cleaner than tap water.

OK, there is one other thing that makes a difference when cleaning windows ‘in’ the rain. If you use the traditional style of window cleaning, it is more difficult to finish them when it is raining – not impossible, but it is more difficult. So, that is just a problem for the window cleaner, not the owner of the windows. Anyway, this doesn’t apply to us,  as we use the pure water cleaning technique. This technique is not affected by the rain, so anyone using this method can happily clean windows in the rain with no ill effects to the windows.

If you have any questions you can contact us on 01452 346124

How to Climb a Ladder Safely

With an estimated two million ladders in daily use across the UK, it is perhaps not surprising that ladders account for around 40% of falls from height accidents investigated by the Health & Safety Executive in workplaces in the UK each year.

The use of ladders is by far and away the largest single cause of such accidents both in the workplace and at home.

We decided to share the Do’s and Dont’s on the use of ladders. While its best not to use them sometimes they need to be used.

How to Put Up Ladders

Placing ladders in the wrong position is the most often made mistake that leads to injuries. Here is how to place the put up the ladder safely.

• Make sure you do not put the ladder on uneven ground.
• Place the ladder laying flat on the ground.
• Push one end of the ladder against a wall.
• Lift the other end of the ladder up and rest against the wall.
• Set the right angle, by using a 1:4 ratio. Divide the ladder by four. If the ladder i 4 meters long, the base should be 1 meter away from the wall.
• If the ladder is extra long, find a second person to help from the other end.

How to Climb a Ladder Safely

• Ensure that your ladder is fit and fully functional before using it. Check thoroughly for any loose steps or other defects.
• When you place the ladder, be sure it is on an even and not slippery surface. Remember that just one swing can be crucial. If the ground is uneven, do not put anything under the ladder, as it will only make it more unstable.
• Always climb with a two-hand grip, facing the ladder.
• Avoid holding a box of tools in one hand when climbing up.
• Take one step at a time and don’t rush it. If the angle is not right, you should be able to feel some shaking. Get back down to fix the angle in necessary.

How to Climb a Step Ladder Safely

• Ensure the ladder is fit and fully functional before using it.
• Never set up a stepladder on uneven, or slippery ground.
• Never sit or stand on the very top step of the step ladder.
• Only climb up the front of the ladder, never the back side.
• Do not allow a second person to climb from the other side. There are special two person ladders out there, but if this isn’t one, let the second person only hold the ladder in place if they want to help.
• Keep your hips within the two vertical rails.
• Remove all tools and materials from the ladder before moving it. You really want that hammer falling on your face?
• Never use a step ladder like an extension ladder by leaning it against a wall.

Never leave step ladders unattended, especially if there are children around. Remember your childhood and how fun it was to get on high places – the kids want to do it too. So, when you’re done working, put the ladder away, or at least lay it on the ground.

What Not to Do

The following basic precautions come in handy.

• Never use the top two steps of an extension ladder.
• Do not work near any electricity, especially if the ladder is made of metal.
• Do not lean a step ladder to a wall, the way you would do with an extension ladder. They don’t work the same way.
• Both step ladder feet should sit firmly on the ground. If the ground is uneven, dig some dirt out from beneath one foot.
• Never place an extension ladder on slippery surfaces.
• Always face the ladder when ascending and descending.
• Use both hands to grab the rungs, not the rails.
• Wear a tool belt or holster to carry tools and supplies in order to decrease your time going up and down.
• Keep your hips within the vertical side rails, otherwise the ladder will lose balance.

Top tips for cleaning the inside of your windows!

Invite the brightness back into your home with sparkling clean windows. From making your own cleaning solution to the trusted old newspaper trick, there are plenty of ways to bring the shine back to your window panes which will transform your rooms making them light, bright and good for the soul.

Your equipment checklist:

Here’s what you’ll need for cleaning windows in order to get a professional finish:

A Large dry brush or broom handle for removing cobwebs and dust

A bucket

A sponge

A squeegee

Purpose made window cleaning solutions or vinegar

Brown paper or newspaper

Chamois or microfibre cloth

Dry lint free cloth or drying pad

Cleaning windows tips:

1. Remove any built up dust

Start by tying back or removing any curtains or blinds and use a dust pan brush or broom handle to brush around the window corners and window sill to eliminate any laying dust.

2. Start by washing your window with a sponge

Washing up liquid in warm soapy water will work well but remember – the fewer suds the better. Be careful when using strong window cleaning solutions that they do not damage surrounding paintwork.

3. Wipe off the excess water

With a clean squeegee, starting at the top of the window and work your way down in a reverse-S pattern for maximum efficiency. Regularly wipe the squeegee blade clean with an old rag to avoid transferring the dirt around.

4. Remove any remaining water

Use damp, wrung-dry chamois or microfibre cloth to remove any remaining water from the glass. Finally dry the windowsill beneath where any water may have dripped down.

5. Wash windows on a cloudy day

Although direct sunlight makes it easier to see the dirt, it also dries the windows too quickly, leaving streaks on the glass. Make sure you pick a cloudy day for your cleaning session (but if you’re doing the outside, beware of rain!).

6. Clean your windows at least twice a year

This will make a truly surprising difference to your whole room by making it lighter and brighter. You’ll be surprised at how dirty your windows can get

7. Make your own cleaning solution

Add two tablespoons of vinegar to a small bucket of warm water.

8. Really dirty or greasy windows?

Use two tablespoons of household ammonia or domestic borax per gallon and rinse
with the vinegar solution above. Finish with a dry, lint-free cloth.

9. Buffing

Buff the clean, dry glass, with a pad of crumpled newspaper. The printers’ ink will give your windows an extra sparkle.

If you still do not want to have a go yourself, give us a call or visit www.windowcleaninggloucester.co.uk to recieve a free quoation