- As told by Jeremiah Hickey owner of On The Spot Window Cleaning in San Luis Obispo County, CA
At the 2024 International Window Cleaning Association’s (IWCA) annual convention held in Galveston, Texas, at Moody Gardens, the answer was a clear “Yes.” But there’s a lot more to the story than that…
Picture an exhibition hall ablaze with excitement as I, alongside the esteemed Jeff Likes, showcased our expertise, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown: an exhibition heat as ambassadors building excitement for the speed window cleaning competition to come. Jeff Likes of Jeff Likes Window Cleaning in Davis, California, is the only other American to win the World Cup of Window Cleaning championship.
As the crowd gathered in anticipation, Jeff and I stepped onto the stage, our squeegees ready for action. With practiced precision, we demonstrated the finesse and technique honed over years of experience, leaving behind a trail of sparkling windows.
I completed my run in 10.5 seconds - the fastest run of the event!
Jeff and my exhibition set the stage for the upcoming contest and ignited the enthusiasm of the audience. The next fastest run of the night was Jeff’s exhibition run, while the winner of the event, Kory Klimas of Koastal Kleaners Window Cleaning in Connecticut took the title of this year’s IWCA’s “Fastest Window Cleaner” during the Jim Willingham Speed Competition.
My exhibition run was by far the fastest of the event filled with competitors from as far away as Brazil and Sweden; however, I was there as a mentor, coach, and judge of the event, not a competitor.
This was my and Amanda’s first time in Galveston. From taking in the coastal views of the Gulf of Mexico, to walking the downtown streets finding delightful culinary treats, and exploring the deep history of the famous island off the coast of Texas.
We didn’t realize, but Galveston is home to the worst natural disaster in U.S. history. The storm of 1900 was a massive hurricane that put the island under water; destroying 2/3rds of the structures and taking over 6000 lives. It was humbling walking through the streets and seeing plaques on the sides of buildings denoting them as survivors of that major storm.
Since then, there has been a sea wall built and many foundations raised to help prevent similar tragedies from the many hurricanes that continue to plague the region.
What about the food?
My favorite dish of our vacation was cajun-style jumbo shrimp in a thick red sauce. The red snapper was also a delightful fish that I had never eaten before. It was very light and flaky with just enough meaty texture to make me happy as I sank my teeth into it.
If you head to Galveston, I recommend Katie’s Seafood House for their boat-to-table freshness and delicious seasonal plates, and the Cajun Greek for their "Mason's Royal Head On Shrimp" in their recommended spicy sauce.
Of course, no convention would be complete without its fair share of networking opportunities. Amidst the bustling crowds and spirited conversations, I forged connections with fellow window cleaning professionals from Brazil to Sweden and everywhere in between. From sharing trade secrets to swapping stories of squeegee triumphs, I found common ground in our passion for perfection and commitment to excellence. It was a reminder that, beyond the thrill of competition and the allure of exotic cuisines, it's the bonds formed and cherished that truly make the journey worthwhile.
Until next time...
Window cleaning in Cayucos has its unique challenges: so we're here to help.
When you live by the breathtaking California coast, it's a dream come true. The salty ocean breeze, the soothing sound of waves crashing, and the sunsets over the Pacific make Cayucos a paradise. However, these coastal blessings come with a challenge: salty ocean deposits on your windows and frames. Fortunately, there's no need to fret. Our team at On The Spot Window Cleaning has you covered. With years of experience in the industry, we're here to give our top 5 suggestions for keeping your windows immaculately clear while still acting with the highest level of professionalism.
Living by the sea is like a perpetual vacation, but the salt in the air can be a relentless adversary when it comes to maintaining clear and spotless windows. Salt deposits not only obstruct your view but can also damage your window frames over time. That's where professional window cleaning comes into play. We've seen it all at On The Spot Window Cleaning, and now we're going to share our top 5 suggestions to make sure your windows stay spotless.
Professional window washers know that using the right tools is paramount. For windows by the sea, a squeegee, scrubber, and a high-quality, non-abrasive window cleaning solution are your best friends. Using the right equipment ensures a flawless finish and keeps salt buildup from causing damage over time.
Professionals also realize that a purified water rinse of the glass and frames is the most effective way to keep the salty debris from building up on the exterior of the windows.
Some of our favorite tools are on display in this video:
Consistency is key. Maintaining windows is essential, particularly in coastal communities like Cayucos. Setting a cleaning schedule, whether it's monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually, will prevent salt and grime from building up on your windows. Proactive maintenance keeps your windows and frames in perfect condition.
Read more about the benefits of a maintenance program here.
Sometimes, a DIY approach can be effective. You can make your cleaning solution using a mixture of water and vinegar or a mild dish soap. These methods are effective in getting rid of dirt and salt without damaging your glass. Just remember to rinse the exterior of the windows thoroughly and squeegee for a streak-free finish.
Notice what shewearsmanyhats.com has to say about this homemade solution: "There was an immediate difference, and so much easier than what we had tried in the past."
CAUTION: Do not rinse the windows with tap water unless you will be cleaning them immediately after. The mineral deposits that occur when using the local water will only cause more work for you.
Watch the video below for a professional demonstration of how to clean especially dirty windows.
When the going gets tough, the professionals get going. If you find your windows and frames are in need of some extra care, it's best to call in the experts. Professional window cleaning services, like On The Spot, have the experience and tools to handle the salt deposits and leave your windows gleaming.
It's not just your windows that need attention. Your window frames may corrode due to the salty air. Regularly inspect and maintain them, using appropriate sealants and paints as needed. You can prevent long-term harm to your frames by taking this additional precaution.
Although living in Cayucos is a dream come true for anyone who loves the shore, the salty deposits from the water can damage your windows and frames. The good news is that you may take in the stunning vistas that this paradise has to offer if you have the necessary information and expert assistance.
To recap, here are the top 5 tips from professional window washers at On The Spot Window Cleaning:
You can enjoy the unmatched beauty of Cayucos while maintaining the best possible condition for your windows and frames by using these guidelines. Get in touch with On The Spot Window Cleaning for more expert window cleaning and upkeep guidance. Our goal is to maintain your windows bright and your view unobstructed.
Enjoy these other videos on our YouTube channel:
How to Clean Extra Dirty Windows
Are you embarrassed when your guests can't see your stunning coastal views through those hazy, dirty windows???
NEVER let that happen again!!! Join our thousands of satisfied customers and enjoy a pre-scheduled maintenance plan.
Although we are fully staffed and equipped to handle last-minute, one-time jobs of all sizes, what our most loyal and happy customers truly love about us is our maintenance service schedule (which usually comes with a significant discount).
While an initial service comes with all of the benefits of using our well-trained, fully insured (including Workers' Compensation and General Liability), professional, and friendly staff; our automatically repeating service will bring a smile to your face for years to come without the frustration of having to track down your window cleaner each time you are looking for a service.
Don't wait another day to enjoy your pristine views. Get an instant quote now! Simply call or text us at (805) 489-1775 or click the "INSTANT QUOTE" button at the top or bottom of this page.
"Been using On The Spot for over three years now--they are the best! Great communication, always on time (or early!) and do an excellent job!" - Scott, Pismo Beach
"We recently hired On The Spot Window Cleaning that delivered outstanding results! From their punctuality to their meticulous work, they impressed us at every turn. Their attention to detail was remarkable, leaving our windows crystal clear inside and out. In short, we highly recommend On The Spot Window Cleaning for their thoroughness, professionalism, and exceptional results. Our windows have never looked better! We will be repeat customers without a doubt." - RDW, Grover Beach
Become part of our growing list of satisfied customers who enjoy the finest window cleaning in San Luis Obispo County's coastal areas. Don't let hazy windows diminish your breathtaking views any longer.
Contact us today for an instant quote, and let's bring back the clarity to your coastal lifestyle!
© 2023 On The Spot Window Cleaning
In 2019 there were 171 workplace deaths due to ladder falls and upwards of 6000 workplace injuries due to ladder falls.
The importance of purified water window cleaning cannot be overstressed. Maintaining the appearance of your home or business is crucial, and window cleaning plays a vital role in achieving this. Clean windows not only enhance the look of your property but can also impact your reputation. Dirty windows can create a negative impression, especially for businesses. However, traditional window cleaning methods can be dangerous, particularly when accessing high windows. That's why at On The Spot Window Cleaning in San Luis Obispo County, CA, we specialize in using purified water and extension poles to provide a safer and more efficient way of cleaning windows of multi-million dollar residential properties and commercial buildings up to four stories high.
Purified water is water that has been purified by removing impurities such as minerals, chemicals, and other contaminants. It is often referred to as Reverse Osmosis (RO) or Deionized (DI) water, which designates how the water was purified. It is preferred for cleaning windows because it does not leave any residue on the glass, resulting in a cleaner and clearer window. Traditional window cleaning methods require the use of soap, which can leave a film on the glass. The use of purified water eliminates the need for soap and squeegeeing, resulting in a more effective and efficient cleaning process.
Extension poles are an essential tool in modern window cleaning, particularly for multi-story buildings. The use of extension poles eliminates the need for ladders, which can be dangerous. Falls from ladders are a common cause of accidents in window cleaning, and the use of extension poles significantly reduces this risk. In 2019 there were 171 workplace deaths due to ladder falls and upwards of almost 6000 workplace injuries due to ladder falls.
Additionally, extension poles allow for easier cleaning of hard-to-reach areas, such as high windows and skylights. The poles are designed to be lightweight, making it easier for the cleaner to maneuver and control the pole, resulting in a more efficient and safer cleaning process.
Using purified water and extension poles provides numerous benefits, including a higher-quality finish and a more cost-effective solution for window cleaning over renting lifts or rigging for rope descent access. The window may stay wet after service, but it will look perfect when it dries, providing a clear and sparkling finish. Moreover, since extension poles are safer than ladders, they can save time and money on insurance and workers' compensation.
Regular window cleaning is essential for both homes and businesses for several reasons. First and foremost, clean windows enhance the overall appearance of the property, making it more attractive and inviting to visitors and customers. This is especially important for businesses that want to create a positive first impression on their customers. In addition, clean windows also improve the amount of natural light that enters the property, which can boost the mood and productivity of the occupants.
Another reason why regular window cleaning is important is that it can help extend the lifespan of the windows. Dirt, grime, and other debris can accumulate on the windows over time, which can cause scratches and other damage to the glass. This damage can be costly to repair and may even require the replacement of the entire window. Regular window cleaning can help prevent this type of damage, ensuring that the windows last longer and continue to perform as they should.
For businesses, regular window cleaning is even more critical as it can impact their reputation. Dirty and smudged windows can give the impression that the business is not well-maintained, which can negatively affect its reputation and drive away customers. On the other hand, clean and well-maintained windows can enhance the business's reputation and attract more customers.
If you are looking for a professional window cleaning company in San Luis Obispo County, CA, that specializes in using purified water and extension poles, On The Spot Window Cleaning is an excellent choice. Our team of experienced and highly-trained cleaners is committed to providing a safe, efficient, and high-quality window cleaning service to our clients.
We understand that window cleaning can be a dangerous task, especially when cleaning hard to reach windows. That's why we specialize in using extension poles to provide a safer and more efficient way of cleaning windows up to four stories high.
In addition to our expertise in using purified water and extension poles, we also offer a range of other window cleaning services, including interior window cleaning with traditional tools and extension poles, screen cleaning, and track cleaning. We use the latest equipment and techniques to provide a comprehensive and high-quality cleaning service that meets the needs of our clients.
Window cleaning is an essential service for both homes and businesses, and the use of purified water and extension poles is a safer and more efficient way of cleaning windows. Regular window cleaning can enhance the appearance of the property, improve natural light, extend the lifespan of the windows, and even impact a business's reputation. If you are looking for a professional window cleaning company in San Luis Obispo, CA, that specializes in using purified water and extension poles, On The Spot Window Cleaning is an excellent choice. Contact us today to learn more about our services and to schedule an appointment.
Check out these great sources for purification systems and extension poles: PH7 Pure Water Systems and SimPole
Do you reside in a seaside community with breathtaking views? You understand how crucial it is to maintain your properties and keep them looking their best as inhabitants of Counties like San Luis Obispo, California. Cleaning your windows on a regular basis is an essential component of home upkeep. We will examine the advantages of a regular window cleaning maintenance routine at various intervals in this blog post.
And now you, the conscientious homeowner, can answer the question: How often should I get my windows cleaned?
Do you value aesthetic appeal and want your home to look its best? The best choice in that case is a monthly window cleaning maintenance routine. This routine makes sure that your windows are always spotless, giving you and your visitors an unimpeded view of the stunning seaside environment.
If you live somewhere where the salt air builds up quickly, routine window cleaning maintenance will help to eliminate the salt. The windows of many beachfront or close-to-the-beach properties need to be cleaned even more frequently, sometimes weekly or every other week.
Of course, you might not require every window to be cleaned at each visit. Instead of serving all windows at once, firms like On On The Spot Window Cleaning offer servicing certain view windows for maintenance plans that are monthly or even more frequent.
An excellent substitute for homeowners who find it difficult to adhere to a monthly maintenance program is a quarterly window cleaning maintenance program. Having your windows four times during the year (every three months), you can enjoy a high standard of cleanliness all year long.
Those who reside in places with high levels of air pollution or a little further from the beach, like Arroyo Grande, California, can benefit from quarterly window washing. It's still possible for the salt and other airborne contaminants to develop window buildup that impairs vision. By removing this buildup on a quarterly basis, you can make sure that your windows are always clear and spotless.
A semi-annual window cleaning maintenance schedule is a fantastic choice if you want to have your windows washed less frequently. This means your windows will be cleaned twice a year; many like their windows cleaned in the Spring and in the Fall.
Semi-annual window cleaning is useful for people who want to maintain the curb appeal of their property but may not have the resources to commit to more frequent services. It can also help people who do not suffer from seasonal allergies or who reside in areas with low levels of air pollution.
For homeowners who prefer to have their windows washed only once a year, an annual window cleaning maintenance schedule is also a possibility. It's best to think about any special events you may have coming up and request your yearly window cleaning accordingly.
Annual window cleaning is beneficial for individuals who live where there isn't as much pollution or who are not as concerned about how their home looks throughout the year. Of course, if you have a limited budget this may be the best option for you.
More benefits than just a good view of the stunning Pismo Beach surroundings come from keeping the windows clean. It might also have important emotional advantages. Your mood and stress levels may be enhanced and reduced by clean windows.
Natural light exposure has been found in studies to be beneficial for mood and mental health. More natural light can enter your home through clean windows, which may lift your spirits and ease stress.
Also, having clean windows makes you feel proud of your house. Your self-assurance and pride in your home are increased when your windows are clean. This may result in a happier attitude on life and a general feeling of wellbeing.
Regular window cleaning might have physical benefits in addition to emotional ones. Why? Regular cleaning (including windows) can help minimize dust, pollen, and allergens in your house, which can help to improve indoor air quality and lessen allergy symptoms.
Regular window washing can also help shield your windows from harm. Dirt and other impurities can chip glass and cause other damage, which may require costly repairs. This damage can be avoided with routine cleaning, ensuring long-lasting windows.
Have you asked the question: How often should I get my windows cleaned?
Particularly for homeowners in coastal communities like Avila Beach, California, routine window cleaning is a crucial component of property care. Whether you choose a monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or yearly cleaning program, maintaining clean windows has many advantages. These advantages include keeping your home looking nice as well as enhancing your mood and lowering stress. Also, routine window washing lowers dust and allergens, protects your windows from harm, and enhances interior air quality. Households may always look their best and take full advantage of the stunning views of the beach and mountain environment by hiring a professional window cleaning business like On The Spot Window Cleaning.
Failed Windows? Uggh!!! If you live in a coastal community like our lovely beaches along the Central Coast of California, you may have noticed a common issue with your dual-paned windows – a hazy or foggy appearance, which indicates that there is moisture or condensation between the panes. Sometimes the windows may even look streaky or tarnished after they have been properly cleaned.
Failed windows can be a frustrating and unsightly problem, especially when you want to enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean or the hills surrounding your home in a town like Cayucos or Avila Beach. This problem is not unique to our area and affects homeowners across the country. We will examine the causes of dual-paned windows failing in this blog post, as well as possible solutions.
The most typical kinds of windows for newer homes are dual-paned windows, commonly referred to as double-paned or double-glazed windows. They consist of two panes of glass separated by a space filled with air or a gas like argon. Insulation is provided by the area between the panes, which keeps your house cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Dual-paned windows also provide additional benefits such as reducing outside noise, improving energy efficiency, and blocking UV rays.
There are several reasons why the seal can fail:
Although dual-paned windows are intended to survive for many years, they occasionally experience problems. The most common reason for dual-paned windows to fail is due to seal failure. The seals around the edges of the window can weaken and break down. Often the first sign of failure is a purplish distortion that sometimes has machine marking or even handprint formations - indicating corrosion of the low-e coating on the internal surfaces of the window.
It may be that the added element of the salt air in our beach towns like Pismo Beach, CA, can quicken the decay of the window seals.
When dual-paned windows fail, moisture can seep into the space between the panes. The way the moisture appears can vary throughout the day depending on how warm the window gets.
At other times, oxygen is introduced into the window through a failed seal causing some corrosion and a tarnished look of the low-e coating.
In addition to the aesthetic issues, moisture between the panes can also cause other problems including a reduction in insulative properties.
Like a cold drink developing moisture on the outside of an otherwise dry glass, the difference in temperature between a cleaning solution and the internal surface of the glass can cause the moisture that is already between the panes of the window to condense into more visible droplets. Windows can even develop moisture patterns in the same pattern as the movements of the scrubber during the cleaning process. This is not moisture being pushed through the glass during the cleaning process, but is the condensation process as described above.
Oftentimes glass companies request the windows be professionally cleaned to be sure a hazy looking window isn’t due to a buildup of dirt and grime. A great course of action is to call reputable window cleaners like On The Spot Window Cleaning out of Grover Beach, CA. A good window cleaning company can often assess the extent of the damage and recommend the appropriate course of action.
Some companies offer a method of drilling into the windows to install vents and try to remove the moisture without replacing the windows. This type of service has varying success and can often complicate future cleanings of the windows.
A good glass installer should be able to assist with the best solution to replacing a failed dual-paned window. Many times just the glass can be replaced without replacing the entire window. Be sure to check with the manufacturer to see if your windows are under warranty.
While dual-paned windows can fail for a variety of reasons, there are steps you can take to help prevent seal failure and other issues. Your windows must be regularly maintained if you want to keep them in good shape. Here are some pointers to keep your windows in good condition:
Dual-paned windows are an excellent investment for homeowners in our wonderful community. If you're experiencing issues with your dual-paned windows, don't hesitate to contact us at On The Spot Window Cleaning. We'll be happy to assess your windows and recommend the best course of action to restore them to their former glory. With our help, you can enjoy the beautiful views of San Luis Obispo County with regular window cleaning and recommendations for when it’s time to replace a failed window.
Here is a great video from a window installer explaining window failure: What is a Window Seal Failure & What to Watch For
You want Professional Window Cleaning. We are just that: Professional Window Cleaners. With that we have vast experience and knowledge in our industry with particular focus on the Central Coast of California.
We all know knowledge is power. With that in mind, we want to empower our customers (as well as fellow professionals and DIY's) with any knowledge we can from experience and training as some of the best Window Cleaners in San Luis Obispo County. The easiest way we can do this is through video content. And what better place than YouTube to share that content?
Do you provide window cleaning? Do you dread window cleaning? Do you love window cleaning?
Here are 5 videos with tips and helpful hints:
BEST OF SLO COUNTY WINNERS!!!
Our channel is designed to build better communication between customers like you and any potential service provider you may hire (but particularly Professional Window Washers). Our hope is to help everyone gain a better understanding of how tools, processes, methods, and culture affect the customer experience for anyone interested. But we also want to make sure we all have a little fun and spread a little joy along the way.
For instance: take a look at how we count our windows in this video. Once both service provider and customer are speaking the same work specific language, confusion goes down. Click here for the video https://youtu.be/FRTKW59uBYA
What does it take to be a World Cup Of Window Cleaning Winner in London, UK? The event, the training, the technical descriptions as well as the fun, thrills and excitement will all be shared on our channel. You can learn a little more about our experience on our home page here: https://supersqueegee.com/
We have sun and surf but with that comes salt and sand. Both salt and sand can turn a magnificent view from you favorite window into a nasty mess. With our experience in these Coastal Communities we will help you maintain spectacular views. You may want to use the tips we offer on window cleaning through YouTube for yourself. You may want to use the information to get the best service from the window cleaning company you currently have. Or you may use the videos to enhance your experience with us. Whatever the case, we want your views and properties to be the jewel that you want them to be.
Do you need weekly, bi-weekly, monthly service to maintain those views? Or just the occasional window cleaning service?
Do you need to keep the salt and sand from building up? Or is your home in a more protected area?
Will windows get damaged if they are not cleaned properly on a regular basis? Or can you go for years without cleaning?
These questions and more are planned to be discussed in the videos we post on YouTube.
The Central Coast of California is not unique to the challenges of maintaining stunning views. You can use the tips and topics in our videos and adapt them to wherever you live and work. And as we mentioned earlier: our goal is to help all sorts of service providers and businesses have better communication with their customers. That's something we can all benefit from.
Our main core value for On The Spot Window Cleaning is to "Bring Joy." We want you to have the access to, and understand, details from an industry professional in a way that is easy and fun. We want the best for all involved in any interaction between trade professionals and customers. If this sounds like it will benefit you, BECOME A SUBSCRIBER! Our message gets shared to more individuals who need it when we have more subscribers.
Of course, we know won't interest everyone. And not everyone will agree with what we post. But check us out. Subscribe. Share. Comment.
You never know, a Professional Window Cleaner might just have the answer you were looking for!
Visit our channel here https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoYfaKM6mFmZwfYK0DMShAA
On the Spot kicks off the new year by traveling to Savannah Georgia! CEO and World Champion Jeremiah Hickey made an appearance at the 2020 IWCA window cleaning convention on January 20th. He made an appearance as a judge for this year’s speed window cleaning and coached several new competitors.
Along with being a judge and coach, he was invited as a guest speaker on a window cleaning panel teaching business owners how to operate their businesses safely with a focus on friendly customer service.
Jeremiah enjoyed working with this years speakers and judges, but what he appreciated most was the opportunity to talk with fellow window cleaners from around the world and gain insight on the window cleaning community as a whole.
Jeremiah was able to test out new equipment and models. There were impressive new releases from Ettore and Unger this year that will give window cleaners the edge on tougher glass. Jeremiah can’t wait to introduce these tools to the On the Spot Crew so that they can be more effective window cleaners and service providers.
Being an efficient window cleaner is a skill that can be taught… speed, however, comes from the heart. And Sam has heart. It’s been almost a year since Sam joined the exciting world of window washing with On The Spot Window Cleaning. And now, for the first time ever, Sam will be competing for the title of World’s Fastest Window Cleaner!
Jeremiah Hickey has won the International Window Cleaners Association’s national title of the Fastest Window Cleaner in America four times and has placed second in the international field. In February he will be competing once again for the World Title in nearby San Diego. https://www.iwca.org/2019-annual-convention/ This year is a little different, though. On The Spot Window Cleaning will be sending Sam Saldivar alongside Jeremiah Hickey for a chance at the title.
This is truly an international event. These are archived Facebook posts where Jeremiah has conversations with competitors from Sweden and Japan.
Jeremiah has competed in San Diego once before in 2008. That year has some particular sentiment. While the competition was commencing , one of the founders of the IWCA and the speed competition Jim Willingham, called Jeremiah from the hospital. He was suffering from a brain tumor. He wanted to wish Jeremiah the best before the final run. The two had competed against each other several times in the past. Jim was there the first time Jeremiah competed in Anaheim, CA, and had showed Jeremiah a strategy or two about the competition. Jim later passed away from his tumor and the IWCA named the subsequent events after him as the “Jim Willingham Memorial Speed Window Cleaning Competition”.
Speed window cleaning is a deep part of On The Spot Window Cleaning’s history. There have been many triumphs and great stories to go along with each event. This year we plan on adding to that heritage with another go at the title of World’s Fastest Window Washer!