Window Cleaner Course

Lesson 1 • Overview of the Window Cleaning Trade

Covers the scope of residential, commercial, and industrial window cleaning markets. Sets context for all subsequent technical and business content in the course.

Lesson 2 • Professional Standards and Work Ethics

Defines professionalism, punctuality, appearance, and client communication norms. Establishes the behavioural baseline expected throughout the course.

Lesson 3 • Understanding Glass and Window Types

Identifies common glass types, frame materials, and window configurations encountered on the job. Builds material literacy needed for selecting correct cleaning methods.

Lesson 1 • Water Quality and Purification Systems

Covers the impact of mineral content on glass finish and the use of purified water systems. Prepares students for pure water cleaning techniques introduced in later chapters.

Lesson 2 • Hand Tools and Their Functions

Covers squeegees, scrubbers, scrapers, and detailing tools used in daily window cleaning. Students learn the purpose and correct grip for each hand tool.

Lesson 3 • Cleaning Solutions and Chemical Safety

Explains detergent chemistry, dilution ratios, and safe handling of cleaning chemicals. Students match solution type to glass condition and environmental requirements.

Lesson 4 • Equipment Maintenance and Storage

Teaches inspection routines, rubber replacement, and proper storage of all cleaning tools. Prevents equipment failure and extends the service life of professional gear.

Lesson 1 • Manual Handling and Ergonomics

Covers safe lifting, carrying, and repetitive-motion injury prevention for window cleaners. Reduces long-term musculoskeletal injury risk through correct body mechanics.

Lesson 2 • Emergency Procedures and First Aid

Prepares students to respond to falls, chemical exposure, and other on-site emergencies. Covers first aid basics and incident reporting requirements.

Lesson 3 • Risk Assessment and Method Statements

Teaches how to complete a site-specific risk assessment and write a method statement. Documents produced here are required before any elevated or commercial job.

Lesson 4 • Personal Protective Equipment

Identifies required PPE for various window cleaning tasks and explains correct usage. Students select appropriate PPE based on the hazards identified in their assessments.

Lesson 1 • Rope Access and Suspended Platforms

Provides an introductory overview of rope access and cradle systems used on high-rise buildings. Students understand certification requirements and when to subcontract specialist work.

Lesson 2 • Ladder Safety and Selection

Covers ladder types, load ratings, and correct setup angles for window cleaning access. Students apply pre-use inspection and safe positioning before ascending.

Lesson 3 • Scaffold and Platform Systems

Introduces mobile scaffolding, tower scaffolds, and work platforms for multi-story access. Students understand erection, inspection, and safe use requirements.

Lesson 4 • Water-Fed Pole Ground-Level Access

Explains how pure water pole systems eliminate the need for elevated access on many jobs. Students recognise when ground-level pole work is the preferred safe method.

Lesson 1 • Squeegee Technique: Straight Pull

Introduces the straight-pull squeegee method for large flat panes and commercial glass. Students practice consistent angle, pressure, and rubber contact for clean results.

Lesson 2 • Wetting and Scrubbing the Glass

Teaches correct scrubber loading, solution application, and agitation to loosen dirt. Proper wetting is the foundation of every streak-free cleaning result.

Lesson 3 • Detailing and Finishing Glass

Teaches edge detailing, frame wiping, and final inspection to achieve a professional finish. Detailing separates competent cleaners from truly professional results.

Lesson 4 • Cleaning Interior Glass Surfaces

Adapts outdoor techniques for interior glass, including mirrors, partitions, and display cases. Students manage drip control and client property protection indoors.

Lesson 1 • Water-Fed Pole Operation

Covers brush head selection, flow rate control, and pole handling for upper-story windows. Students practice systematic scrubbing and rinsing patterns from ground level.

Lesson 2 • Troubleshooting Pure Water Results

Identifies causes of spotting, streaking, and residue when using pure water systems. Students diagnose and correct equipment or technique faults on the job.

Lesson 3 • Purification System Operation

Teaches operation of deionisation vessels, reverse osmosis units, and inline TDS monitoring. Students produce and verify water quality before starting each job.

Lesson 4 • Pure Water Cleaning Principles

Explains why purified water dries spot-free and how it differs from traditional detergent methods. Establishes the scientific basis for all water-fed pole work.

Lesson 1 • Solar Panel and High-Value Surface Cleaning

Introduces cleaning protocols for solar panels and other high-value glass installations. Students follow manufacturer guidelines and document work to protect client warranties.

Lesson 2 • Paint, Adhesive, and Construction Debris

Teaches safe removal of paint overspray, adhesive residue, and post-construction contamination. Students use scrapers and solvents without scratching or damaging glass.

Lesson 3 • Conservatory and Roof Glass Cleaning

Covers the unique access, safety, and cleaning challenges of conservatory roofs and skylights. Students apply water-fed pole and specialist brush techniques for overhead glass.

Lesson 4 • Cleaning Textured and Coated Glass

Addresses frosted, tinted, self-cleaning, and low-emissivity coated glass surfaces. Students adapt methods to avoid voiding manufacturer warranties or damaging coatings.

Lesson 1 • Pricing and Quoting Jobs

Teaches cost calculation, profit margin setting, and professional quote presentation. Students produce accurate quotes that cover costs and reflect market rates.

Lesson 2 • Invoicing, Payments, and Record-Keeping

Covers professional invoicing, payment collection methods, and basic financial records. Students establish simple systems to track income and outstanding payments.

Lesson 3 • Scheduling and Route Planning

Covers efficient route design, recurring appointment scheduling, and time management. Students build a weekly schedule that maximises productive cleaning time.

Lesson 4 • Growing and Scaling the Business

Introduces strategies for adding services, hiring staff, and expanding a client base. Students identify growth opportunities aligned with their skills and resources.