Investing In Your Cleaning Business

This video is about how I have invested in my business.
🔗 You can read the article about how I started and grew my business here:
www.spinaclean.com/news/post/...
📺 See more about how I clean out gutters using hand tools here:
• Clearing Out Gutters U...
--------------------------
Quality Exterior Cleaning In Northamptonshire, and more...
🔴 Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to our KZbin channel:
/ @aemackintosh
and hit the bell 🔔 icon to receive notifications when we post a new video.
💻 To find out about our services in the Northampton area, see our website:
🔗 www.aemackintosh.com/
📈 We also provide training if you are looking to start a business or expand into other services:
www.aemackintosh-onlinetraini...
🛒 We have our own quality range of tools and accessories here:
mackintoshcleaningtools.sumup...
🎙️ Check out the AM Exterior Cleaning Podcast here:
aemackintoshpodcast.buzzsprou...
💬 And our social media channels:
📷 INSTAGRAM:
/ aemackintosh
🐦 TWITTER:
/ mackintoshclean
🙋🏻‍♂️ FACEBOOK:
/ aemackintoshclean
📝 And you can read customer reviews on our service here:
www.yell.com/biz/a-e-mackinto...

[@dacelticcross]

37 years painting and going to start pressure washing outside walls of houses,waiting for them to get washed is a pain,so I think i will do it myself😁

[@aemackintosh]

Sounds good!🤩👍🏼

[@mustafaakkoc24]

So you know about window cleaning, gutter cleaning, pressure washing and probably even more! Someone like you would never go out of business :)

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks for your comments. I’ve been doing this for a long time now and picked up a lot of experience in a wide range of jobs I suppose.😃👍🏼

[@alanloskoch1243]

Running a new operation here in the United States. Only at it for a couple months. I just wanted to drop by and let you know your channel has been instrumental in my startup. Just ordered the SkyVac Atom should get it this week. I'm super excited about my journey in the window cleaning industry. Your channel has taught me so much . Thank you Ashley for all the time you invest in all of your training . 💪💪🙏🙏

[@aemackintosh]

Alan Loskoch That’s awesome! It’s so great to think that my channel is helping people so far away. Keep up the good work and your business will soon grow.😃👍🏼

[@haroldmerewether1224]

I'm a postman I always used to slip on people's decking and patios so that's what inspired me to start.

[@aemackintosh]

That’s awesome! Keep up the good work!😃👍🏼

[@rowanlewisuk]

People love the 100 degree fan jets at 75 pressure. It sounds like a jetwash. Little things like that and wearing uniform make all the difference

[@aemackintosh]

Yes indeed.😃👍🏼

[@petebarrett2838]

Thanks Ashley.. I really enjoyed watching this video and food for thought of where I should aim my business add ons. I really appreciate your honesty. Many thanks. Pete

[@aemackintosh]

Great! I’m glad you found it useful.😃👍🏼

[@thirdeyecleaningservices2331]

Great watch! Very informative, thanks for taking time to make these videos🤟🏻

[@aemackintosh]

Third Eye Cleaning Services Thanks for your comments.😃👍🏼

[@nettoyageadriance]

Appreciate the progression of your operation. Thanks!

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks for your comments.😃👍🏼

[@matthewhall1045]

Great video. Have been thinking about starting window cleaning lately. Your videos have been a great source of information.

[@aemackintosh]

Great! Thanks!😃👍🏼

[@UKpolitoons]

This is one of the most useful videos Ive seen anyone ever make. I am rewinding it several times to pay better attention thank you

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks! I’m glad you found it useful. There is plenty more like this over on the AM Exterior Cleaning Podcast.🎙😃👍🏼

[@UKpolitoons]

@@aemackintosh Ashley I am very grateful to get your insights. I chat to Charlie Mullins a little now and then about how he did it when he started and I can see a lot of parallels with him and you in the early days, Like you he has honesty and a keen interest in helping people get started. Youre clearly a top bloke. Keep em coming, makes the world a slightly nicer place with you guys in it

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks! That’s good of you to say. I really appreciate your comments.👍🏼

[@andrewstamps2806]

Hi Ashley, thankyou for sharing parts of your story as i can relate indeed and also i feel your best video to date. Cheers for your honesty and real truths about this buisiness. All the best mate 😊🌈 Andrew

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks! I really appreciate your comments, and I’m glad you find it useful.😃👍🏼

[@KyeHortonNinjaWindowCleaning]

Great advice for adding new services. When I wanted a gutter vac I started booking in jobs without purchasing one just to see if I could sell it and make a fast ROI. Once I almost booked enough work to cover the vac I got one so it’s paid for itself rather quick. Love your videos mate.

[@aemackintosh]

Nicely done! Thanks for your comments.😃👍🏼

[@jamesevans9974]

Great advice, my first purchase was the gutter vac - but agree my window cleaning drives everything and being regular and reliable

[@aemackintosh]

Definitely. That is how you build your reputation and your business.😃👍🏼

[@jimmywoodward3609]

Fantastic video and advice Ashley! Investing and taking pride in my brand has been a big player for me too and of course a portfolio of completed jobs.

[@aemackintosh]

Great, thanks! Thanks for your comments.😃👍🏼

[@glennwilson5070]

Great video, thanks for your time making this. Practical and straightforward advice, you're a huge help. All I see around me where I live is blocked gutters and mossy roofs, I'm so tempted just use my savings and get a Skyvac and scraper and start a business on the side of my regular job.

[@aemackintosh]

Yeah, you do start noticing that sort of thing. I have to say that not everyone wants to pay to have their roofs cleaned, but there is definitely tons of potential out there for sure.😃👍🏼

[@CharlesAccountancy]

Great advice Ashley! They say it's 7 times easier to sell to existing customers, because they already know, like and trust you

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks! That’s good to know.😃👍🏼

[@ryancurrie9244]

I was doing the milk run from 14 till 16 then tryed collage with motor mechanics it never worked out so started cleaning windows with my dad. u swear best thin u have done but hard graft but being your own boss is a happy life 👌 clips are great and 💯 informative keep up the moral for us outdoors folk mate 👍

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks. I think it can take a bit of self discipline to be your own boss, but if you are naturally a good hard worker it’s great.😃👍🏼

[@petebarrett2838]

Hi Ashley. Sitting waiting for my daughter's big toe to be xrayed. So I thought arhaaa catch up on cleaning vids.. just saw your mossmatic hi mod pole and said yep got to get one. But they are so expensive. asking for around £1200 then just saw this brilliant adding to my business vid.. I think I'll wait for the WCA show if it's on this year..Ashley I thank you for your brilliant honesty and all your vids have helped my little business in okehamton grow and grow.. I've made so many mistakes buying this and that in truth had wasted thousands. Planning is really important. Including time planning.. when something breaks down or goes wrong that's your profit gone too normally.. and if you are paying staff that's a major factor to consider.. like your self I have sold most of my round to stay local.. and rely on the bread and butter window cleaning. And just base my add ons around my existing customer base .as I have had a lot of bad payers even though they are over the moon with work done . Another factor to consider. I'm about to sign up for the soft washing course just so I have a bit more confidence when things do go wrong .. 😂 thanks for all the vids Ashley your a star.. pete .

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks for your message Pete. I’m glad you find the channel helpful. Yes, I always wish I had done a bit more planning when I first started. I’m sure you will enjoy the softwash course. 😃👍🏼 I hope your daughters toe is ok!

[@jameshalleron7484]

Great advice. I am just starting out in a handyman business. I as well would like to add pressure washing. I used an electric pressure washer in the past but they have more drawbacks then pluses. I live in Florida, USA and so there is a real demand for exterior cleaning. My problem is that I am known for landscaping work so filling my truck with that type of tool is expensive. My truck is a 2001 Toyota Tundra, 8' ned with no cab. I really need a Van but cant afford the car payments. Thanks again for these videos and keep up the good work. JIMS GOT IT HOME SERVICES.

[@aemackintosh]

James Halleron Yeah, I can be tricky getting your customers to see you as an all round service. Keep going, you will get there!😃👍🏼

[@Melbourneroofresto]

Very informative always wait for your new upload Thanks alot ash

[@aemackintosh]

mobile wash services Thanks!😃👍🏼

[@david_fitzmaurice]

Window Cleaning was the first service I had too because I was dead broke. Nowadays, if I have a full day of window cleaning, I call it my poor day because the money you earn from it is quite poor compared to power washing and other services.

[@aemackintosh]

Window cleaning is a great way to start a business on a low budget, and there are some good ways you can grow it quite quickly if you offer other services.👍🏼

[@mjo_ph0tography]

You are amazing!!! Really helped me 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks. I’m glad you find it useful.😃👍🏼

[@edboi000]

Great informative stuff as usual 👍 if it wasn't for your gutter vac videos I wouldn't have made the jump to get my skyvac atom but I'm definitely seeing the rewards now. So thank you. Keep the good work 😁

[@aemackintosh]

That’s great to hear. Keep up the good work.😃👍🏼

[@faissalelfrouigi3855]

Hi that was a really helpful information really nice to hear people out there sharing ideas. God bless

[@aemackintosh]

I’m glad you find it useful.😃👍🏼

[@deathski2]

This is a great Video Ashley, I have done Wheelie Bin cleaning for 17 years now. Someone messaged me to clean their patio in March and I thought there could be something in this. So decided to look into this and learn as much as I can, you have been very helpful in this which I appreciate. Got another van to do the exterior cleaning and working my way through to upgrade my equipment as I go. But fully booked for driveways for a month now. With about 3 quotes a day coming in. I have my wife and son doing the bin cleaning now, so a real family business. I think to diversify to roofs,gutters driveways and paths is the way to go. Only thing I’m not sure about is the winter, I suspect it will slow down for driveways. I think you make some very important points about equipment and pricing of jobs. Really glad I have came across your channel. All the best Steve

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks for your message. I’m so glad you have found the channel useful. You should also check out the AM Exterior Cleaning Podcast for loads more tips and interviews. Stay in touch, I would love to hear how things go.👍🏼

[@deathski2]

@@aemackintosh Thank you, I will certainly look out the podcast. I will definitely keep in touch, it’s wonderful that you pass on experience and tips to rookies like myself. I genuinely appreciate that, it really helps going forward with the Business and can save a lot of heartache and money learning the hard way. Best wishes Steve

[@Mrmrangel]

I always find with the fascia cleaning etc people will expect you to do it for next to nothing.they don't understand the amount of graft that goes into it let alone the kit you have to buy.but then other customers are absolutely gob smacked at how amazingly clean it looks once you have finished.i love their reactions every time. I do a fair amount of pvc fascia gutter installations+roof work so that's my big money jobs and the fascia cleaning and gutter clearing are the small bits here and there.work alone so not sure I could fit any other types of work in but always curious about solar panel cleaning and driveways etc.

[@aemackintosh]

Yes, cleaning fascias and guttering from the ground is always quite a tough one on your arms too.🥵 Sounds like you have a good business going there.👍🏼

[@Mrmrangel]

@@aemackintosh yeah it certainly is haha.after cleaning a large property you Def need to rest and do something else. I offer the cleaning/clearing the following year on all my installations so I am hoping it builds up over the next few years and I could do that once I am too old to go up on scaffold 😂.

[@AMindInOverdrive]

You mentioned the gutter vac with a camera...now THAT sounds like a great setup....plus, if the tech allows...you can show the customer before and after shots! Nice ;-)

[@aemackintosh]

Yes indeed. They sell a camera to go with the Skyvac gutter vac, but I normally just use my GoPro.😃👍🏼

[@imsteveoneill]

Great video and channel very good information im enjoying watching them all. I Started helping a mate for 3 days work straight pulling on windows. 2 years on I own my own traditional window cleaning business with 200 customers I also like yourself saw the potential very quickly and offer gutter vacuuming, conservatory cleaning & roofline washes Im currently looking to invest fairly soon on a better quality gutter vac like your self with the sky vac and also getting into roof cleaning having seen the videos its a no brainer once you have a small regular window customer base. I ave toyed with the idea of taking someone else on but im not sure I want the hassle and stress of being let down a 1 man band works for me ....Keep up the good work and vids

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks! Sounds like you are doing well. I think there can be a point where you are offering too many other services. It’s not for everyone. There is a strong argument for keeping things simple. But, you work out where you can make good money and just keep doing that I suppose. I like the variety too. I hope your plans go well.😃👍🏼

[@bobdigi500]

Excellent advise. I definitely understand the problem of customers struggling to see you as more than just the window cleaner. Not a problem with customers I've had for a few years. But the customers I've had for 3 or more years expect me to do jobs for almost nothing!

[@aemackintosh]

I have found that the more professional you can make yourself look, it can make a big difference to what some people will be willing to pay.😃👍🏼

[@bobdigi500]

@@aemackintosh yes thank you. I've purchased some collared T shirts and and smart trousers this week along with equipment. I may add a logo to the T shirts later. But the T shirts alone look a bit improvement to just wearing any old t-shirt or jumper. Thanks for the videos and advise!

[@aemackintosh]

Sounds good. I hope things go well for you.😃👍🏼

[@rizla0940]

Top man as always mate 👍

[@aemackintosh]

rizla 0 Thanks!😃👍🏼

[@FlashTechEngineering]

Good video Ashley, tools are also a tax advantage.. the more tools the better.. haha I tell my wife... I mainly do commercial window cleaning that's the big easy money, property maintenance is great for residential work, but where do you stop, gutters, softwashing, pressure cleaning, mowing lawns, edge trimming, hedge trimming, chainsaw, washing cars, etc .. you couldn't keep a good size round on schedule 😂😂👍

[@aemackintosh]

That’s true, it can be a bit of a balancing act. I think I’m in danger of diversifying too much!😃👍🏼

[@Skinteastwoodmd]

Thanks for the advice mate

[@aemackintosh]

I hope it helps.😉👍🏼

[@nickdavey8684]

Great Advice top Man to Everyone in the Industry should be grateful for your advice and help to start up Business GENUINE CHANNEL WELL DONE MATE .A.&N.Cleaning Services Cornwall

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks! I try to make videos that I wish had been around to help me when I was starting out.😃👍🏼

[@nickdavey8684]

@@aemackintosh me two keep the videos up and inspire others

[@neilmoye588]

A very good video mate.

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks.😃👍🏼

[@Premier_lawns_official]

love a bit of power washing. The fact that the driveway cleans pays well is a bonus. I spent 2k on my setup and it was paid for in six weeks.

[@aemackintosh]

Awesome! That’s great! Is that because you already had regular customers who took you up on the new service you were offering?👍🏼

[@Premier_lawns_official]

@@aemackintosh yes, I hired a setup for a couple of years. I build up some client's that wanted it done every year or every other year. Hiring it taught me how to price it, cost of hire into the price Then once buying one I knew getting extras like a hose reel on the machine was a no brainer, hire shops don't have these. I find most properties we go to with the 30m reel set the machine up and never have to move it. This saves so much time. It's much easier work than cutting hedges and a lot more profitable, though costs more to get the client's. Usually do loads of driveways each summer, hardly did any this year (no advertising) Good video, any video out there that can encourage new comers to charge sensible prices is good as low prices hurts everyone

[@aemackintosh]

That’s great! I love how you tested your market first and then only spent out on equipment when you’re sure it’s going to pay back. Yes, charging a decent price is a whole subject for another video I think!🤔👍🏼

[@traceyrogers5125]

How do you go about working out the price? Is the equipment heavy to take in and out of the van?

[@Premier_lawns_official]

@@traceyrogers5125 yes you need good ramps

[@blueboxexteriorcleaningser8014]

Love your videos mate, been watching a while now One question where do you get your workwear it very smart

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks. Just some place online, it’s just called workwear.com I think.😃👍🏼

[@rickkozarits8930]

Well said Ash, I’ve took advantage of the government self employed covid grant & invested in a skyvac & evolution pressure washer 😊👍🏼

[@aemackintosh]

Sounds like a good plan!😃👍🏼

[@rickkozarits8930]

A.E.Mackintosh Cleaning Services saving up for a new van , hopefully a transporter 🤞🏻

[@aemackintosh]

😎👍🏼

[@colintalks6450]

Great video's really helpful

[@aemackintosh]

Great. I’m glad you find it useful.😃👍🏼

[@andyb4249]

Another great video Ashley. I’m having a new van mounted system fitted next week and am looking for a new wfp for everyday use. What are you currently using and what would you recommend? Cheers

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks. The Ova8 22ft is my go to pole for every day domestic work at the moment. I hope your new system goes well!😃👍🏼

[@alexmunn36]

Great video 👍🏼

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks!😃👍🏼

[@peterpiper7094]

Good informative video ☺️ maybe a regular fortnightly slot in the garage with a beer and chat about your working week ☺️

[@aemackintosh]

Love that idea! I’m already on it! Just revamping the garage a bit.😉👍🏼

[@peterpiper7094]

@@aemackintosh I do power washing too it’s interesting to hear from other guys on the job ☺️ I had one last week where I had to strip off a sealer that had been put on a drive when it was still damp 🤪the whole drive went white 😳 the poor chap had paid £900 to a traveller, needless to say he never returned to correct his mistake 😞 anyway look forward to your super videos Regards Peter

[@aemackintosh]

I did a job similar to that once. It was a crazy head ache, but you learn a lot doing something like that.😃👍🏼

[@jordanireland4746]

Main bloke in the window cleaning world

[@aemackintosh]

Jordan Ireland Thanks! You are too kind!😃👍🏼

[@mrfatnuts]

Great video thanks

[@aemackintosh]

😃👍🏼

[@ianpetrie7813]

brilliant m8 just bought my sky vac atom today

[@aemackintosh]

That’s great!😃👍🏼

[@markbloomfield3993]

Hi Ashley, another good video to watch, thank you for sharing your knowledge, I am about to start up my own exterior cleaning service, driveways, patios, walkways, guttering, conservatories and windows, yup I'm jumping in at the deep end and opening myself up to various avenues of work, my question is, when it comes to calculating the price on the work you cover, did you get quotes from other firms and then price beat to remain competitive or match roughly what other companies charged? I've never started my own business before and didn't want to sell myself short? Thanks Mark

[@aemackintosh]

I don’t compare myself to other companies and try to under cut them. I try to carry out a high quality service and charge accordingly for that professional service.😃👍🏼

[@yallawallahalla]

@@aemackintosh Good call. Very wise advice. Don’t go undercutting others just for the sake of it. People don’t only decide who they use by the price of the service. And those that do may pick the more expensive item or service as things that are priced higher are often perceived as higher quality.

[@Peteskates]

Very informative video as always Ashley👍🏻 I moved house just under a year ago, although not that far I decided to sell my old round (purely window and gutter cleaning) and had about 8 months off. I just started up again in March (2 weeks before lockdown) not had any trouble picking up work though surprisingly. But this time round I’m moving more into exterior cleaning as well, mostly roof cleaning and patio/driveway cleaning. My question is though did you start out with “cleaning services” in your business name or did you change it from “window cleaning”? Window cleaning is in my buisness name at the moment and I’m just wondering if I should think about changing it to “exterior cleaning” or “cleaning services” before I get too established, and potentially miss out on work when people just glance at my leaflets or Facebook posts and just see “window cleaning”. What would your thoughts be Ashley?

[@aemackintosh]

Good question! I want to do a video about this topic! I started out as “Window Cleaner” then changed it to “Window Cleaning” then changed it to “Cleaning Services” with the tag line “Your Local Exterior Specialist”. You have got to talk yourself up a bit. You are a specialist in your field and you should let the customer know that.😃👍🏼

[@bretteasterbrook2201]

Hi Ashley you get some great pictures of your work!! And tips? Cheers 👍

[@aemackintosh]

Brett Easterbrook Thanks! I appreciate your comments.😃👍🏼

[@bretteasterbrook2201]

@@aemackintosh do you use a stand for your photos?

[@aemackintosh]

Yeah, I’ve got a couple of really simple stands, and quite often wrap the camera round the top of a window cleaning pole.😃👍🏼

[@memoriesquotesandmusicalno3386]

Hey , just subscribed great informative channel.I am just starting out getting van WFP system etc. How is the VW caddy van serving you and your system ?

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks! I got rid of the little VW Caddy a while ago. Now I work from a VW Transporter. There is a whole playlist about it if you go directly to my channel.😃👍🏼

[@jamieanderson8171]

Great informative video, what do you do in the winter?

[@aemackintosh]

Some aspects slow down a bit in winter, like pressure washing, but my regular window cleaning and gutter clearing keeps going.😃👍🏼

[@64C10Claymore]

Hey Mate , Love the Charles Rennie influence of your signage. They Changed Our name when me Great Grand father came to the United States. We must be related some how.

[@aemackintosh]

Mark MacIntosh Hey thanks! That’s awesome! Not everyone recognises it, but I think it helps me stand out. His only work outside of Scotland is here in Northampton and there is a house you can visit. So cool.😎👍🏼

[@kentskjnnemann5629]

Great Video, good inspirations here.. Im thinking about Gutter Cleaning my self, so I will look up your Video about that subject :) But I have a One man window cleaning business, use a electric bicycle as transport :) I love to get inspirations and tips to make my day easier, I would love to see how you plan your customer, what soap you use, even what gear you use, rubber (how you cut it) lol I'm a nerd lol Anyways great stuff here :)

[@kentskjnnemann5629]

Cry, cant see you video, not viewable in my country :-(

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks for your comments. There is loads more in the playlists on my channel. I hope you can see them?😃👍🏼

[@kentskjnnemann5629]

@@aemackintosh I can :) only one is that with gutter cleaning by hand, I can't see :)

[@londonpressurewashexternal3955]

Ash great info. Thank u. May I ask. If u had to buy the wfp. Setup again. Would u go hot water system

[@aemackintosh]

London pressure wash EXTERNAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE I don’t view hot water as essential, but it’s got to be better. I know I would rather have a bucket of hot water for traditional if I can. But is it worth the expense? Would having hot water bring in more profit? I’m doubtful about that. I did lose a large commercial job to a contractor that had hot water once. So maybe it depends on the type of work you are going after?😃👍🏼

[@londonpressurewashexternal3955]

A.E.Mackintosh Cleaning Services thanks ash. As always very helpful. Wiv covid I have to add another string to my bow the pressure washing is drying up for the last 2 Swanson’s and I’m definitely thinking Windows. I’m getting to old to be stood wiv a turbo nozzle all day. I like cleaning and I often do canopy cleans wiv the washer wiv a bit of heat So I’m looking in to reinvesting I have a motto. If your going to be a bear be a grizzly

[@albertskytour6288]

Nothing compares to investing in a Toyota Hiace. Not the later ones which are a Renault, the pre 2012. I have 3. The oldest is 17 years old. Excluding tyres and batteries and a couple of windscreens, the total spend on parts for all 3? Under £150, for all 3 vans, for 16 years, 7 years, and six months of use. Old Hiaces are not cheap to buy, but there is a good reason for that. An old Hiace will last longer and be less trouble than any newer van.

[@servicelavagedevitresxavie4885]

Super vidéo !

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks!😃👍🏼

[@andrewleidner8142]

From the USA - Love your videos - have a quick question - does the sky vac camera come with it (do THEY sell it)- or does another company sell it (and you have to purchase it somewhere else)? Thanks!

[@aemackintosh]

The camera is an extra add on that you have to purchase. Spinaclean sell it also. In fact they will be doing a new camera in the new year.😃👍🏼

[@JamesDownes]

Thanks.

[@aemackintosh]

😎👍🏼

[@germanavilan7005]

Investing in business people hesitate to do it but at the same time want to get profit every time it's here where many small ones fail and missing great opportunities i got few English Customers here in Oz they telling you that the image what I'm presenting it's a good value i didn't know till they say that let me say same thing thanks to your channel inspired me a lot ...!!!! i just need a few cosmetic things it would be fine thank you i like the 'T' Maykker..

[@aemackintosh]

german avilan Thanks for your comments! I’m glad you are doing well and I’m glad my channel has helped you out. Keep up the good work!😃👍🏼

[@adamacerra1679]

do you recommend the sky vac or the sky vac atom. Much appreciated. Your videos are great. Thanks

[@aemackintosh]

The Atom is a great little vac that really packs a punch and is compact to tuck away nicely in the van. The big skyvac Industrial is big and powerful for any obstacle in its way.😃👍🏼

[@markhicks8037]

Thankyou for all your advice, I’ve just started a driveway cleaning business, how is the best way to advertise? Leaflet drops?, website?, social media? What would you advise, thankyou Ashley 😀

[@aemackintosh]

Different things will work for people in different places, so I think you really have to experiment. You could try local directories, leaflets, or online advertising can work well, including Facebook ads. I hope your plans go well. I’m glad you find my channel useful.😃👍🏼

[@neilgreen9285]

Great advise. I have just purchased the sky vac 85 have my first job with it this coming tuesday. Ive been looking at purchasing the slip stream pro 250bar can i ask why you chose the Evolution over the other, am i right in thinking you get a better deal with the evolution ive been quoted £2500 for the slip stream pro and 20 flat washer with the upgraded turbo with an added 10m hose

[@aemackintosh]

Yeah, Spinaclean do seem to charge a premium, but they do look after you well. There might be a slight difference in power output too?👍🏼

[@oliver26600]

Thx for a great and informative video , as always. I do watch a lot of your videos here from Denmark, so keep up the good work :-) One question: why don't you have any employes? I mean you could really expand your business by time with your for sure great reputation.

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks for your comments. Yeah, I’ve thought about that. I’ve tried having a few different people working for me but it hasn’t always worked that great. I think it will end up being more stress than it’s worth really. I’m waiting for my kids to start working, then maybe we can expand.😃👍🏼

[@oliver26600]

Ahh makes sense.. I suppose it's hard to find really good quality work and you have to be carefull they don't mess up your reputation. Any way thx for taking your time to answer the comment, I wish you all the best Ashley :-)

[@aemackintosh]

Exactly. Thanks.😃👍🏼

[@gh5xtak]

Hello Ashley! I've just recently started watching your videos and I've subscribed you have a great channel and I hope you all the best in the future. There's couple of things i wanted to ask, How shall i start my own home exterior maintenance service such as guttering patio cleaning front drive cleaning and other general garden work. I only started clearing my patio garden today but i used a normal jet wash which amazingly cleaned it nice and thats when I started thinking to start my own pressure patio and drive cleaning service would it be ideal for me to start small from my small pressure jet wash then gradually grow my business or start to invest into proper equipments? Please any advice would help Thanks Aqib

[@aemackintosh]

It depends on your budget I suppose. You can start a window cleaning service for very little outlay and straight away you will be gaining a reputation and a customer base that will buy other services from you. A window cleaning round will also give you regular monthly cash flow all year round. Then any other services you offer will complement what you are already doing nicely. You might also want to try listening to the AM Exterior Cleaning Podcast for tips and advice too!😉🎙👍🏼

[@gh5xtak]

@@aemackintosh thanks for the info and I'll check it out now thank you again!

[@seanocallaghan1017]

Is sky inc lol Shared on Facebook mate

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks! Dog not included.😆👍🏼

[@brodieswindowcleaning]

Another good video 👍 I am in the process of expanding my services. I have built up a window cleaning round from nothing to 370 customers in 7 months. I clean windows Monday to Thursday and keep Friday and Saturday for the bigger jobs Gutter vac's, fascia cleaning etc but I feel I dont have time to add another service or do more of the big jobs due to the window cleaning but they are my bread and butter. Can I ask how you find time to fit all the different add on's in on top of your window cleaning? I'm not ready to employ but feel a bit stuck in a rut.

[@aemackintosh]

Sounds like you have done pretty well! It’s hard to get the balance right, I’m still trying. I’ve sold off more of my window cleaning round this year to make more time for the other stuff. I always feel unsure that the extra jobs will keep coming in, but they do, more and more. So, like you say, I don’t really want to employ someone. I’ve had people working with me, and it’s nice to have the company, but I think it will just be stress to employ people. Since my regular window cleaning gets further and further behind, I now keep gradually selling it off bit by bit.😃👍🏼

[@brodieswindowcleaning]

@@aemackintosh Thanks for the reply it's appreciated. Think I will just take it slow and master what I do before adding too many extras I just can't help myself I need to be pushing and evolving or I feel like I am not progressing my business. Good luck to you and keep the videos coming 👍

[@aemackintosh]

Sounds good! It’s definitely worth taking the time to get good at one thing at a time. Keep up the good work!😃👍🏼

[@Asewitt]

You've never had a 'real' job? lucky you! they're beyond shit! I'm so happy to be window cleaning now. Currently only have 12 customers but its slowly growing, your videos have helped a lot. Thank you!

[@aemackintosh]

I’m glad you find the channel useful .😃👍🏼

[@chrisway9073]

Hi Ashley, an informative video as ever, thanks. How about looking at investment as getting profit out of your investments first (and forever) and then the challenge of gettting back what you paid for them last. Value your thoughts, expertise and wisdom. Cheers Chris.

[@chrisway9073]

BTW what happened to the oo, oo, oo AAH, AAH, AAH outro? hope it comes back!

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks! So many videos, so little time. I wish I had more time to make videos, but I have a real job too! I’m trying to get a balance of things. Thanks for your comments.😃👍🏼

[@Powershiftcleaning]

Hi Ash. I just about coming to an end of my second year pressure washing. I run it along side working as a ground worker laying driveways and patios. I too have over the last few weeks been asking my customers about gutter cleaning but one thing I’m not sure about is how to price the job. Would you have a minimum? What would you suggest charging as a minimum? Then so much a meter. Any help with this would be ideal. Also do you have any discount code for sky vac cheers Ja.

[@rackopablo7706]

£40-£60 p/h for gutter cleans, tie it in with the facias and soffits and get top money. Leave it'll sparkling they will come back year in year out for your services. Take a photo while you're up the ladder and show them that you've cleared it. I've come across some right scoundrels saying they cleared a gutter out and they've done half a job. Always keep some leaf guards for the downpipes too - £5 a downpipe it's a nice touch. Good luck, plenty of money in muck 👍

[@nzed316]

do you clean just the glass window or including the frames? thanks

[@aemackintosh]

I always include the frames.😃👍🏼

[@ianpetrie7813]

also brilliant stuff m8

[@aemackintosh]

Great, thanks. I’m glad you find it useful.😃👍🏼

[@WindowCleaningDutch]

Can u make a video about how the pressure washer machine works? and how to get the surface clean?

[@aemackintosh]

Great suggestion. I will definitely keep it in mind, but I’ve got quite a bit planned at the moment. Stay tuned!😃👍🏼

[@traceyrogers5125]

I was interested in that too. Thinking about pressure.washer services but wouldnt know where to start.

[@michaelcarbon1714]

Love your videos, i do wonder tho how do you cope with the vat threshold etc? Is this something that is hard to do?

[@aemackintosh]

I am under the VAT threshold at the moment. I know window cleaners who should lit their business into desperate businesses, maybe domestic and commercial for example.😃👍🏼

[@danielbullen5945]

Hello mate where do you get the gutter scoop from?

[@aemackintosh]

They sell it at most good window cleaning suppliers.😃👍🏼

[@travelleronmission]

What about legal aspects, like any training or qualifications and what about insurance please ?

[@aemackintosh]

Yes, you should at least have public liability insurance. There isn’t any training required by law, but there are one or two decent training courses out there.👍🏼

[@ryancurrie9244]

next video winter wear and how to stay warm safe and still make cash when its -4 . Hard task but if you have an answer for that I will literally eat yer socks 🤣 keep uptrend good work and posts 👌

[@aemackintosh]

Thanks for your comments. Yes, the middle of winter can be tough going.😬👍🏼

[@stevebriandg]

do you use generator for your vacuum?

[@aemackintosh]

I usually use the customers plug socket, but it is possible to get a generator to run a vac.👍🏼

[@kaugurid1608]

If I open business I do not need pay VAT to buy equipment ? Thanks'

[@aemackintosh]

Yes, you will still pay VAT in the UK if you are starting out in business. If your business becomes big enough that you become VAT registered, then things change slightly.😃👍🏼

[@traceyrogers5125]

What gutter vac and lressure washer have u got?

[@aemackintosh]

Tracey Rogers Check our the playlists on my channel. It’s all there.😎👍🏼

[@chrismorris8639]

Hi guys I’m just starting out it’s my first ever business I’m just seeing if anyone has any old window cleaning equipment that’s no good to you that I could buy from anyone many thanks in advance Bolton area north west

[@aemackintosh]

Hi, I don’t sell equipment very often myself, sorry. I wish you all the best with your business plans.😃👍🏼

[@garethcain9927]

Would to love to win this and set up a new business venture after working for big companies all my working life I'd love to give it a shot on my own. Great giveaway and best of luck to everyone entering. There are some people really down on their luck at the moment due to Covid hope it goes to a worthy winner !

[@aemackintosh]

Great. Thanks!😃👍🏼

[@davyg8864]

Ive been watching these videos for days now. Been looking to take the plunge into exterior cleaning, in sick of wprking for the other man, ive got a year left off tarmacing going to save save save, try get 10 grand together invest in pressure washer, gutter vac, roof cleaning etc defo not getting into debt over it. The only knowledge i have of this is what i watch on this channel and others. I am a grafter and determined but a little apprehensive of failure. Is it possible for a novice to succeed in this line of work? Im 42 and just feel i need to do something on my own

[@aemackintosh]

Yes, yes, yes. You can totally do it! Especially if you have a pro active attitude! I am running online training sessions now and I also have arranged discounts with some of the major suppliers. If you drop me an email to [e-mail] I will send you the information about the training sessions.😃👍🏼

[@davyg8864]

@@aemackintosh i was actually going to ask you if you done training session, do you not do practical ones? Such a good channel mate you really have covered a lot of information. Will send you an email. Thabks for getting back to me

[@aemackintosh]

I have sent the details across to you. Please let me know if you have any questions or you would like to chat things through.😃👍🏼

[@danivinson]

Good advice, sit down and count the cost, but you've also got to go for it! Just invested in a gvs 3600! Just need to look more professional, taken that on board, stop looking like a farmer 🤣!

[@aemackintosh]

Great! Thanks for your comments. I hope your plans go well.😃👍🏼

[@craigekins6552]

You been on the sun beds Ashley?

[@deltafit]

@Craig Ekins He works outside dude and it's currently summer, sunbeds are certainly NOT needed in our profession!

[@craigekins6552]

deltafit I know I was winding him up I used to work with him.

[@aemackintosh]

I think I might need to start using make up so the lights don’t shine off of my face so much!😜👍🏼

[@deltafit]

@@craigekins6552 thank god I was hoping you wouldn't be that dumb haha

[@bergarteric5713]

Ca marche !!! j'avais le cul qui me grattait et bien plus rien .... oh joie oh miracle ...

[@aemackintosh]

😃👍🏼

[@jayypee-jm9vu]

With the gutter vac because say your making what £100-120 for about 30 mins work has someone ever been like I’m not paying you that because you’ve only took this long and don’t understand there paying for the service? And if so I’m guessing you went to the police if they did? You know what people are like nowadays lol 😂