Fish Window Cleaning

How to Buy a Window Cleaning Franchise: 5 Things You Need to Know

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 10:20:11 -0600

If you are one of the many people who are considering ditching the corporate world to own your own business, you may want to think about a window cleaning franchise. Window cleaning franchises come with low overhead and high earning potential because you don’t need to build a brick-and-mortar building or employ a large staff to start the company.

This is obviously a large investment, and you should do your research to figure out which window cleaning franchise is the best fit for you.

Here are the five things you need to know if you are planning to buy a window cleaning franchise.

Corporate Support

One of the biggest reasons to buy a window cleaning franchise instead of starting a company on your own is the support you can expect from the corporate office. Window cleaning franchise owners receive guidance for every step of the process from purchasing equipment to marketing.

The relationship with the corporate office starts with training, which will likely begin with a visit to franchise headquarters where you will learn the basics of the corporate process. This training will continue throughout your relationship, meaning you will always have a team ready to answer questions.

The best franchisors also provide direction when it comes to optimizing a website, marketing, and creating a social media campaign that will help to establish your brand on the internet.

When you are choosing a window cleaning franchise, be sure to find a partner who will guide you through the process of starting your business while helping it grow.

What Does It Cost?

Window cleaning franchises are among the more affordable franchises because they do not require the construction of a brick-and-mortar building and can be operated from a small office space with very little overhead.

The costs for a window cleaning franchise vary but will usually include a franchise fee, equipment costs, professional license fees, lawyers’ fees, insurance costs, and more. Fish Window Cleaning franchise costs can range from $88,300 to $152,600, which includes the cost of office space and training.

Each franchise requires a minimum investment or net worth. It’s important to dig deep into the finances required to open a franchise as you do your research.

Company Culture

Company culture may play a part in helping you decide which franchise to buy. As noted, this will be a large investment, and it’s important to believe in the company you are joining. Some companies are more fast-paced and eager to bring in as many dollars as possible, while others spend more time encouraging franchise owners to create a work-life balance.

FISH franchise owners do not work nights, weekends, or holidays and we take pride in encouraging our owners and their employees to spend time away from work and with their families.

Learn About the Customer Base

Window cleaning companies have the option of focusing on either residential or commercial customers or a mixture of the two. If you are someone who enjoys interacting with homeowners and completing fewer jobs in a day, you could consider a franchise that is more focused on residential work. Commercial business may bring in more revenue due to the more frequent need for cleaning.

The FISH franchise model puts an emphasis on commercial business, with a goal of dividing the customer base between 20 percent homes and 80 percent low-rise commercial window cleaning.

Additional Revenue Streams

The best franchise opportunities include the chance for multiple revenue streams. Window cleaning companies also offer other services, like gutter cleaning, skylight cleaning, and chandelier cleaning. This can help diversify your company and increase overall revenue.

These services also introduce you to more residents and companies in the area that could be in need of some of the other things you offer.

With more than 40 years of experience, Fish Window Cleaning is prepared to guide you through the process of buying a window cleaning franchise. FISH provides support in several areas, from training to software systems to helping franchisees provide bids for jobs and recruiting employees.

To learn more about franchising opportunities with Fish Window Cleaning, visit our website and request more information today.

Window Washing Industry Outlook: 2026 & Beyond

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 10:27:51 -0600

Window Washing Industry Overview

Are you interested in a franchise opportunity that can thrive no matter the economic situation? The home services industry has long proven a popular investment for entrepreneurs seeking a recession-resilient business venture. Within home services, the window washing industry’s stable growth trajectory and adaptability make it an especially smart choice.

Let’s explore growth and trends in the window washing industry for 2025.

Important Window Cleaning Industry Statistics

To make confident business decisions, it’s essential that you have as much information as possible before investing. Looking at window cleaning industry statistics, it’s clear that choosing a franchise opportunity within the window washing industry is a promising way to meet goals and grow your business.

According to IBISWorld, the window washing industry is experiencing steady, reliable growth:

- The window washing industry was valued at $2.9 billion in 2024.
- By 2029, the window washing industry is projected to reach a value of $3.2 billion.
- For the period between 2024 and 2029, the window washing industry is projected to have a continuous annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.6%.

Window Washing Industry Trends to Watch

The future of the window washing industry is efficient, effective, and eco-friendly. Here are the trends that we predict will be dominating the industry in 2025 and beyond.

1. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Methods

More home and commercial property owners than ever are taking steps to go green in their daily lives, and they seek out cleaning companies that share their values. Many companies within the window washing industry are pivoting to greener cleaning solutions to meet that need. At FISH Window Cleaning, we use water-fed cleaning poles and purified water to clean higher up on windows, leaving a streak-free shine without soap. Other companies may use nontoxic or biodegradable cleaning products.

2. Improved Customer Service

It’s hard to think of many things that the pandemic didn’t alter, with one of the biggest changes being how consumers interact with businesses. Online contact forms and booking platforms have become the preferred method of arranging services. Window washing companies are adapting to this new way of business by enhancing their digital offerings and creating operational efficiencies with CRM software.

3. Emphasis on Safety

For many, the top reason to hire a professional window washing company is safety. Any chore that requires getting on a ladder can lead to serious injuries – in fact, about 500,000 Americans per year are treated for ladder fall-related injuries. Professional window cleaning companies like FISH Window Cleaning follow stringent safety standards that protect you, your property, and our technicians. Recent safety innovations include anchoring systems and harnesses.

Your Recession-Resilient Franchise Opportunity

The economy is unpredictable, to say the least. Although no business venture is risk-free, investing in the thriving home services industry is a recession-resilient choice. Home services brands like FISH Window Cleaning provide services that home and commercial property owners need regardless of the economy. In fact, window washing is one of the few industries that continued to grow during the pandemic. By providing an essential service, you’re putting yourself in the best possible position to build a successful business.

FISH Window Cleaning: A Leader in the Window Washing Industry

At FISH Window Cleaning, we’ve provided customers with a higher level of window cleaning services for over 45 years. That commitment to quality extends to our franchise owners as well. FISH stands out among window cleaning franchise opportunities because of our support; our franchise owners have the work-life balance they need to grow their businesses properly. And with FISH’s low investment and low overhead, the potential to build a thriving business is unmatched. Explore your opportunities with FISH Window Cleaning today! Request more information through our convenient online form.

Window Cleaning Industry Analysis: Free Market Report

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 10:34:06 -0600

At a time of increased scrutiny of cleanliness, the already promising window cleaning industry takes on added strength.

The overall cleaning services market—encompassing window cleaning and other services used by residential and commercial customers—is on track to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% by 2022, according to a report by Allied Market Research. The data evidences a consistent demand for cleaning services among commercial consumers (such as retail buildings, offices, hospitals, public buildings, etc.).

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall cleaning industry is growing at a faster rate than many other industries. The average growth in other industries is projected to be 7% from 2016 to 2026, but research puts the cleaning industry at a rate of 10% growth by 2026.

Solid, Ongoing Business

Commercial window cleaning can be especially lucrative, because a window cleaning business can develop recurring, regular work. Overall, commercial cleaning companies are the most profitable segment of the cleaning industry, capturing 55% of the market in 2019.

General cleanliness is at more of a premium, perhaps, than ever before, as businesses are now hyper-vigilant in cleaning measures as employees begin to return to the workplace. This change in protocol toward enhanced cleanliness is expected to stay.

A Low Risk Venture
A window cleaning industry analysis reveals that risk is low in the window cleaning industry, as it is a relatively recession-proof business; clean work spaces are integral to productivity, and as more people work remotely and from home, that concept bleeds into residential business. Even people who don’t work from home place more importance than ever on cleanliness at home.

The specialty segment of cleaning windows is strong, since many general cleaning services do not clean or do not adequately clean windows.

Risk can be reduced exponentially more by partnering with a franchise system rather than opening a window cleaning business from scratch. The arc toward break-even level and then profitability is much shorter than when going the independent path.

Franchise companies in the industry have invested in extensive window cleaning industry analysis and developed efficient best practices. This may include operational software as well as systems for assistance with lead generation and follow-up.

Fish Window Cleaning provides franchisees, for example, with web-based proprietary software that handles routing, scheduling, and accounting of profit and loss, accounts receivable, and more. They also provide extensive training and support, including a corporate call center to capitalize on leads.

Whether you open a franchise-branded or independent window cleaning business, you will enjoy a low-risk, profitable endeavor.

About Fish Window Cleaning
Fish Window Cleaning was founded in St. Louis in 1978 and is now the largest window cleaning franchise in the country, with over 275 locations nationwide. FISH provides service to more than 200,000 commercial and residential customers nationwide. Free estimates and customized service plans tailored to each customer’s needs and budget are just a few offered benefits.

For more information, visit www.fishwindowcleaning.com, or call 1-877-707-FISH (3474).

Top Window Cleaning Franchises for Sale in 2025

Wed, 28 May 2025 12:02:03 -0500

What to Look For in a Window Cleaning Franchise for Sale

With a market value of $2.9 billion, the window washing industry is a smart investment opportunity. Most window washing franchises have low operating costs, are simple to scale, and can easily adapt to your area’s needs. When you begin considering window cleaning franchises for sale, you’re likely to notice one thing: a lot of options. How do you know which brand is the right fit for your personal or financial goals?

Let’s explore some of the qualities you’ll find in the best window cleaning franchises for sale.

The Best Window Washing Franchises Will…

1. Provide Best-in-Class Training and Resources

Many window washing franchise owners don’t have experience in professional window cleaning or operating a business. Not to worry! A good window cleaning franchise for sale will provide the training and resources you need to open your business confidently. Most brands offer extensive business training, and those that require owners to work in the field will train you on window cleaning protocols.

Over our 40+ years in business, Fish Window Cleaning® has learned that the right place for our owners is managing their franchise location, not cleaning windows. Our new franchisee training covers everything you’ll need to know to operate your business and be a good manager. We also cover job pricing and bidding protocols.

Throughout the life of your franchise, you’ll also have access to proprietary software, marketing assistance, and our national accounts program.

2. Put Safety First

By providing services that property owners need no matter how the economy is faring, businesses within the home services industry are a recession-resilient investment.

Window washing franchises can thrive in any economic conditions for two simple reasons: first, that most home and business owners don’t have the time to clean their windows regularly, and second, that getting on a ladder makes window cleaning unsafe for most property owners. The best window washing franchises prioritize safety for crew and customers alike.

Fish Window Cleaning follows stringent safety protocols with every job. We use safety products like ladder anchoring systems and harnesses to protect our technicians, as well as our customers and their property. Since we understand that any ladder-based chore can create safety hazards for inexperienced property owners, our crews can clean most surfaces that require a ladder to reach, like gutters and ceiling fans.

3. Keep an Eye On Innovation

Professional quality window cleaning involves time-tested cleaning techniques, but the best window washing franchises know there’s always room to grow. For instance, many window cleaning companies have made their services more eco-friendly by incorporating biodegradable or nontoxic cleaning products. At FISH, we use cleaning poles fed with purified water to deliver a streak-free shine without the need for soap.

Reputable window cleaning franchises for sale also focus on customer service innovations. Today’s consumers prefer to arrange services through online forms and booking platforms. Savvy window cleaning companies like FISH have adapted to the post-pandemic way of doing business by expanding digital offerings and using CRM software to improve customer experiences.

4. Prioritize Work-Life Balance

It’s important to do work that you’re proud of, but there’s so much more to a fulfilling life. Fish Window Cleaning gets it, and that’s why our brand culture puts work-life balance front and center. Over time, we’ve found that franchisees who lead well-rounded lives have more energy and enthusiasm for the work we do together.

FISH franchise owners never work nights, weekends, or holidays. In fact, we encourage our owners to get involved in volunteer work, their community, hobbies, recreational activities, and anything else that interests them.

5. Support You Throughout the Franchise Journey

One of the biggest benefits of franchising instead of opening an independent business is that you’ll never have to go it alone. At Fish Window Cleaning, we take your success seriously. That’s why we provide the support you need to thrive at every phase of your relationship with us, from launching your first location to expanding with additional units.

You’ll also have access to other franchisees in our system. They’ve been in your shoes and are happy to share what they’ve learned along the way. With over 300 locations nationwide, that’s a lot of different perspectives – and a lot of good advice.

Franchise with Fish Window Cleaning

Fish Window Cleaning is the largest window cleaning company in America, and we’ve gotten there because we know what franchisees need to thrive. You don’t need to take our word for it: check out the latest testimonials from our franchise owners. We’re proud to help hard-working people live their dreams of business ownership, and we can’t wait to count you among them.

Request more information and get started today!

Glass Guru Franchise vs. Fish Window Cleaning: How They Compare

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 10:54:07 -0500

Glass Guru Franchise vs. Fish Window Cleaning

With a continuous annual growth rate of 1.6% projected through 2029, it’s a great time to invest in the window industry. Among other opportunities in the home services industry, window services stand out as a business venture that is low-cost to enter and easily adaptable to changing customer needs. You have a lot of choices when it comes to franchising in the window industry, including a Glass Guru franchise.

Understanding the finer points of investing in a Glass Guru franchise will help you make the right choice for your goals. Let’s look at the Glass Guru franchise and why franchising with Fish Window Cleaning ® might be a better opportunity.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Glass Guru Franchise and Fish Window Cleaning

First, some important figures. More information on the franchise costs for both Glass Guru and Fish Window Cleaning can be found under Item 7 of each brand’s franchise disclosure document (FDD).

	Glass Guru Franchise Cost	Fish Window Cleaning Cost
Franchisee Fee	$30,000 - $50,000*	$49,900 - $74,900*
Initial Investment	$126,305 - $219,530*	$106,800 - $171,500*
Net Worth Requirement	$350,000**	$150,000*
Liquid Capital Requirement	$150,000**	$100,000*
Royalty Fee	5%*	6-8%
Ad/Brand Development Fee	3%*	1%

*According to Entrepreneur

**According to Glass Guru

Learn More About Glass Guru

Glass Guru was founded in 2004. They have been franchising since 2007, with 81 units opened in the United States and Canada since then. Fish Window Cleaning has been franchising since 1978 and has opened 270 locations nationwide.

Explore how the two franchises compare.

Services Offered

Unlike other opportunities in the window industry, Glass Guru franchises do not provide window cleaning services. Instead, they focus on window repair, installation, and replacement. They’re known for their foggy window repair services, which clear away moisture from multi-pane windows without replacing them.

As the nation’s largest window cleaning company, Fish Window Cleaning focuses on commercial and residential window cleaning. Ancillary cleaning services are available for hard-to-reach areas, like gutters and awnings.

Brand Culture

At Glass Guru, franchise owners are expected to follow the brand’s values-based business model, known as the Guru Way. This model prioritizes customer service, leadership, commitment, and best practices.

Fish Window Cleaning’s business model reflects a brand culture where work-life balance is key. In addition to emphasizing best-in-class service, attention to detail, and reliability, FISH recruits for character and invests in its people. FISH franchise owners never work nights, weekends, or holidays.

Owner Responsibilities

Glass Guru franchise owners may pursue an absentee ownership model, where someone else will do the work of operating their franchise location.

To start, FISH owners will need to work full-time in the business. Over time, they can step back and share their duties with an operations manager once their business is established and successful.

Glass Guru Franchise Cost

The Glass Guru franchise cost is roughly in line with industry standards, but their net worth and liquidity requirements are on the higher end. This may make it more difficult for newer investors to qualify financially.

Fish Window Cleaning’s net worth requirement is half of Glass Guru’s, making it a more accessible investment opportunity.

Both FISH and Glass Guru offer veterans a 10% discount off of the franchise fee.

Awards and Recognitions

Entrepreneur’s annual Franchise 500 list recognizes the all-around best franchise opportunities in the country. Glass Guru is not currently ranked on the Franchise 500.

Fish Window Cleaning is consistently ranked on the Franchise 500, coming in at #222 for 2025.

Your Franchise Opportunity with Fish Window Cleaning

Once you’ve considered each factor, it’s clear that Fish Window Cleaning is the right window industry investment. Unlike Glass Guru, which provides niche services that may be hard to scale, FISH delivers services that every home and business owner needs – and nobody does it better. We know what it takes to build a successful franchise.

Our commitment to service extends beyond our customers to every member of our franchise system. FISH isn’t just an outstanding investment; it’s an even better place to work. Experience the FISH difference for yourself! Request more information today to get started.

Window Cleaning Business Supplies: 8 Must-Haves to Start Your Own Business

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 10:32:35 -0600

Window Cleaning Business Supplies

Among business opportunities within the thriving home services industry, the professional window cleaning industry stands out as a particularly good investment. Window cleaning is experiencing stable growth, with a continuous annual growth rate of 1.6% expected through 2029 and a valuation of $2.9 billion for 2024. Its capacity for adapting to consumer needs and remaining successful throughout challenging economic times puts entrepreneurs in the right position to build a lasting business.

Interested in getting into professional window cleaning? You’ll need to start with acquiring the right window cleaning business supplies. Explore the eight most essential supplies needed for a window cleaning business below.

8 Essential Supplies Needed for a Window Cleaning Business

1. Squeegee

No item in a window cleaner’s toolkit is more important than a high quality squeegee. These t-shaped tools have rubber blades and help window cleaners remove cleaning solution and dirt from windows without leaving streaks. Of all your window cleaning business supplies, this is something you need to have on day one!

2. Water-Fed Pole

In order to give even the tallest windows a streak-free clean, professional window cleaners will use water-fed extension poles. They are long, extendable poles with a brush head and an internal pump that dispenses water on demand. When you’re in the market for a water-fed pole, you’ll want to think about your budget, the kinds of buildings you plan to clean, and how often you plan to use it.

3. T-Bar and Sleeves

Another key tool in your window cleaning kit is the T-bar, which can be customized for your purposes with many different sleeves. You might like to think of sleeves as mops for cleaning windows. They’re made of microfiber and come in different levels of abrasiveness, allowing you to scrub away dirt and other problem areas. When choosing sleeves, consider how much water it holds. Sleeves that are more absorbent will let you work longer without having to re-dip the T-bar.

4. Belts and Holsters

A sturdy belt and holsters can carry a lot of your commercial window cleaning supplies. Ideally, your holsters can hold dry towels, spray bottles, steel wool, your mop, and a few small squeegees. This not only gives you easy access to anything you might need; it will also keep your equipment clean and dry while you work.

5. Cleaning Solution

Believe it or not, the cleaning solution you choose goes a long way toward making your job easier. If eco-friendly cleaning solutions are a priority for you, there are more efficient green options on the market than ever before. For tried and true methods, many pros say that dishwashing liquid makes an excellent glass cleaner!

6. Buckets

As you’re building your window cleaning kit, don’t overlook the basics. Buckets are among the most vital window cleaning business supplies. You’ll want to keep more than one on hand so that you always have clean water nearby. Empty buckets are also helpful to keep your other supplies clean and dry.

7. Towels

Every veteran window washer will tell you how valuable a simple towel can be. Be sure to invest in several microfiber towels, which can be used for everything from drying supplies to cleaning small window corners.

8. A Sturdy Ladder

Although your water-fed pole will be able to reach nearly all windows, you’ll still need a ladder from time to time. Professional window cleaners should always have one or two sturdy ladders in their truck. Given the safety risks involved, ladders are not a place to cut costs. Do thorough research to ensure you’re getting the right – and safest – ladder for your purposes.

Simplify Your Business by Franchising

Choosing to open a window cleaning franchise instead of an independent business eliminates nearly all the guesswork involved in getting your business off the ground. At FISH Window Cleaning, we’ve been in the franchise space for over 40 years, and we know what business owners need to thrive. Our team will provide all the training, resources, and support you expect from an industry leader – including guidance on which gear to buy! FISH provides franchisees with a turnkey model that makes business ownership simple and gives them the time they need to focus on what really matters.

Make your mark in the window cleaning industry as a FISH Window Cleaning franchisee. Request more information to get started today.