Category: Blog

Today Spick & Span window cleaners cleaned a 6 bedroom Edwardian house in Herne hill. Although it was raining lightly throughout the day we were able to bring up the windows to a very high sparkle, using both the water fed pole method as well as ladder and squeegee techniques.

Today Spick & Span window cleaning cleaned the front and back of victorian mid terrace in East Dulwich. The property had a dormer loft extention to the rear which we were able to reach using a waterfed pole.

Today Spick & Span window cleaners went down  to Sydenham Hill SE21 close to Dulwich Village to clean the windows of a 5 bedroom detached home set in a private road.

The homeowner contacted Spick & Span window cleaners after visiting the East Dulwich Forum and seeing a positive recommendation placed on there. Her previous window cleaner for some unknown reason had vanished without giving any notice.

Spick & Span arrive at the location in SE21 in good time and well equipped to clean the double glazed windows and uPvc frames of a very large 1960’s type property. This property in SE21 had lots of glass within it many of which were very large paned. For instance there was two sets of rather large patio doors with floor-to-ceiling glass that required cleaning as well as a glass porch and glazed front door area. Architects had really designed the house to allow plenty of light to enter this building.

Spick & Span used a method of window cleaning that suited this style of building, which had many windows, by employing the reach and wash method, a ladder less form of cleaning that uses purified water to clean window. Because this method of cleaning was employed to time to clean the windows was greatly reduced and an additional benefit was that the many Upvc window frames could be cleaned at no added cost to the client.

In some areas window had to be cleaned more than once to ensure that the detergent that was use by the previous window cleaner had been completely rinsed away from the rubber seals within the double glazed glass, which leaves spots when dry when using purified water cleaning.

The client on a couple of occasions came out to inspect what was taking place, as this cleaning method had never been seen by her before, but she was very impressed with the health and safety factor, with the window cleaner having both feet on the ground at all times as she expressed that ladders were dangerous.

After the window cleaner had completed the work at this location in Sydenham Hill he asked the client to inspect the work to make sure that she was entirely satisfied with the window cleaning. This is a comment that she later placed on the East Dulwich Forum:

“Mark  of Spick & Span window cleaning services  is the best cleaner I have ever had – routinely cleaning the frames as well as windows. The windows are sparkling, plus he’s a charming and helpful worker. Highly recommended!”

Today Spick & Span window cleaners  cleaned the windows of  a three bedroom one bathroom Victorian mid terrace home, local to their area in  Camberwell SE5. Spick & Span window cleaners , local to Camberwell took just a few minutes to arrive at the house from where they are based in Camberwell where they were met by a young couple.

The young family who had just recently moved into the period property in Camberwell  SE5 were very desperate for a window cleaner, and for all the windows of the house be cleaned internally and externally. The windows of their new home had been badly neglected  by the previous occupants, who rarely if ever had their windows cleaned, and so they required professional window cleaners to come down to the house in Camberwell to give them a very thorough and rigorous cleaning.

The homeowners had had recent renovation and building work  carried out at the property and because of this there was a lot of thick dust on the windows, and also paint marks which needed scraping off, which was done without damaging the glass.The windows were black and restricted needed light from entering inside the home, Spick & Span attended to this by using a strong cleaning detergent window cleaning scrubber and squeegee .

In addition to the house windows that were cleaned internally and externally, Spick & Span window cleaners also cleaned a sun room at the rear of the property that has green algae growing on top. This algae  was removed by Spick & Span window cleaner, who used a ladder to reach the lean-to roof and window cleaning scrubbers . The total amount of time spent at the job was about three hours. After completion of the work the homeowner said  “It’s so nice to be able to see through the windows again!”

Today Spick & Span window cleaners went down to Brixton Hill, to what is a very busy thoroughfare of London, to help freshen up the internal and external appearance of a two bedroom Art- Deco flat, by cleaning the properties windows on both the inside and the outside.

Because this properties was located on such a busy thoroughfare  on a major artery of London the windows of the home in this SW2 postal area of Brixton needed rigorous window cleaning.The windows of this two bedroom Art-Deco flat had been badly neglected over the years and were in a very poor and dirty condition.Thousands of vehicles including buses travel up this busy street in Brixton, which no doubt accounts for why there was thick dust and soot laced over the glass and frames of the windows , making the outlook of the property misty in the extreme.The occupant of the home had never managed in the many years that she lived in the property to clean the windows herself or find window cleaners local to her area, which was why the windows were in such a poor and neglected state. She came across Spick & Span window cleaners after being referred by a local community forum and she was delighted  to learn that Spick & Span window cleaners are professional window cleaners local to Brixton,  being based just a 10 minute drive or so from her home.

Within a short time of being at the property the homeowner commented on  the efficiency and professionalism in which Spick & Span attended to the window cleaning. All the windows of the property were cleaned internally and externally as was a communal window.

Span and Span cleaned the windows with a strong window cleaning solution added to water, a window cleaning pad and squeegee and used a scrim to detail the windows making sure that no water marks were left. Within the front room the two windows there also had secondary glazing panes, which also needed cleaning. All windows were cleaned from inside the flat as there were very busy shops below making window cleaning from a ladder both impractical and dangerous from a health and safety standpoint.Although the cleaning of this property required very rigorous and thorough cleaning the diligent efforts of the window cleaners were rewarded when the  happy resident said at the conclusion of a later conversation with staff members:  “My windows look lovely, I am fully appreciating all the autumn colours through them!”

It is common knowledge that sunlight effects our mood. SAD syndrome, and the like, have become familiar household terms to many . In lands where there is regular sunshine people tend to be happier, whereas in lands that have less daylight and sunshine, depression runs high, even suicide.

Could this well researched and now scientifically proven fact be of any interest to window cleaners and homeowners ?Well up until recently, I thought very little about the subject until I received and email from a very satisfied client who said “that it was great to live with clean windows!” I began to think about this statement  and then to think of the reactions of many of my clients, who often exclaim how nice it is to be able to see outside again and to enjoy the view into the world outside.

There is no doubt that dirt on windows does restrict nautral light from entering into a prperty and that when a window is dirty there is an increase of shadows. This leaves the occupant of the home regularly in an environment that is light deprived and dull .Clean translucent glass, that window cleaning causes maximizes the suns rays that enter the living space enhancing the properties feel and ambience.

According to a study by researchers at the University of Michigan, U.S.A., employees with a window view perform better. Contrary to popular belief, having a view does not necessarily encourage daydreaming. The magazine Business Week reports that a 1,200-person survey revealed that “workers with views of the outside world show more enthusiasm for their jobs, less frustration, more patience, better concentration, and fewer physical ailments.” In contrast, workers in windowless cubicles are likely to be “less imaginative and more irritable” and have more problems with concentration.

Windows that are dirty could negate the potential benefits that windows serve increasing enthusiasm and  a well-being.

If the above hypothesis is true then  window cleaners are not merely “window cleaners” but “Mood Doctors” bringing a sense of well-being and brightening up the lives of the clients they serve, changing outlooks literally, and metaphysically.

There is no denying the fact that when a person has their windows cleaned they almost always comment on the immediate difference they notice.

Could it be that there is a link between clean windows and good health?

For a free no obligation quote call 0745  649 5516

It’s likely that this week someone in Britain will die from an accident with a ladder, and more than a hundred will be injured. Most of these accidents occur during household maintenance and DIY, by following some advice many of these risks can be cut down or even avoided. Here are a few examples.

Before you start you should ask yourself:

“Am I up to the task?”

If you are in any doubt at all it is better to seek professional help.

“Is the ladder up to the task?”

It may be that for the type of work that you are considering that scaffolding or other access equipment will be better suited to the task at hand.

To avoid many common accidents make sure that you :

1. Get the correct ladder.

It is important that the ladder that you use is the right height for the job If the ladder is too short you will have to overstretch, if too long then you might have to put it at a dangerous angle. .The ladder that you use should meet the required British standards: BS 2037 (Aluminium) BS 1129 (Wood). All ladders have a load capacity.Make sure that your weight plus that of the tools does not exceed the limit of the ladder you are to use.

2. Inspect your ladder carefully.

Do not use a ladder that is rickety or damaged, if you notice that this is the case do not attempt to repair it have it destroyed.Wooden ladders contract in the cold and expand in the heat, so check that the rungs are still firmly riveted, and have not rotten, also look out for any cracks. Check the screws that fasten the rungs on metal ladders as well as the rungs themselves to see that they are fastened and have not been damaged by rust. Carry out any repair work and make replacements as soon as they are noticed. Before each use of the ladders remove dirt that may have accumulated in the l grooves.

3. Position the ladder correctly.

Place your ladder on a level, solid surface.The ladder should never lean sideways but should be placed at an angle of 75 degrees from the floor.

4. Provide support at the top and at the base.

Be careful where you put the top of the ladder. Make sure that the top surface against which the ladder rests is stable and nonslip. Never rest the ladder on glass or plastic such as guttering. When possible, tie it securely to a fixture, with the top rising about 1m above the top point of the landing.Take particular care that when you initially climb the ladder, you tie it at the top.If the ground slopes away from the building, place something heavy like a sand bag at the base of the ladder or tie a lower to a fixture. If the ground is uneven but solid, use a wedge to get a level base. Provide wooden board to make a firm base if the ground is soft or of loose material.If you use a stepladder make sure that all four steps are firmly on the ground.

5. Check your shoes.

Flat shoe are appropriate footwear for climbing ladders. Before you climb make sure that the sole of your shoes are dry. Remove anything like mud that might make you slip.

6. Carry things carefully.

If possible carry tools in a holder that is attached to a belt so as to leave hands free for climbing.Be deliberate and methodical, and do not rush. Remember that even a small screw driver can cause injury when dropped from height.

7. Check your state of health.

Do not climb if you are on medication, feel sick or nauseated or if you suffer from vertigo.

8. Be considerate of others.

If you are working in a public place, make the ladder easily visible, and if you have to move a ladder around a corner, be aware that others will not be expecting this. Shout a friendly warning, and check to see if the way is clear.If you have to go away and you have been unable to tie the ladder securely, get someone to stand guard, or lay the ladder down safely until you return.

9. Climb safely.

Always face the ladder when ascending or descending. When on the ladder avoid overreaching by making sure that your belt buckle (navel) stays within the stiles and keep both feet on the same rungs throughout the task.Always have three points of contact with the ladder two feet one hand.Never climb a ladder in strong winds. Do not stand or sit on the top three rungs of  ladder.

10. Do not overstretch.

When you extend your arms and legs while working up high, you may make the ladder unstable. Avoid dangerous overreaching. Move the ladder often to keep it close to your work.

Today Spick & Span went down to the millennium village in Greenwich SE10., and cleaned the windows of a Luxurious 9^th floor Penthouse flat. The Penthouse, that was high-up on the 9th floor of this smart apartment block. consisted of  an office space as well as two bedrooms. a kitchen,and balcony area.

The owner of this property had had many problems with the window cleaning of this property. He had attempted to clean the windows himself without success, and had been refused by a number of professional window cleaning companies in the area .Eventually the homeowner came across Spick & Span window cleaners through the internet.

This proved to be one of the most complex window cleaning jobs that Spick & Span have ever encountered.The  reason for this is that the ceilings of this building were very high, and a long ladder could not be transported in the lift.The windows within the main living and office area were floor-to ceiling glazed panels,approximately 14ft. , with a mezzanine floor. The high windows had  wooden intersections separating many of the panes at the top of the room making cleaning very awkward. These very tall windows had to be cleaned on the outside also. But the very narrow balcony outside the room had a metal grated floor, which meant that a water-fed pole could not used, because water would leak through the grating  to the apartments below. The only method that could used to clean the windows of this building in Greenwich was traditional window cleaning methods. Clearly  the buildings architect had not taken into the consideration some of the difficulties that would be encountered in cleaning these windows. By employing a 3.5m. telescopic window cleaning pole Spick & Span were able to clean the windows to a good standard.

The compensation that Spick & Span received for this extremely difficult window cleaning Job in Greenwich was the delight and relief it brought to the resident of this apartment to and the satisfaction he showed in having clean windows ,also from this height the view of the river Thames was simply breath-taking! The boats that sailed along it looked the size of match boxes. In the nearby distance the Canary Wharf tower could be seen as could the stadia that are being prepared for the Olympic games which are to be held in London in 2012.This reminds us of why being a window cleaner in south east London, although can     be a challenge at times can also be so much fun!

Today Spick & Span’s window cleaning services were required in the Camberwell Grove conservation area to clean a five bedroom period property.The end of terrace house, situated near the historic ‘Queens Row’ section of Grove Lane, a tree lined street in Camberwell, dates to the late Georgian period and required a specialist window cleaning company that could meet the cleaning demands that would be entailed in cleaning the windows  of this very tall building in SE5. The listed townhouse in Camberwell had three storeys as well as a basemen, all of which had multi-paned windows, were cleaned both on the inside and the outside by Spick & Span, window cleaners local to Camberwell SE5. area of London.

Spick & Span were informed by the properties that  are early risers and so arrangements were made at the time of this booking for Spick & Span  clean  the windows of the property in Camberwell bright and early. Spick & Span window cleaners based in Camberwell could easily meet this request as the are local window cleaners, and arrived promptly in the morning to begin work. The work began on the outside of the house, where the outlook from inside the property had become dull  due to dust deposits and thick grime. While the owners took breakfast Spick & Span cleaned all external windows  at the front of the house using a high reaching water-fed pole, which uses purified water to attract dirt away from windows. This method of cleaning was very suitable to the Georgian windows and enabled all the windows ,including ones  that had been inaccessible to previous window cleaners used by the owners.The results of the cleaning were instantly noticeable as as dirty water ran down from the glass leaving the clear and translucent once more. This same method of cleaning was repeated at rear of the building. At the rear of the home, a burst water pipe had left greasy remains on a kitchen window, this had to be thoroughly scrubbed to aggravate this deeply ingrained , but the results were worth the effort as views into the garden were made clear again from the kitchen sink within the home. Extra care was taken while cleaning with water and tools within the home to insure that no damage was caused to antique furniture and tapestries within the home.

Arrangements were made with the properties owner that Spick & Span provide a regular window cleaning services to maintain the property so that it continues to make a strong visual statement and to help the homeowners maintain the lifestyle that they want to achieve. Living in this historic and picturesque part of Camberwell.

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