But what`s struck me, is the number of windows that I would still need a ladder to clean.
.... I`ve been doing all terraced houses with one upstairs window at front and two at the back, which are above a roof. So I would probably only need the pole/water for one front upstairs window.
I also have a lot more like this, not to mention houses with locked gates that couldn`t be done with wfp.
Gerry,
I've shortened your post in my quote; I hope you don't mind.
Firstly, you'd be surprised at how many windows you can clean above the extentions of small terraced houses. Some you can clean from the rear of the extention if it's not too deep. Others from one side and others you can clean from the neighbors side. So These may not pose a problem.
I have some streets exactly as you describe; fronts easy with WFP; rear difficult; and I still have to take one section of my ladders (not both) to get onto the flat roof on a few of them. I WFP the lot, then at the end run round with my single ladder. It's still extremely worthwhile; speed wise.
Also with regards to locked gates, I used to 'ladder-hop' these. But now I generally just use brute strength and ignorance and haul my body over them. I should really take the time to ask my customers their phone numbers (in the few instances I don't have the digits); phone them the evening prior to arriving and ask them to leave them open.
I do with some. Others have left me keys hidden in their garden. One was so well hidden I couldn't ruddy find it, although the customer told me it was hidden between her gas meter and her gate!
If the gates are padlocked; I miss them. It's not worth the hassle when you could be onto your next account.
I hope I've been some help.
