Window cleaning has very much moved forward with the times and is now pretty much unrecognisable compared to when I first started window cleaning in 1993. The rise in popularity of WFP window cleaning has gathered momentum so much so that Automated pure water stations are appearing all over the UK, a huge benefit to us as a company in so many ways. No more sending Reach and Wash Systems and Lads all over the UK to work and trying to find digs which will allow us to process our own DE-I water. No more trailing hoses out of Hotel windows and plant rooms. Fuel costs slashed not hauling water excess distances.
Water, water, everywhere - but not like this!
6th May 2026
Isis Facility Services are investing again. We were one of the first window cleaning companies in the UK and certainly in the North East of England to invest in not one but two 1000 Litre Truck Mount Reach and Wash Systems from Ionic Systems, then known as “OTT” Over The Top Ltd. OTT’s trail blazing innovation inspired by a visit to California USA by the founding Chairman Craig Mawlem. Since the turn of the century we have been using and learning all about the production of pure, de-ionised water for window cleaning purposes for use on our clients sites.
I am not going to wax lyrical over the obvious benefits of using De-I water or the science of ion exchange during the water filtration process on our Brand New 5000 Litre Processing System which is going to be based at our HQ in Cramlington, South East Northumberland. I think most people reading this article will already be relatively well informed of what there is to know. The key fact to remember is that every drop of water purchased from us is 000 ppm High Grade DE-I pure water fit for cleaning windows. The very same water which our window cleaners use every day servicing our clients across the North East. You can’t ask for a better endorsement than that in my opinion.
The increased access and availability to pure water stations has been an excellent addition to the window cleaning world. Thinking back to 1993 one of the attractions of window cleaning as a professional business was based on the fact that it was a very low cost entry level business, all that was required in my experience was a little Suzuki Rascal van, 4m set of ladders, bucket, scrim, mop and blade. Pocket full of flyers and a commitment to reliability, quality, honesty and respect for our clients and their property of course, was all that was required. I think I was up and running for a couple of grand tops. However, with the advancement of the Reach and Wash System brought far higher start up costs for many and put a career in window cleaning out of most people’s reach, which is such a shame. If I remember correctly a 1000L truck mount reach and wash system back then was around the £9K mark and around £15K for a new Renault Master MM van. We recently renewed 8 of our systems, I believe the final cost of a 1000 Lt Delivery unit with a full suite of poles in a brand new van….there wasn’t much change out of £55k.
The sustainability of the National network of spotless water stations still remains to be seen, they are certainly expanding at pace and I wish them every success ongoing, I truly do. The benefits they have brought to the business is immense but another great side effect, if not the biggest effect of all is, they have made window cleaning affordable as a start up entry business again. It is great to see lads investing in delivery trolleys and residential 30ft WFPs combined with portable drums, loaded up in the back of your car and you are on the road.
It is with all of the above in mind, we have decided to Invest and open our doors to the window cleaners of South East Northumberland. We are not currently served by a Spotless Water station, the nearest stations to us being in Whitley Bay, Newcastle and Gateshead, quite a long and expensive trip for many. Especially in window cleaning where time is money. We have decided not to have an automated station, you will be served by one of our team as a valued customer. We have not set our prices yet - however we will certainly be cheaper than the competition and with the added Isis value.
We hope to be up, running and open for business in July 2026 - initially selling water. Once we've developed a loyal customer base and we get to know everyone’s needs and requirements, we aim to open a trade counter, selling window cleaning supplies. Everything from squeegee rubber to start up WFP kits and scrim cloth, maybe even a coffee machine! I have very high hopes for this new venture, and I hope to be able to share our experience to date with other local window cleaners. To give friendly advice on equipment, health and safety and good general industry knowledge, which in turn I hope, will help and assist local window cleaners make their window cleaning business grow and become more efficient and profitable.
I also understand, DE-I water is used by Tropical and Marine fish enthusiasts and car valets committed to the very best finish for their customers. If you are either and have a need for pure water DE-I water our doors will be open to you also, so please come and pay us a visit.