At DL Clean Windows, we are often asked why we use long poles and purified water rather than the traditional ladder and squeegee. To answer that, we have to look at how our industry has evolved to provide a better, safer service for homes across Exeter and East Devon.

The Early Days: The Squeegee Revolution

Before the 1930s, window cleaning was a laborious task involving heavy ladders and basic cloths. The first major "tech" jump happened in 1936, when Ettore Steccone invented the modern T-shaped brass squeegee. It changed the game, but it still required window cleaners to spend their entire day balanced on ladders—a practice that was both physically exhausting and inherently risky.

The 1950s: The First "Tucker" Poles

The "Water Fed Pole" (WFP) isn't as new as many people think! The first version was developed in the 1950s by Tucker Manufacturing in the USA. These early poles were made of heavy aluminium. While they allowed cleaners to reach higher, they were cumbersome and difficult to use for long periods.

It wasn't until the 1980s and 90s that materials like glass fibre and carbon fibre became available. These lightweight materials allowed us to reach windows up to 60ft high (and beyond) while standing safely on the ground.

The Magic of Purified Water

The real "secret sauce" of modern cleaning is the water itself.

• The Problem: Traditional tap water is full of minerals (like calcium and magnesium). If you spray tap water on a window and let it dry, those minerals stay behind, creating white spots and streaks.

   

• The Solution: We use a process called Deionisation or Reverse Osmosis. By stripping the water of all impurities, we create "hungry" water. This pure water actively attracts dirt, lifts it from the glass, and—because there are no minerals left—dries to a crystal-clear, spot-free finish every time.

   

Safety First: Why We Stay on the Ground

In the UK, the Work at Height Regulations (2005) changed everything. These regulations state that ladders should only be used when a more suitable (safer) piece of equipment is not justified.

A Note on Safety: While there isn't a strict law requiring a second person to "foot" a ladder for every job, the HSE strongly recommends that ladders only be used for low-risk, short-duration work. By using Water Fed Poles, DL Clean removes the risk of falls entirely, ensuring we protect both our staff and your property.

 

Environmental Benefits

The shift toward WFP systems is also a win for the environment. Because purified water is such an effective cleaner on its own, we have significantly reduced our reliance on harsh chemical detergents. This is better for your garden, your pets, and the local Devon ecosystem.

The Modern Landscape in Exeter & East Devon

Today, Water Fed Pole cleaning is the industry standard in the UK. At DL Clean, we combine this rich history of innovation with local, friendly service. We aren't just cleaning windows; we’re using decades of technological advancement to ensure your home stays brighter and safer.