Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

Isabella Noyes

Published 3 hours ago: April 21, 2023 at 10:43 am

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Ecovacs are going above and beyond robot vacuums with the Australian release of its new robotic window cleaner, the Winbot W1 Pro. While I have to say Im not a fan of cleaning in general (who is?!), there is one particular task I look at with venom when the time arises, and thats cleaning my windows.

The Winbot W1 Pro was introduced after Ecovacs surveyed its customers and found that 53% of Australians spent more time on household chores than theyd like. Unsurprisingly, robot vacuums have contributed greatly in terms of reducing the mental load the average person dedicates towards cleaning, but little has been done in regards to other household chores. (If someone could create a device that will scrub my bathtub for me, I would be most grateful.)

As a result, the Winbot W1 Pro was designed to let its owners sit back, relax and enjoy the view. To get the job done, the Ecovacs Winbot features a suctioning power of 2,800Pa, dual direction cross auto-spray, edge detection, a user-friendly app and some built-in safety features to ensure you get those windows squeaky clean.

Ecovacs' newest robotic window cleaner.

$799.

Excellent cleaning, long extension cord to clean out-of-reach areas, easy-to-use and firm grip to window.

Loud, doesn't get in close to edges and struggles with wraparound windows.

The Ecovacs Winbot W1 Pro is a square-shaped unit with a faux leather handle located in the centre of its exterior and comes with two detachable microfibre mopping pads. It features a long cord, as well as a safety carabiner that you can secure to a nearby railing to protect it against accidental falls. The box itself also comes with Ecovacs window cleaning solution and a measuring cup.

It doesnt take a genius to figure out how to use it. Once youve downloaded the app and created your account, you simply fill the Winbot with water and a proportional amount of cleaning solution before pressing it to your window and turning it on either manually or in-app.

So, how did it go? As someone who stands at about 160cm tall, reaching the higher up corners of my windows is a literal stretch. But, the Winbot W1 Pro takes all the hard work out of window cleaning.

The Winbot W1 Pro uses its 2,800Pa suction to keep itself firmly locked onto the glass. This suctioning power is almost equivalent to a few of Ecovacs own robot vacuums. Keep in mind that due to the suctioning, it can be just as loud as any other vacuum cleaner. It then uses its path planning technology to find its bearings, before moving in a systematic cleaning pattern, moving left to right from top to bottom.

You do have the option to choose between three modes: fast, deep or spot clean. Since my windows were quite dirty (I totally did that on purpose for this review), I started with a deep clean to see just how much of the dirt build-up it could remove. The Winbot left me pleasantly surprised, spritzing a tiny bit of its water and erasing any trace of dirt in one swipe. The effect was spotless I was gobsmacked.

As it finished its path ultimately it took about five minutes to do a deep clean of my seven foot tall balcony windows I found that it was able to replicate the same results across my windows, inside and out.

However, given the state that my windows were in, I noticed that when the Winbot finished it left a small imprint of dirty water residue. After examining the cleaning pads, they had managed to absorb a lot of disgusting dirt from the windows, so I had to switch the mopping pad to give it another pass.

While observing the way the Winbot navigates around edges, it does bump into the edges of the window pane to find its way around. However, it doesnt give as tight of a clean to the edges of the window because it prioritises collision avoidance over hovering for a few extra seconds to get into those tight spots. This may mean youll have to take care of the edges yourself if you want it 100% flawlessly clean, but for the most part, its very efficient.

With that said, the Winbot does a wonderful job at avoiding any obstacles alongside the edges. For instance, the glass on my internal windows have these little tags around the frame, so the Winbot simply gets as close as it can manage then navigates away from it. A solid tick for obstacle avoidance.

The addition of some side brushes that could also scrub at your window pane as it works would really elevate the efficiency of the Winbot. I know for certain that the edges of my windows could use a little extra love in that department, so it would be great to see Ecovacs implement something like this in future designs.

Unfortunately, its not compatible with all forms of windows, or rather glass for that matter. In some houses, glass windows can wrap around corners, but the Winbot will immediately shut down in a panic if it senses any emptiness ahead. This doesnt bode well for any of you hoping it could also clean your shower glass. I gave it a red hot go and Im here to tell you now dont bother.

Naturally, there are a few areas it could improve on. For starters, you cant tell whether its water tank is empty simply by eyeballing it, which is quite frustrating since itll run out halfway through a cleaning cycle and youll have to stop it in the middle of doing its thing. It also needs to be plugged in constantly, so if your windows are far away from a power point, youll need to get an extension cord.

In addition, while the process of cleaning your window is essentially hands-free, you do need to linger and wait for it to complete its process. While I wouldnt say this is necessarily a bad thing (and neither is the act of moving it from the inside of the glass to the outside), it pays to be on standby in case it does run out of water or runs into an error.

Heres the thing. I believe that a lot of people would benefit from the Ecovacs Winbot W1 Pro. On the one hand, its efficient, easy-to-use and damn good at its job. On the other hand, it is an expensive piece of tech that not many could justify. While Ill sing its praises to everyone I know, I also understand that many wont be able to afford this robot window cleaner.

Those who live in properties with very tall windows will get more bang for their buck. Cleaning large windows is no easy task and one that can be a little dangerous when atop a precarious ladder. It may also be of benefit to those with mobility issues that need extra help maintaining their home.

I do feel that a slightly smaller robot window cleaner at a lower price might hold some sway, especially for those who really cant stand cleaning windows, but dont need any of such a great scale. But if you do decide to drop the $799 on the Ecovacs Winbot, you truly wont regret it.

Amazon ($799) | eBay ($799) | Ecovacs ($799)

The article has been updated since its first publication.

Read more here:
Never Thought Id Be This Impressed by a Robotic Window Cleaner, but Here I Am - Gizmodo Australia

Get streak-free windows that sparkle using cleaning enthusiasts holy grail method (Image: GETTY)

Windows can quickly accumulate dirt from dust in the air, birds flying by and bugs taking refuge. For this reason they should be cleaned regularly to improve the look of a home and allow more natural light to enter. In search for tips to get streak-free windows, one woman took to the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips and Tricks Facebook page.

Sharon Lloyd wrote: What does everyone use to get streak-free windows? I'm so rubbish with glass, especially windows and mirrors.

Rather than typically suggesting a cleaning spray designed for windows, Mrs Hinch fans recommended using a household staple many rave about - white vinegar.

However, rather than buffing the white vinegar in with a microfibre cloth, group members recommended using some newspaper.

Mary Sheen said: Vinegar and newspapers make a lovely job of windows. Youll never look back.

READ MORE:Six things to never clean with baking soda - damages surfaces

Debbie Morris commented: Just white vinegar and then use newspaper, I swear by it. This is my holy grail way to get windows that sparkle and are steak-free.

Paula Pettet said: White vinegar solution then wipe off with scrunched up newspaper.

Angela Little wrote: Vinegar and newspapers the best or kitchen roll. In response, Val Laidlaw said: Definitely dry with newspaper. Brilliant finish.

Ann OCallaghan said: Ive just started using white vinegar and its great, give it a go.

Julie Wilkins added: Make sure you dry it off with scrunched up newspaper, thats the best for streak-free [results].

Caroline Kilbey commented: Vinegar and warm soapy water, then I dry of with old newspaper.

Karen Llamas recommended: Use white vinegar and newspaper, never a cloth, or youll always have streaks.

Before cleaning windows, its very important to dust them. If this step is missed, bits of dust and dirt will stick to the window and could scratch it.

READ MORE:Magic household staple to whiten, soften and remove clothing stains

Its important to use white vinegar because when this type of vinegar dries it leaves no residue.

The acidic acid in white vinegar makes it work efficiently to help break down the streaky film that can accumulate on windows and other glass surfaces.

Old newspapers can be great when it comes to cleaning windows as it removes any grease left over by the vinegar. However, this will also guarantee the streak-free finish most desire.

For those who have stubborn streaks which dont seem to disappear, try going over the area with clean water to help remove any of the remaining solution.

Looking for a new home, or just fancy a look? Add your postcode below or visit InYourArea

The benefits of using newspaper for window cleaning are numerous. For starters, its much cheaper than buying expensive chemical cleaners.

Newspaper is also biodegradable which makes it an environmentally friendly choice compared to other types of cleaners that contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to both humans and animals when released into the environment.

Additionally, newspapers are readily available in most households so theres no need to buy special products just for window cleaning purposes.

Another great benefit of using newspaper for window cleaning is that it leaves behind no streaks or residue on windows like some chemical cleaners do.

More:
Get streak-free windows that sparkle using cleaning enthusiasts holy grail method - Express

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April is Earth Month, and theres no more fitting time than now to search forthe most sustainable, eco-friendly, and natural products to effectively use around the home. Cleaning our kitchens, specifically, requires cleaning products that are tough on grease, stains, stuck-on food, and all other kinds of stubborn residue. To make sure we got the best insights on which natural cleaning products to use in our kitchen, we asked Vanesa Amaro, professional housekeeper and TikToks Queen of Cleaning, to tell us her favorites.

The kitchen is where you prepare everything for yourself, your family, and even pets, so its important to treat those surfaces with an extra level of care when it comes to choosing cleaning products, Amaro says. Multi-use cleaning products that can be used on a variety of surfaces are not only helpful in saving you money, but will also help minimize clutter.

All of the following products are EPA Safer Choice Certified, meaning they meet the Environmental Protection Agencys strict standards to be deemed safe for human health and the environment; and/or have an A rating from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit organization that researches and advocates for safe ingredients in consumer products.

With any of these natural cleaning products, you can feel assured about using them in your kitchen not only throughout Earth Month, but also through the rest of the year.

Continued here:
7 Natural Kitchen Cleaning Products to Try | Kitchn - The Kitchn

Buffalo Grove, IL - Window Washing Expert has built a strong reputation as a top window cleaning service provider in Buffalo Grove, offering high-quality services for commercial and residential properties. Their turnkey window cleaning service is delivered by fully trained employees who use state-of-the-art professional equipment to ensure maximum efficiency. The team at Window Washing Expert utilizes environmentally friendly products and special detergents to effectively remove all dirt and debris from windows, leaving no streaks, stains, or scratches.

The company's window washing Buffalo Grove services can greatly enhance the appearance and value of any property. By removing dirt, grime, and smudges, their team of professionals can transform the look of windows, allowing more natural light into buildings, which in turn can improve indoor air quality. Additionally, they offer stain removal, awning cleaning, and cornice cleaning services to further enhance a property's overall cleanliness and appearance. Stain removal services can help to eliminate unsightly stains on windows caused by environmental factors, while awning and cornice cleaning can remove dirt and debris that can accumulate over time, ensuring that these features continue to look their best.

Window Washing Expert is reputed for top-of-the-line window cleaning services with numerous 5-star ratings on leading platforms, a testament to the skill and professionalism offered by their cleaners. The company also enjoys a high rating from Home Advisor.

Additionally, clients consistently express satisfaction with their work, leading to a significant portion of the company's business coming from repeat customers and referrals. A client had this to say about the company's services, "Max contacted me and walked through the property to give me an accurate estimate of the time, scope, and cost of the job. Texted me the day before doing the work and then texted the day of when he was on his way. Max and his colleague couldn't have been nicer or more professional. Did a great job, cleaned up after themselves. A thoroughly positive experience. Will definitely use again."

The team at the window washing company has undergone extensive training to handle risky heights, lift heavy equipment with expertise, and work efficiently. Their skills and experience enable them to perform their tasks swiftly and competently, ensuring high-quality results. Moreover, Window Washing Expert provides flexible payment and service terms, making it convenient for clients to access their services at any time. With this approach, they ensure that all clients can enjoy the benefits of their excellent window washing services without worrying about breaking the bank.

Window Washing Expert is located at 906 Stradford Cir, Buffalo Grove, IL, 60089, USA. Visit their website to view a photo gallery of some of their window cleaning projects and for detailed information on their other services. To schedule a consultation or make other inquiries, call the company at (888) 322-8995.

Media Contact

Company NameWindow Washing ExpertContact NameMaksim VerevkinPhone(888) 322-8995Address906 Stradford CirCityBuffalo GroveStateILPostal Code60089CountryUnited StatesWebsitehttps://windowwashingexpert.com/

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Window Washing Expert is a Premier Company Offering First Rate ... - Digital Journal

This ingenious hack was posted onTikTokby kristinmariehome,who often posts affordable and budget-friendly DIY projects as she renovates her own house. Wanting the look of modern gridded windows without the higher price tag, she grabs a roll of electrical tape to create grilles on the existing windows in her living room. Standard window grilles range from 5/8 inches to 2 1/4 inchesin width, so you should look for electrical tape that is wide enough to achieve the look you want.

Start by cleaning your windows with a glass cleaner to ensure the best surface for adhesion. Once you've decided on the grid pattern you want, you should measure out the sections and then stick strips of electrical tape at those measurements you can use a ruler or a level to ensure your lines are straight. In just a few minutes, your windows will look brand new at a fraction of the cost.

See more here:
Give Your Windows Faux Frames With The Electrical Tape Hack - House Digest

The parents of the man accused of slaying themas they stayed with friends in Bowdoin sought to rehabilitate Joseph M. Eaton when he was released from a Maine prison five years ago.

Cynthia R. Eaton, 63, and David Lee Eaton, 66, both of Ocala, Florida, advocated for their son to serve his probation at their home and work for his mothers window cleaning business. They and the Maine couple, Robert C. Eger Jr., 72, and Patti Deraps Eger, 62, were found shot to death Tuesday in the Egers home at 1459 Augusta Road in Bowdoin.

Their deaths have been ruled homicides by the Maine medical examiners office. Joseph Eaton, 34, has been charged with four counts of murder.

The letter, which was datedJan. 20, 2017, and sent to the courthouse in Wiscasset, is attached to a court file and is a window into the parents challenges with a son who had a violent criminal historybefore and afterward. They said he needed their support and guidance.

The elder Eatons asked that Joseph Eaton be allowed to serve the three years of probation on his Maine sentence in Florida and live with them. The letter said that he was expected to be released in late July or early August from the Downeast Correctional Facility in Machiasport.

The letter was signed by both parents, who noted their occupations. David Eaton was a retired U.S. Navy chief, while Cindy Eaton owned a window cleaning company in Auburndale, Florida, which is roughly 48 miles east of Tampa.

The parents said they wanted Joseph Eaton to stay with them until he could settle into his own home and they were willing to do whatever it takes to comply with all requirements and regulations to allow this to occur.

Cindy owns her own business, has battled through some serious health concerns over the last two years and currently needs assistance to keep the business profitable, the letter read.

The parents went on to say that three years earlier an older son had lived with them after getting out of the U.S. Marines and being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder.

He moved in with us and we worked with him and successfully helped him get back on his feet and focused on his future, the letter went on. Our efforts helped him become a positive contributor to society and he now has a bright future with a great career.

The Eatons hopes for their younger son were thwarted when Joseph Eaton was arrested by deputies with the Nassau County Sheriffs Office on Jan. 21, 2018, after a violent incident at a relatives home. After Eaton served three years in a Florida prison, he was returned to Maine, where his probation was revoked.

Eaton was on probation in Florida for a 2015 assault in Maine on a relative. His probation was revoked because of the new criminal convictions in Florida. Eaton, whose criminal history in Mainedates back to 2013, has convictions for operating while under the influence of intoxicants, assault on a child under the age of six and an assault on a fellow prisoner at the Maine State Prison in Warren.

Joseph Eaton was released Friday from the Maine Correctional Center in Windham after completing his sentence. His mother picked him and took him to the Egers where they were staying, according to the Maine State Police.

Correction: An earlier version of this story said that the Downeast Correctional Facility in Machiasport is now closed. Although it had closed, the facility reopened a few years ago.

Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated when Joseph Eaton was arrested by Nassau County Sheriffs Office. That happened in January 2018.

More articles from the BDN

Continued here:
Accused killer's slain parents asked for him to serve probation near ... - Bangor Daily News

James Baker, manager of Dewey Auto & Tire, had to work next to a smashed-out window following a break-in early Tuesday, April 18, 2023. (Photo by Cheyanne Walker/WHAM)

Rochester, N.Y. Surveillance video shows the moments thieves stole a car from Dewey Auto & Tire early Tuesday, with a van slamming in reverse into other cars in the lot.

Shop manager James Baker worked next to a shattered window Tuesday. He said that's how the thieves got in and stole keys before taking the van.

"They tried to get into our front door," Baker said. "It has a security tinted film on it, and they couldnt get through there and quit and then they came into the other side window here and just reached in and grabbed one key they could grab, and it was blocked in. And they made their space to get out of here by ramming into other cars to get out."

Police later spotted the van, leading to a pursuit that ended with the suspects crashing into the Edgerton R-Center on Backus Street.

Officers caught one suspect but are still looking for another.

Meanwhile, Baker was left to clean up the damage which he estimated at $10,000.

"Parked cars that got hit and when they ran and whatever damage they hit when they crashed after here, my damage," Baker said. "It's a lot of people besides the person directly affected."

Owner Dave Baker said he hopes those responsible are held accountable.

"I hope that the higher-ups back (police) and prosecute them for these crimes instead of letting them go," he said. "(Otherwise) it just gives you a green light to do anything you want."

Link:
Rochester auto shop cleaning up after theft led to police chase - 13WHAM-TV

By Shania Obrien For Daily Mail Australia 03:51 19 Apr 2023, updated 07:35 19 Apr 2023

An Australian professional cleaner has revealed the 'worst' spot to clean after working on thousands of homes.

The cleaner, who goes by @cleanlikeapro online, claimed that mirrored splashbacks in kitchens were a 'nightmare' to maintain well.

A splashback is a layer installed above and behind the sink and stove to protect walls from moisture, food splatters, grease, and oil.

The woman warned against falling victim to their pristine mirrored appearances in showrooms because the reality of the feature is much worse.

Mirrored splashbacks are extremely hard to keep spotless as they reflect every speck of dust and water stain back onto the room.

The professional cleaner was secure in her opinion.

'I don't care how good these look in a showroom - do not, under any circumstances, let anyone convince you that a mirrored splashback is a good idea,' she said.

The woman posted a video of the dirt and grit the mirror holds onto - and how a few spots that would have disappeared into a marble feature instead make the whole kitchen look filthy.

'Mirrored splashbacks are a nightmare, especially when there is a stovetop or a sink that backs onto it.'

'As someone who has cleaned thousands of homes, and seen hundreds of mirrored splashbacks, these are never a good idea,' she said.

Her main issue stemmed from the potential for streaks and wipe marks despite being clean.

'I don't care how clean you are, these will always look awful,' the professional claimed.

Many agreed with the cleaner's opinion and shared bad experiences with mirrored splashbacks.

'I can't think of anything worse than looking at myself while doing dishes or cooking,' a woman said.

'I have one and as someone who suffers with OCD they are the worst.'

'Any splashback that isnt tile is a terrible idea unless you like cleaning 24/7.'

'They're only nice right after cleaning.'

But others defended their decision.

'I completely disagree,' a woman argued. I have them and they are pristine.'

'I love mine. It's easier to wipe clean with window cleaner versus scrubbing grubby grout and tiles.'

Ceramic tiles

Natural stone

Marble mosaic

Porcelain tiles

Stainless steel

Hand-chiseled Moroccan tiles

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Professional cleaner reveals the feature she'd never have in her house: 'It's a nightmare to clean' - Daily Mail

A housekeeper's heart raced when she noticed her car was missing Monday morning from outside an Agoura Hills home she was cleaning.

The surprises didn't end there for Mayra Perdomo.

Perdomo said she looked out the kitchen window and was stunned to see her car wasn't where she parked it in front of the home. Detectives later told her the thieves drove to a nearby shopping center and robbed a bank.

"When they tell me that, I was in shock," Perdomo said. "My car is an old car, Dodge Neon 2002. I can't believe it."

The car, which Perdomo uses to get to her job and take her son to school, was recovered near the bank, but she said it was heavily damaged. The thief took items with personal information that she had inside the car, Perdomo said. It also contained her cleaning supplies, and her son's car seat and football gear.

No arrests have been reported in the car theft and bank robbery, which was reported around 10 a.m. Monday at Citi Bank on Kanan Road in Agoura Hills. The FBI provided NBCLA with security camera photos of a robber, who handed a note to the teller and left with money in what authorities said they believe is Perdomo's car.

The man, wearing a face mask, was dressed in a brightly patterned sweatshirt.

Homeowner Michelle Norris called 911 after the car theft. She is attempting to raise funds to help replace Perdomo's damaged car.

"This is really devastating for her and her family," Norris said. "I really hope they are able to find this person. It's really going to be difficult for us to sleep at night knowing this person is still on the loose."

Continue reading here:
Housekeeper's Car Stolen Outside Home She Was Cleaning, Then Used in Bank Robbery - NBC Southern California

The Armed Forces Business Academy will train ex-forces service men and women to operate their own home maintenance businesses.

It aims to turn 119 ex-Forces employees into business owners in the first 5 years. The Academy is the first of its kind in the UK.

As part of the Academy, Community & Business Partners CIC will provide Veterans with two years of business mentoring and training. For the first 12 months, they will have meaningful employment and training with Patch, and then they will take on that part of the business and operate it themselves. Burnley Football Club in the Community, who have a strong Military Veterans programme, will be the recruitment partner.

Patch App UK is an online subscription-based company for window cleaning which operates in West Yorkshire including the Bradford district and North Yorkshire.

The firm says it aims to make it easier for tens of thousands of people in Yorkshire to manage their cleans.

They say their aim is to bring window cleaning and other home maintenance into the 21st century. The business wants to introduce an instant booking system using modern technology available on customer's mobile phones.

Visit link:
Patch App team with Burnley FC for military veterans scheme - Telegraph and Argus