From Bondi Beach to Brisbane, Duncan McRae has spent nearly 30 years in the window cleaning industry — Squeegee has helped him stay organised and professional 🚀🇦🇺

With a career spanning nearly three decades, it’s safe to say that Duncan McRae, founder of McRae’s Window Cleaning, knows the window cleaning industry inside and out. From launching his first business in Bondi Beach, Sydney back in 1996, to building a strong client base in Brisbane through McRae’s Window Cleaning since 2016, Duncan has focused on doing things properly: delivering consistently high-quality service, staying professional and punctual and always looking for ways to improve.

“I started in this industry because I wanted a flexible schedule and the ability to build something on my own terms and I’ve never looked back.”

Duncan originally launched Paragon Window Cleaning on the shores of Bondi, before selling the business and working up and down the East Coast. In 2016, he decided to settle in Brisbane and build McRae’s Window Cleaning from the ground up. Now, the company serves the greater Brisbane region, focusing primarily on residential window cleaning, with a solid base of commercial clients — especially local offices and cafes who value attention to detail and consistent results. Alongside windows, McRae’s offers screen cleaning and track detailing and for pressure washing or soft washing, they work in collaboration with a trusted partner to ensure clients get a seamless experience.

“Our unique selling point is a professional and punctual service. I show up on time, do a meticulous job and treat every home with respect. I have built a strong reputation and most bookings are repeat customers. ”

Having followed the UK scene online, Duncan’s noticed a few key differences between Australian and UK-based window cleaners:

• Frequency: In Australia, residential cleans are usually quarterly or seasonal, whereas UK customers often prefer monthly rounds.
• Scope: Residential cleans in Australia almost always include both internal and external windows.
• Climate: The heat and humidity mean early starts and equipment built for tougher weather conditions.

Duncan’s bookings come largely from repeat clients and referrals, but he’s also invested in building a strong digital presence. His Google Business Profile filled with five-star reviews, brings in a steady flow of new clients and Instagram has helped showcase work and build credibility. Lately, he’s taken a new direction, using his platform to share advice and insights with other window cleaning professionals, especially solo operators just starting out. In 2020, Duncan made the switch to Squeegee after testing other platforms but what made Squeegee stand out? “It was simple, flexible and mobile-first. When you’re out in the field all day, that’s crucial.”

For scheduling and customer management, it’s become an essential part of how he runs the business. “The ability to set repeat schedules for commercial clients has been a game-changer. Before Squeegee, I’d occasionally miss follow-ups or forget who was due for a clean.”

Duncan is currently selling the business in Brisbane as he plans a move interstate, where he’ll start fresh with a new window cleaning company. His bigger vision is to step into a new role — as a mentor and course creator — helping other window cleaners launch and grow their businesses through online training, community support and digital resources. “I’ve learned a lot over the years, and now it’s time to pass it on.”

Duncan’s Top 3 Tips for Window Cleaners in Australia

1. Start simple, but start smart. You don’t need every piece of gear — but you do need the right mindset, great service and a clear focus.

2. Follow up like a dentist. Don’t wait for the client to call you. Book their next service before you leave — or follow up with a message. That’s how you build a steady, reliable income.

3. Charge what you’re worth. Avoid the race to the bottom. Set professional rates from the beginning. Confidence, clear communication and quality service will always win.

“Squeegee has taken a huge load off the admin side of things. It helps me focus on the part of the business I love — working with great clients and delivering great results.”