Check Out Mark Reinhart II’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Reinhart II. 

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m a 2nd generation window cleaner. I started cleaning windows at 16 years old. When I turned 18, I received rope access and aerial boom training. I didn’t enjoy the rope work so I ran a 55ft lift and ladders for my first couple of years. When I turned 21, I caught the high-rise bug. For the next ten years, I was a crew leader, trainer, and safety coordinator. I wrote the company’s first safety manual. I’ve grown up taking 2-6 training courses a year and have been featured in many magazines and been featured on the cover. After taking break from window cleaning, I received a job offer to help with the transfer of a residential window cleaning company. After working a couple weeks, I knew that my ideas and goals were not the same of the company I was working for so I decided to start A1A Window Cleaning. When I started A1A I didn’t just quit my job, I had to work after 5 pm and on the weekends to build up my clientele. I have been building up my client list since I was 18 and have several clients that I have been working with since 1998. Now A1A WIndow Cleaning does 80% Powerwashing and 20% Window Cleaning. The Powerwashing/Softwashing has been huge for us. We enjoy doing mostly residential homes but have done large parking ramps in downtown Grand Rapids. Some of my largest jobs to date have been, The Devos Place, Celebration Cinema, Gerald R. Ford Airport, Amway, Rockford Construction, Terrytown RV, and many more. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When I started A1A Window Cleaning I had no idea about the amazing tools in our industry. I was always told what tools to use and how to do it. In my off-season, I asked myself why is this the tool I use and why is this the process. I quickly learned that I could clean homes and windows more efficiently and 90% without ladders. I now clean windows over 55ft with my Unger Hi Mod carbon fiber pole. I have about 20 different brushes that will help get the dirtiest window clean. I also have two power washers combined together that will shoot over 65ft of low-pressure water. One of the most challenging things has been to understand what caused the stain and what is the best chemical to use. When we clean, we turn the pressure down and use the right chemicals to clean the surface as gently as possible to preserve the area. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’ve grown up racing bikes, riding skateboards and snowboards. I love to film and photograph while doing these things. To these industries branding is very important. It’s been a priority to me to brand A1A just like you would a large company. We have heard it many times, “Those guys at A1A get it done”. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I would say I had good luck when it came to being able work for another company and learn from the ground up. I’ve had the opportunity to lead large crews on some of the largest buildings in Grand Rapids. No matter how large or small the job is, I can see how to finish the job as safe and efficient as possible. 

Contact Info:

• Email: A1AwindowcleaningMI@yahoo.com
• Website: A1AWindowCleaning.Com
• Instagram: @a1awindowcleaning
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A1Awindowcleaning/
• Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/chennel/UCFqHtv8admtlhSzMzojLhHA

Image Credits
Brain Posten