If you own a carpet cleaning business you know that it is a business with ups and downs. It is definitely a seasonable business. It is on average 6 months of boom, 3 months of average and 3 months of slow times. It does not have to be this way however. Read this article for some tips on diversifying your business.
The first way that you can diversify your business for more stability is to add commercial business. Commercial carpet cleaning unlike residential carpet cleaning is not seasonal. They have to get their carpets and upholstery cleaned year round and they often set up regular cleanings. This makes it business that you an depend on. Once you get a commercial customer they are more than likely yours for years if you treat them right. Another way to diversify is to add on other services that residential home owners need. I am sure you already do upholstery cleaning but there is much more to clean in the average home. You can add wood floor cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, drapery cleaning, air duct cleaning, window cleaning, maid service, make ready cleaning and the list goes on and on. Usually all you need to do to add these services is purchase a little equipment and take a few training classes. Talk to your local carpet cleaning supplier and see what courses they have coming up. If they do not have one, consider traveling to a nearby city that does. The expense of the trip is well worth it and you can of course write it off. Lastly you might consider doing water or smoke damage restoration. Many cleaners do this but keep in mind that there are a few pitfalls to entering this area of work. There is a large amount of equipment you need to buy so you need to be committed. You also need to have good insurance and you will need to take many classes to learn how to dry structures and clean up fire damage. Being on call twenty four hours a day can also drive some people nuts so be aware that the money is good but the work can be hard.
As you can see there are many ways for you to diversify your business. You do not have to put up with the slow times if your business performs a variety of different services. Just be sure to research your decision before you jump into anything. Good luck.