Save Time, Make More Money With Weed Killer
Clearing up the weeds that grow along curblines can pay dividends in more ways than one. You can charge for the extra service, and won't have to contend with trying to clean asphalt that has a litter-trapping curbline. Fall is typically the best season for this, since it is a time when most contractors have a little breather after the hectic summer months. Plus you will also get a more lasting 'fix' since the plants will be starting into their dormant stage.
To offer this extra service, you will need to put an additional tank on your sweeper. Some people just use a hand sprayer tank, and attach it with bungee cords or some other method to the sides of their hopper. The system should allow the driver to reach out as necessary and spray weeds at the curbline.
Because commercially available weed killer lasts for several months, application doesn't have to be often. It's a good 'add-on' service to provide for clients (typically at $25 to $50 and up per year) and, even if the cost isn't passed on to the customer, the increase in speed and efficiency of the sweeper in a weed-free curbline more than pays for the chemicals and the time it takes to apply them.
A 'tip of the hat' to Keith Schuler, Lawnstylist, Inc., for the reminder to check and see whether or not you are required to be licensed to apply weed killer on a commercial basis. He emailed to say: "As a landscaper, our understanding is that you need to be licensed to apply weed killer commercially. I know many contracters do it without, but it's still not legal. However, there are some organic weed killers that do not fall under the same category because they are not harmful to the environment."
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