Self helpers

Tom Bulawa, window washer

How long have you been washing windows?

About six years. We go all throughout Manhattan, from uptown to downtown, commercial buildings and residences. You get to see a lot of different places.

Why do you choose to work alone?

It’s nice to be by yourself—that way you can concentrate on what you’re doing. You’re dealing with heights, and you don’t want to drop anything. You have to keep track of all your equipment. If a squeegee slips out of your hands at that height, you could injure someone pretty good.

So I’m guessing you’re not afraid of heights.

No. I’ve been up to about 40 stories. After a while you get accustomed to it. At first it was pretty scary—my knees started shaking. But now it’s easier: You know what to expect. It’s pretty cool when you’re hanging off the side of a building on, say, Seventh Avenue, and you look down into the middle of the Fashion District and see cars buzzing beneath you…it’s kind of exhilarating.

Speaking of sights: Ever look into the window you’re cleaning and see anything…unusual?

Every once in a while you see something you don’t expect. I’ve seen people chasing each other through an apartment. Manhattan can be pretty strange.

Any nudity?

Only once in six years.

Wow, I’m kind of disappointed to hear that. Ever catch anyone in the act?

No, no—not yet.

You’d better keep at it, then.

[Laughs] Yeah, I’m gonna have to try.