kubotafan

I have been doing some research before purchasing a pressure washer. I have read that a belt drive is better than direct drive because it runs the pump at a slower speed, and having the pump isolated from the engine also keeps it running cooler. I have been talking with a dealer who prefers a direct drive to a belt drive, but uses a gear box to reduce speed to the pump. I haven't read anything about this setup, so am looking for some advice. Thanks in advance.

I am in Nova Scotia, Canada and have been operating my own shoe repair business for over 20 years. As we move into a more disposable shoe industry the repair business suffers. In the winter I do some snow removal, and am looking for something to supplement my income in the summer. I think there would be a market for exterior home cleaning, and it doesn’t seem to be something offered, or promoted in our area. To get started in the business, what would I need for a starting package, including pressure washer, hoses, nozzles, chemicals, etc? What dollar value would be needed for equipment and chemicals (not counting vehicle - I already have a suitable truck and trailer)? Is it difficult shipping chemicals need across the boarder, or would I find necessary supplies in Canada? Before starting in the business is there any recommend reading or courses available I should take?

For starting a business would a good cold unit get me started, or shoud I invest in a hot to start? My thinking is a cold unit would likely get me started, and as the business grows a hot unit could be added and the cold unit would make a backup. Will a cold unit clean a concrete foundation or is heat needed? Is the heat used mainly just where there is oil and grease such as a garage. Will a cold clean a concrete, asphalt or brick driveway and walkway?

One question about washing a house. Do you start at the top and work down or do you wet it from the bottom uo and then work your way down? I would think the second, but read one place to start at the top. I thought if the bottom was wet it would keep the dirt from the top running off better. After vinyl is washed will dirt and dust stick to it quicker? Is there anything used to reduce static that might cause dust to stick?

I have been doing lots of reading here and on other forums. I am still learning, and don't mind being directed to important reading.