Glass master

For years, business owners in Chico and elsewhere have been infuriated by vandals who have defaced their windows by scratching gang symbols or random graffiti into them, ruining the look of their storefronts. Buying and installing new windows is extremely expensive, but Nate Allen’s Bidwell Windows now offers a more affordable solution. The Orland-based Allen has operated his window-washing business for years, but says he’s cornered the market on a new service that repairs vandalized windows. Contact him at bidwellwindows@hotmail.com or 828-8049.

Are you really the only person who can erase these ugly scratches?

Yes. As far as I know I’m the only person from Yuba City to the Oregon border who does this. It’s odd because I counted over 90 downtown businesses that have these scratches. I buff them out, then polish the glass. You can only notice it if you look at the window sideways; then you can see a slight wavy area. I’m sure I’ll have competition soon but I’m not worried.

Why do people scratch windows?

Some are random or juvenile nonsense. Dogs even scratch home windows trying to get in. But most of them are gang symbols to mark territory. It makes the tagged businesses seem like they’re advertising for gangs. People use rocks, rings or diamond tools. I’m doing my best to keep downtown clean.

How did you get started?

I heard about it being done in big California cities, so I handed out 40 cards to scratched downtown businesses. Thirty said they were interested, so four months ago I got a loan and bought a kit to do it. So far I’ve done seven businesses, like Fleet Feet Sports, Trucker, Cyclesport and The Fashion Lounge. Chico’s graffiti eradication unit even hired me for a job. I’ve been a window washer for 15 years and now split my time between both. My years of hard work and perseverance are finally paying off. When I get busier I’ll hire another window cleaner and want to expand to surrounding counties.

How do people hear about you?

I hand out business cards but it’s mostly by word of mouth. I lined up several jobs when people saw me doing Fleet Feet.

What are the advantages of repairing windows instead of replacing them?

It’s “green” because every year over 1 million tons of glass are put into landfills that could be recycled. Plus, it takes lots of energy to make new glass. So this is green, saves businesses money and puts a little money in my pocket to help me raise my two young kids.