Last Updated February 2026
How does WCR compare to J. Racenstein Co.?
J. Racenstein Co. and WCR both started on the East Coast and continue to run warehouses there. With a strong online presence, window cleaners can order tools and have them arrive at their doorstep in days. See how these two retailers stack up against each other.
WCR vs JRC
| Features | WCR | JRC |
|---|---|---|
| Shipping | ||
| Free Shipping |
Starts at $49
|
Starts at $49
|
| Same Day Shipping |
Yes - by 5 PM EST
|
1 - 2 Day Processing
|
| International Shipping |
Yes
|
Yes
|
| Local Pickup |
Yes
|
Yes
|
| Ships From |
New York
|
New Jersey & California
|
| Customer Service | ||
| Livechat Available |
Yes
|
No
|
| Phone Support |
24/7
|
8 AM - 7 PM EST
|
| Experts on Hand |
Yes
|
Yes
|
| Return Policy |
90 Days
|
15 Days
|
| Pricing & Perks | ||
| Low Prices Guaranteed |
Yes
|
No
|
| Free Gift Program |
Yes
|
No
|
| Minimum Order Amount |
None
|
None
|
| Customer Feedback & Community | ||
| Google Reviews |
5.0 Rating - Over 8,000 Reviews
|
4.5 Rating - Under 100 Reviews
|
| Facebook Reviews |
100% Recommended - Over 600 Reviews
|
100% Recommended - Under 20 Reviews
|
| Official Facebook Group |
37.8K+ Members
|
34.3K Members
|
| About & Initiatives | ||
| Awards & Recognition |
2025 Inc 5000 - Fastest Growing Company
|
N/A
|
| Charity Arm / Fund |
Yes - Window Cleaner Relief Fund
|
No
|
| Affiliate Program |
Yes
|
No
|
| Year Founded |
2007
|
1909
|
Key Differences Between WCR and J. Racenstein Co.
There are three major ways WCR and J. Racenstein Co. differ in their business practices. While both companies care about selling the best products available to window cleaners, WCR takes a more committed approach to serving its customers.
1. Customer Service: Where J. Racenstein Co. offers limited customer service hours weekly, WCR offers help 24/7. WCR provides customers a direct line to expert help from real window cleaners and expert product specialists. WCR uses live chat, text, email, phone lines, and social media as available sources for customers to contact experts and customer service staff.
2. Shipping Policy: While J. Racenstein Co. has a 1-2 day processing time, if holidays aren’t involved, WCR lives by a same-day shipping policy. For professionals who need replacement tools or equipment quickly, processing time can be a meaningful factor.
3. Returns Policy: J. Racenstein Co. offers a 30-day full refund to customers, while WCR has a 90-day return window. J. Racenstein’s current published return policy lists a shorter return window, which gives WCR more flexibility for buyers evaluating new tools and equipment. Any new, unopened items purchased from WCR can be returned, no questions asked, for a full refund. Once WCR receives the product back and inspects it, a full refund of the product(s) will be issued.
A Brief History on J. Racenstein Co.
Selling Window Cleaning Supplies from Home: The Story of J. Racenstein
Did you know that J. Racenstein—now a leader in window-cleaning supply distribution—began as one New Yorker selling tools from his home? In 1909, Joseph Racenstein founded J. Racenstein & Company with nothing more than determination and a deep interest in understanding the needs of window cleaners. He spent his early days walking the streets of New York City, speaking directly with cleaners, learning their challenges, and finding products to help them work better and safer.
This commitment to listening and responding to customer needs would become the foundation of the company’s long-standing legacy.
As the business grew, Joseph eventually passed it on to his sons, George and Irving. In 1937, the company moved from the family home into its first official office on Broadway. The brothers complemented each other’s strengths—George focused on serving the local New York market, while Irving expanded their reach into neighboring states like Massachusetts and Virginia. Together, they continued their father’s tradition of hands-on service and customer care.
When it came time for the next generation to step in, George’s son Marty Racenstein took up the mantle in 1963.
Photo from the AWC Magazine Issue 63 - 1997
A Grandson with His Grandfather’s Passion
Marty shared his grandfather’s belief that great businesses are built by listening to their customers. He spent countless hours on the phone with window cleaners or visiting their shops, eager to hear what challenges they were facing. His genuine care earned him a respected place within the window-cleaning community.
In 1978, Marty found a partner in Bob Ertel, who joined the company and quickly became both a trusted colleague and close friend. Together, they formed a dynamic leadership team: Bob handled the warehouse, employees, and operations, while Marty remained the voice for customers. Their goal was simple—ship every order within 24 hours.
As Marty continued to engage with the industry, he discovered a growing need for improved safety. He became an active speaker at events, supported safety initiatives, and helped shape the early development of the IWCA (International Window Cleaning Association). The company also brought on Stefan Bright, a well-known safety expert and IWCA speaker, to strengthen their commitment to the cause.
From the AWC Magazine Issue 144 - 2011
A New Start, A Continued Legacy
Bob continued running the company with the same integrity and service customers had long trusted. When it came time for him to retire, he sought new owners who would honor the Racenstein legacy. In 2005, Birds Barrier owners Steve Blyth and Cameron Riddell acquired the company.
Steve and Cameron expanded operations to the West Coast by opening a California warehouse. They also continued the tradition of education by investing in seminars and industry events. But they recognized another need—bringing tools directly to window cleaners. That opportunity arrived with the addition of Jim Willingham.
Jim, a passionate and charismatic window cleaner from Texas, understood the challenges of the trade firsthand. He had a love for pure water cleaning and often spoke about it to others. He proposed creating a mobile showroom stocked with products that cleaners could see, handle, and try. Steve and Cameron loved the idea, and The Window Wagon was born—a traveling resource to help cleaners discover better tools and techniques.
Tragically, Jim passed away two years later after battling cancer. To honor his contributions and spirit, the company renamed the program Willingham’s Window Wagon and later added a second mobile unit dedicated to pure water systems.
PHOTO FROM THE AWC MAGAZINE ISSUE 121 - 2005
J. Racenstein Today
More than a century after its humble beginnings, J. Racenstein remains known for its trustworthiness, service, and deep industry expertise. With warehouses in both New Jersey and California, the company continues to support window cleaners across the country with the tools, training, and solutions they need.
What began with Joseph Racenstein selling a few supplies from his home has grown into a leading innovator in both traditional and pure-water window cleaning. That success has always been driven by people—people who listen, people who care, and people who are dedicated to helping window cleaners thrive.
Jim Willingham FROM THE AWC MAGAZINE ISSUE 128 - 2008
FAQ
Is J. Racenstein still in business?
J. Racenstein Co. has been in business since 1909 and continues to operate in warehouses on both coasts, specifically out of New Jersey and California.
Does J. Racenstein offer free shipping?
J. Racenstein Co. offers free shipping on orders over $49. This is where JRC and WCR match, since WCR also offers free shipping at the same threshold.
What is J. Racenstein's return policy?
J. Racenstein Co. accepts most new, unopened items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. They offer to pay return shipping costs if the return is a result of an incorrectly sent or defective item. For returns to be accepted, items must be unused and in original packaging unless otherwise approved.
What is the difference between WCR and J. Racenstein?
Both companies are established East Coast window cleaning suppliers. However, there are some stark differences between WCR and J. Racenstein Co. For instance, WCR offers 24/7 customer support while J. Racenstein Co. only offers customer support 8 AM-7 PM Mon-Fri. WCR offers same-day shipping before 5 PM, while J. Racenstein Co. has 1-2 day processing. WCR has a 90-day return policy vs J. Racenstein Co's 30 days. WCR also offers live chat on its website for instant help, whereas J. Racenstein Co. does not. WCR also offers a wider selection of popular, high-quality window cleaning brands to shop from.
What is the best alternative to J. Racenstein?
Window Cleaning Resource is the top alternative to J. Racenstein Co, because WCR offers same-day shipping, 24/7 support, live chat, a 90-day return policy, and an unbeatable Low Price Guarantee.
Does J. Racenstein have live chat?
No, J. Racenstein Co. does not currently offer live chat support.
Ready to Experience the WCR Difference?
With the greatest selection of products, 24/7 customer support, same-day shipping, a 90-day return policy, and a Low Price Guarantee, WCR is the trusted choice for window cleaning professionals.