Window Cleaning

INSTRUCTIONS TO ALL TRADES AND INDIVIDUALS
Always follow manufacturer’s installation and cleaning instructions.
It is recommended that glass be protected from contamination caused by building materials and methods during construction as this will greatly simplify the glass cleaning task at the end of the project. If the glass is not protected during construction then the glass and frames should be cleaned frequently during construction.
Construction dust, leachate from concrete and rusting from steel can contribute to the formation of mild chemicals, which may stain or otherwise damage the glass.
Glass should be cleaned using only cleaning materials which are free of grit and debris (to avoid scratching and marking of the glass surface).
Only detergents and cleaning solutions which are recommended for cleaning glass  should be used. Mild detergents are preferable.

Extra care is necessary where high performance reflective glass is installed. The coated surface can be susceptible to stains and scratches and therefore requires vigilance during the full construction process.

Temporary screens should be installed if welding, sandblasting, floor sanding, cuffing or other potentially damaging construction practices takes place near the glass.
Glass installations which are adjacent to concrete (e.g. concrete slab floors) require extra care and cleaning due to the abrasive nature of concrete dust.
All tradesmen should be advised to be aware of damaging glass and windows and to leave in place any materials protecting the window or glass.

TOUGHENED GLASS
The cleaning of toughened glass requires special care. The glass surface opposite the standards compliance stamp may, as a consequence of the manufacturing process, have ‘pickup’ on the surface. ‘Pickup’ is a deposit of very small particles of glass which are fused to the glass surface. A cleaning method which does not dislodge these particles should be employed otherwise scratching of the glass surface may result. Blades or scrapers have been known to dislodge ‘pickup’ from the glass surface. A soft cloth, which will not dislodge 'pickup’, should be used. It is suggested that professional cleaners consult with their suppliers as to the suitability of available cleaning equipment, materials and methods.

IF DAMAGE OCCURS!
If glass is damaged or broken on-site ensure that experienced glaziers are engaged to rectify the situation. Glass can be a safety hazard if not handled properly.

NOTE TO THE PAINTER!
Paint spots have been traditionally removed using a sharp razor blade. The use of a blade can in some cases cause damage to the glass.  As an alternative, investigate solvents or graffiti removal materials, ensuring that they will not damage the glass. If a blade or scraper is used then the risk of damage can be reduced by using a scraper which has a clean edge and is held at an angle of 30 degrees to the glass. Consult the supplier of the blade or scraper as to how it is best used to clean glass. However, surface coated, modified or tinted glass requires special care. Seek cleaning advice from your local glass merchant.

CARE OF MIRRORS
Mirrors require special care in cleaning. To clean mirrors, simply wipe over the surface with a few drops of methylated spirits on a damp cloth. Polish surface dry with a lint free cloth. Some proprietary glass cleaners, if used to excess, can cause damage to the silvering.

For particular stain removed from glass please also look at Hard Surface Stain Removing