[duncan h]

Did a new custy and her cony has foot prints from when it was fitted 4 years ago. I said I would virosol it in spring. Then she said it was self cleaning glass. Whats the does and don't with the stuff

[telfordwindowclnr]

The fact that the footprints have been on there for 4 years is proof that the hydrophobic properties of the glass are minimal at best. I would just pole it like normal and see what happens. If they don't come off, virusol it.

It appears that any coating is not working anyway so I'd have no issues cleaning it.

[Ian Lancaster]

I would have pointed out that as it had four year old footprints on it, it obviously isn't self cleaning!!

We do lots of self cleaning glass - only ever used pure water, no chemicals.  Never had any problems, but then again, how would you (or the customer) know?

[tonycarr]

How To Clean and Maintain “Self Cleaning Glass”
by TORY MARINO
in COMMERCIAL WINDOW CLEANING ARTICLES,PRO ADVISER
Maintaining Self Cleaning Glass
Glass manufacturers have been producing self cleaning glass for a number of years now, and since it’s availability and popularity is wide-spread, many are installing these windows in order to save money in operating/maintenance budgets in years to come. Many home owners have purchased this upgrade and installed these self cleaning windows for various reasons.

They will still need to be cleaned, and maintained. From delivery to the building site during construction and during the window’s lifespan, it will need to be cared for in a very particular way. If these specific cleaning procedures aren’t adhered to it will damage the window beyond repair and void the warranty.

What Is Self Cleaning Glass?

Glass makers will use different formulas, so the actual correct answer can only be given by the manufacturers themselves. However, generally speaking the answer is this; it is a mixture where the active ingredient is titanium oxide which is applied to side one, pane one (the side of the window which faces the exterior of your home).

How To Correctly Clean and Maintain Self Cleaning Glass

Identification

At the time of this writing (November 27, 2012) there are no identifying stamps or markings on the glass that would indicate that its a self cleaning panel. When it’s delivered or newly purchased it does come with identifying stickers, some with holographic images. However, for the person cleaning the window; if this person is not informed of the presence of self cleaning windows then it is highly probable that the windows will be damaged.

Unfortunately, once the coating has been damaged, repair is impossible.

One company which was extremely helpful to me, sent me their maintenance guide which is pretty specific in how to clean these windows.

Do not use soap that has any type of dye in it.
Do not use ANY type of abrasives (including sponges that usually can be used on glass)
Use of squeegees are NOT recommended
Using a purified water cleaning system is highly recommended
If you are a homeowner or a builder, please inform your window cleaning vendor of the presence of this type of window before any estimate is given or any work is to be performed so that your windows can remain in pristine condition.

 

Tagged as: coated glass, Self cleaning glass, titanium coated glass


tony

[duncan h]

The fact that the footprints have been on there for 4 years is proof that the hydrophobic properties of the glass are minimal at best. I would just pole it like normal and see what happens. If they don't come off, virusol it.

It appears that any coating is not working anyway so I'd have no issues cleaning it.

Its spotless other wise. No mould

[firefly123]

you can use fairy liquid on self cleaning glass i emailed pilkington glass  that is what they said