A Guide to Self-Cleaning Glass

By Kelly Wheeler

The concept of glass that cleans itself almost seems too futuristic to be true. When first hearing of its existence you’d be forgiven for thinking that tiny little robots came and cleaned the glass while you were sleeping. In fact all it takes to keep your windows looking as clear as you’d like them to is nature
So what exactly is self-cleaning glass?

How Self-Cleaning Glass Works
Self-cleaning glass makes use of a microscopic dual action coating which actually uses the forces of nature to keep your glass looking cleaner and clearer.
Step one in the cleaning process is known as the photocatalytic stage – in layman’s terms this is when the coating reacts with sunlight in order to break down organic dirt.
Step two is known as the hydrophilic stage and occurs either when it is raining or when you take a hose to the glass. The water instead of forming droplets like it would on ordinary glass runs off in a sheet taking down the loosened dirt. What’s even better is that it dries exceptionally quickly and doesn’t leave unsightly streaks. Self-cleaning glass is a real treat for homeowners.

Maintaining Self-Cleaning Glass
If you have installed self-cleaning glass you will need to wait approximately five to seven days for the glass to energise. Very little maintenance is required (another of the technology’s benefits) but if the glass is so dirty that sunlight can not actually reach the glass the self-cleaning properties will not be displayed. If this is the case wash the windows down with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. The glass will be cleaning itself as usual in a few days.

Remember that if the dirt is not organic (paint, grease, cement) it will not be washed away by the rain. As it is the microfilm on the glass that is key to the self-cleaning process it is vital that you are careful when trying to remove inorganic matter from the glass. Under no circumstances should you use an abrasive material like steel wool or a razor blade to remove the dirt – rather use a soft cloth soaked in methylated spirits.

Why You Should Install Self-Cleaning Glass
The use of glass in homes is incredibly popular as not only is glass stunning from a design point of view but it also allows light to flood into your home which acts as a mood enhancer and also makes interior spaces seem larger.
There are very few negative aspects to glass – that is until the cleaning of the glass comes into play of course.
If you’ve ever spent a Saturday precariously perched atop a ladder trying to get your skylights clean you’ll relate. Even if you’re paying someone else to do the daredevil ladder antics you may be a little resentful about the amount of money you have to spend in order to keep your windows looking fabulous. Self-cleaning glass is the answer for many frustrated homeowners – it could save you lots of time and money (and we all love a bit of extra fun money).

For business purposes self-cleaning glass is often a necessity. Imagine not having to employ the window cleaners every month or never again having to listen to how dull the office looks because the windows are so filthy. Your office space can look bigger, fresher and more welcoming with sparkling windows.

Where Self-Cleaning Glass Can be Used
Self-cleaning glass is ideal for hard to reach windows, especially for properties boasting more than one floor, and for skylights – which are completely useless unless they are squeaky clean.
Self-cleaning glass is also the ideal glass for conservatories, orangeries and sunrooms. These large rooms are really all about creating a natural outdoor/indoor flow and as a result the glass needs to be impeccably clean. Many homeowners adding conservatories and sunrooms as part of their renovation plans are choosing self-cleaning glass – not only because of its ability to use the forces of nature to stay clean but because it can be used in conjunction with other conservatory specific applications.
One thing that conservatory owners spend a lot of time researching is solar control for their conservatories. You’ll want to keep your gorgeous glass house warm in winter yet cool in summer. It is for this reason that many use solar control glass when constructing these structures. A popular brand of self-cleaning glass not only boasts self-cleaning but solar control properties too – what more could you wish for?

Whether you’re looking to save some money, time or just to increase the visual appeal or market value of your home self-cleaning glass could be a worthwhile investment.

Leading glass manufactures, Pilkington, introduced the world’s first self-cleaning glass in 2003. Ideal for use in your home or conservatory, Pilkington Self-cleaning Glass is a must have product for many homeowners in the UK and around the world.

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Topics: Home Improvement | Comments Off

Tags: active, guide, home, Home Improvement, pilkington, self-cleaning glass, solar control

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