Domestic cleaning chronicles

Window Cleaning: Exploring Self-Cleaning Windows and How to Properly Clean Them

by Grace Dunn

Are you sick of constantly washing your windows and cleaning dirt, dust and other particles that have accumulated on the surface? You may never have to again with self-cleaning window panes. 

How Self-Cleaning Windows Work

All glass manufacturers use different recipes and formulas; however, the fundamental concept and process is basically the same. For example, titanium oxide is almost always an ingredient. Self-cleaning windows rely on microscopic coatings that are capable of a dual-action cleaning process. 

The first stage of the cleaning is known as photocatalytic where daylight breaks down any organic dirt that may have accumulated on the surface. Once the organic materials are broken down, the next step can proceed. Hydrophilic relies on rainwater. When rainwater comes into contact with the glass panes, they will spread evenly and essentially wash the dirt off of the windows. Sounds pretty space-age, right?

How to Correctly Clean & Maintain Them

Even thought the self-cleaning windows can take of themselves, you still have to do the job every once and a while. Self-cleaning windows are quite energy-efficient because they do not need to be cleaned regularly at all; however, you should consider cleaning and maintaining them once every several years.

Most homeowners tend to damage self-cleaning windows by implementing improper cleaning work. Keep in mind that once the microscopic coating is damaged, it is impossible to repair the windowpanes. Here are a few tips to properly clean and maintain self-cleaning windows:

  • Avoid using any type of soap that contains any type of dye. The dye can easily react with the ingredients within the microscopic coating, and cause unwanted reactions.
  • Never use any type of abrasive cleaner on the windows. This includes sponges and squeegees that are recommended for glass. Although sponges may seem soft and harmless, they will polish and grind off the microscopic coating.
  • Use a purified water cleaning system. You want to make sure that the water does not contain any contaminants that may wear down the microscopic coating of the windows.

Washing self-cleaning windows can be difficult. A wrong move can easily damage these windowpanes. As a result, most manufacturers recommend hiring professional cleaners like Kenkleen to do the job to reduce the risk of damage to the windows.

With self-cleaning windows, your windows will be dirt-free and streak-free throughout the year. These windows are energy efficient and time saving, thus making them a worthwhile investment for any home or building.

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