New Jersey Window Washing Glass Warning
We require waivers for all stain removal window cleaning jobs regardless of the
condition of your windows. Please read the information presented on this page.
The technician will use a non-abrasive cleaning pad which
will remove 99% of all stubborn window debris. The use of a razor or
glass scraper is at the technicians discretion and will never be used
without the signed permission (waiver) the home owner.
Common Window Cleaning Myths
There are many commonly held ideas about what is, and what is not, safe to use to clean windows. Unfortunately, many of these ideas are not valid. Below is a list of the most commonly spread falsehoods about glass scratches.
1) Window cleaning scrapers scratch glass.
If used properly, a scraper will not scratch glass. This includes any size or style of metal scraper.
2) A nick in a scraper will scratch glass.
This is also incorrect. Aside from leaving sections of the glass inadequately cleaned, nicks in the scraper with not adversely affect the glass.
3) Steel wool (#0000) will scratch glass.
This is also false. Experimentation has shown repeatedly that #0000 steel wool will not scratch the glass surface. RUSTED Steel wool, no matter what grade will scratch glass.
The Facts about window cleaning
With some of the myths exposed, what are some facts about window cleaning? Window cleaning carries a very high risk of glass damage if excess construction debris is present (from repaired, newly replaced or a new construction home) or if the window cleaner is not properly trained.
Here is a list of what can cause scratches.
1) Construction debris.
2) Construction debris behind a scraper, or rust on a scraper.
3) Construction debris or rust in steel wool.
4) Construction debris in a strip washer.
5) Fabricating debris fused to the surface of low-quality tempered glass during the tempering process in manufacturing.
When glass scratches are noticed, it is helpful to observe the direction of the scratches. Many assume that if the scratches are in the same direction as the path taken by the window cleaner's scraper that he/she is to blame. Often times these types of scratches result from excessive construction debris or defective tempered glass, and are not the result of the window cleaner's scraper. Upon closer examination, it is often seen that the scratches do not extend from the beginning of the scraper's path to the end of the scraper's path. On defective tempered glass, as the scraper passes over each glass defect, it dislodges the defect and creates a scratch as it is dragged across the glass surface. It is always best to inform your window cleaning professional with as much knowledge as possible about your window history. All information you provide, aides in the process of receiving the utmost quality.
GLASS PROCESSING MANUFACTURING HISTORY
During manufacturing and processing, glass surfaces are exposed to a number of processes and materials, which can leave a residue on the glass surface. During the manufacturing of float glass, coated glass, tempered glass and insulating glass, the glass surfaces are exposed to vacuum cups, rollers, packaging materials (paper, cardboard, foam, cork, hot melt, etc.), glass production labels and the window manufacturer's labels. These materials that come in contact with glass surfaces during glass processing, window fabrication and installation can leave a residue on the glass that is not visible under normal viewing conditions. These residues may become visible when moisture is present on glass (i.e. rain water, condensation, etc.) and is not considered to be a glass defect and glass should not be replaced because of this condition. By following the recommendations of the manufacturer, scratching of glass products should be significantly reduced and will ensure that the glass will be cleaned according to industry recommendations.