Pre-Scrub
First-Time Cleanings: Some buildings may require a re-clean to get them into "WATER-FED" shape. Years of squeegee cleaning may have left a heavy coating of soap, especially on caulks and other surfaces surrounding the glass.
Doodlebug/3M: A pre-scrub may be required on heavy soiled glass with an extra Water-Fed pole (standard) and a doodlebug attachment and white 3M pad.
Back-Flip: A Back-Flip scrubber with 3M pad can be attached to the back side of the Water-Fed pole to pre-scrub glass.
Dema-In Line: Some glass may require a light chemical to remove water stain, window static stain, etc. This device allows for chemical injection into the water line.
Scrubbing Techniques
Middle Start: Always start in the center of the glass and scrub up to the top frame.
Direct Sunlight: Working in direct sunlight on hot glass is actually a benefit with De-Ionized water system. This will allow for faster drying.
Top Frame: Avoid scrubbing or rinsing the top frame if possible.
Overlap: If you are cleaning several rows along a curtain wall a worker should clean the entire first row window, the frame and four inches on the next row of windows. This will allow for runoff of the bottom frame upon return to the second row.
Bump Technique: Short, quick scrubbing, around the frames allows for extra cleaning power to remove buildup. |
Rinsing Techniques
Middle Start: Start rinsing in the center of the glass and rinse up to the frame. This will stop drip down from the frame.
Tilt Rinse: Rinsing can be done by tilting the brush on it corner along the ends to allow fro two streams to flow onto the glass for rinsing.
Fan Spray Rinse: When windows bead instead of sheeting a fan top spray should be used. Start in the middle and work up to the frame. Avoid allowing the spray to travel over te side or top frames.
Bottom Frame: The bottom frame must be scrubbed and rinsed well to avoid runoff onto a lower row of glass.
Split Rinse: Large panes of glass may require a split rinse scrub in order not to allow the water to dry on the glass.
Touch up Re-Rinse: A worker may have to go back after the drying process is complete to rescrub and rinse an area that did not dry clean. It is only necessary to do this on affected areas.
Weep Holes/Frame Joints: Weep holes and frame joints may cause a channeling problem that will leave a streak on glass. A touch up re-rinse is required.
Emergency Control Pole Loss
Never attempt to stop a falling pole once it has moved outside the shoulder area. Attempting to stop a falling pole will most likely result in a worker injury.
Guide the pole toward an open area of grass and LET IT FALL try and direct it away from people, cars, etc.
Do not attempt to re-use without a thorough check for crack or damage. |
