Toughened glass is gaining popularity for modern windows. It is safer and more durable than ordinary glass. However, like any material, lack of care can make toughened glass lose its strength and clarity prematurely. You don’t want permanent scratches, stains or cracks ruining the flawless views from your expensive windows over time! Though tougher than regular glass, basic maintenance steps are crucial to helping toughened glass retain its pristine looks for over 20 years.
This article offers five handy tips for the upkeep of your toughened glass windows to help protect your investment and get the most value from it in the long run.
1. Clean the Surface Regularly
Regular cleaning prevents the accumulation of dirt, stains, and chemical deposits that can permanently damage glass over time. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or sponge with temperate water or mild detergents explicitly meant for glass. Clean the glass preferably on overcast days or during early mornings when the surface is relatively cooler. Also, do not let harsh detergents or cleaning residues remain on the glass for extended periods.
2. Inspect for Surface Damage Yearly
Set reminders to thoroughly inspect all exposed glass pane surfaces at least once a year. Pay close attention to vulnerable spots like the frame joints or glass edges in openable windows. Check for any blunt force damage marks, visible scratches, hairline cracks or chipped corners. Also, watch for initial signs of chemical weathering like clouding, hazing or frosty patches.
Minor rubs, abrasions and scratches that may seem harmless can slowly worsen into more severe cracks due to natural weathering over months. Even minor damage left unaddressed leads to safety threats down the line.
3. Re-apply Protective Sealants
The protective weatherproof sealants bordering glass panes bear the maximum brunt of changing temperature, moisture, and sunlight. Sealants like silicone and polyurethane undergo gradual deterioration over the years. Hardening, cracking, shrinkage, or peeling are clear signs it is time to replace worn-out sealants.
Gaps or cracks in aging sealants provide the perfect intrusion channels for moisture to seep in. Trapped moisture accelerates frame decay, causing irreparable clouding between double or triple glass layers. Moreover, improper sealant choices, surface preparation or sloppy application minimizes effectiveness.
4. Moderate Sun Exposure and Temperature Variations
Direct daylight exposure and extreme hot or cold temperatures are enemies of tempered glass windows. Solar heat and ultraviolet rays accelerate the chemical decomposition, leading to permanent staining, frosting and distortion. Meanwhile, sudden ambient temperature fluctuations create expansion-contraction stresses that encourage crack growth over time.
5. Professional Servicing
While DIY care suffices for daily cleaning needs, specialized glazing firms help reinforce your toughened glass windows‘long-term durability better. Expert service providers use customized equipment to efficiently clean glass surfaces without posing any scratch risks – removing the toughest stains and mineral crust buildup.
Furthermore, annual maintenance checks by qualified technicians help identify impending problems you may overlook. They can advise on appropriate repairs for minor flaws detected early on before these turn into expensive replacements later.
Conclusion
Toughened glass windows are built for durability but need care for lasting integrity well over two decades. Follow these fundamental toughened glass maintenance tips to enhance the value of your investment. Monitor for damage periodically and undertake timely fixes to prevent the worsening of unaddressed minor issues over time. With diligent care, your glass windows continue looking pristine for years to come!
For expert guidance and specialized care in maintaining toughened glass windows, consider contacting AIS Windows Expert. With our knowledge and commitment to excellence, we ensure that your investment remains in top-notch condition.
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