There are many severe limitations of a WFP. They are very well known by almost everyone. But are universally ignored because of the extreme advantages of this kind of work. So I won't list them out in this small article. Rather I prefer to address a few of the ways we have had success in getting around some of them.
Ordinary heavy dirt can be removed by using a flat scrub pad made of 0000 steel wool, very fine bronze wool, plastic scrub pads that will not scratch glass, and other super abrasive plastic media. Organic (woody) scrubbing media have the tendency of absorbing water and can become soft. Some types of crushed/powderized nut shells and other similar materials are more prone to this problem than others.
I hesitate in mentioning any of the organic or mineral acids that will not readily etch glass surfaces or titanium dioxide low e coated surfaces. Although it is true that they do exist. You can either call, text, or email me for some direct answers to this question. But I will always suggest that you perform the tests yourself. These tests also are good for the alkalies such as sodium or potassium hydroxide. The greatest problem is that because glass has many chemical "reaction sites" on the surface damage can easily result. If other conditions are present at the time that these chemicals are used. Nonetheless it is true that there are certain times when certain liquid organic solvents, mineral acids, and alkaline liquids with a pH above 7;...can be safely used.
To substantiate my point here all I have to do is site a very well known scientific fact that pure water with a pH of 7 is known to etch glass under the right conditions. One of my most interesting statements by Paul Duffer was that, "Glass surfaces are alive.". Meaning that a glass surface is always chemically active. It is always changing dependent on time, temperature, and humidity.
I always advise never using chemicals like sulfuric acid, ammoniumbifluoride, and hydrofluoric acid. Even in very low concentrations. With a water fed pole or trad work.
My goal here is to create a group of window cleaning professionals worldwide that can double as consultants to the building and other industries. Called IGSA. This is something I have given a great deal of thought to. Along the way I have met up with many incredible people. Which I am certain will jump on such an opportunity. The best way to make it happen I am thinking now is to help them and others do the work that will help them hands on to acquire the knowledge and experience needed to become members of such a group.
I am not going to promise anything. But will begin by starting a series of papers called the IGSA Tests and Standards. It will end when I end. But hopefully it will help to form a small group of professional window cleaning consultants who will lead our industry in a direction where we will be more respected for our expertise.
And so I will change this blog once again to refocus on the IGSA Tests and Standards. Along with the technology of new product development of course. Forensic Window Cleaning is actually a precursor to such a change. Although I didn't know it at the time of writing these articles/posts.
Winter, right before the IWCA Convention is a great time to begin this. IGSA Tests will be available by email, billed by PayPal to start, and be priced at 25 dollars per issue. I will send you an email once you subscribe when the next one is available. The first one is called, "Testing Mineral Acids for Glass Surface Safety".
Hope you enjoy!
Written by Henry Grover Jr.
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