PRE--Construction Window Cleaning

Yes!  That is BEFORE the windows are even put into storage and BEFORE they are installed in the building under construction.  Why?  Many reasons.  First they can be inspected months in advanced before the deadline of completion.  So that if there is any reason they need to be swapped out for replacements there will be plenty of time for this.  There are many defects which can be easily identified at this early stage.  Scratches for one can be seen.  Scratches that happened when the windows were manufactured or in transit to the job site.  If these scratches were discovered just before the deadline it would be difficult to determine exactly who was responsible including the window cleaner.  And impossible to remedy by replacing the windows before completion of the building.

Further if the surfaces were defective/scratch sensitive this could be known early and dealt with.  Possibly by shielding such surfaces with thick protective self cling plastic film.  Then if the windows collected a spray concrete/brickwork sealant, silicone caulk, concrete splatter, paint, wood stain, or anything else they would be protected.  Scratches can result from other trades too.  Which would be protected by this kind of film.  There are other ways to protect glass or low e surfaces from damage if done at this time BEFORE the windows are installed in the building.  If you would like to see a demonstration of this just ask a member of NEGSA.

There are other defects too that can be identified early.  Such as negative deflection, no low e coatings, in gassing of IG units, poorly cleaned surfaces in between IG units from the window manufacturer, delaminating of the PVB film, and more.  So much can be learned at this time.  

Advanced microscopes and other inspection tools are available for making sure all things are as they should be.  More window manufacturers are using protection self cling films these days.  This is a great device!  When it comes time to clean the windows it is so much easier.  All you have to do is peal off the vinyl.  Just be careful you don't get shocked by the static charge.  Wipe the edges and you are good.

Henry