Different types of glass can be found throughout your home and in your vehicle, and some may require a bit more attention than others when you are cleaning. A few basic rules apply regardless. These include using a commercial glass cleaner or a mixture of one part vinegar and four parts water; cleaning from top to bottom; and avoiding cleaning in direct sunlight to prevent streaking. If the glass is particularly grimy, starting with warm soapy water also works well to remove larger dirt particles first. It’s also important to use clean towels and microfibre cloths.

Annealed glass or standard glass is most common. It is strong but breaks into large shards. It is easy to clean with soap and water, and you can scrub gently on areas with tougher stuck-on debris without damaging the glass. Use a squeegee to remove the soap and water and dry thoroughly with a microfibre cloth.

Tempered glass, also referred to as safety glass, is a glass that has been heated to approximately 1200 degrees Fahrenheit and then immediately cooled. This process causes the glass to become extremely strong and resistant to easy breakage. If it does break, it breaks into tiny popcorn size pieces. As tempered glass scratches more easily than annealed glass, use a good quality glass cleaner and soft microfibre cloths. Never scrub vigorously or scrape with a razor blade to remove stuck-on dirt.

Glass coated with low-E or reflecting films can be found on the windows of homes and vehicles. To keep the coating in good condition so that it performs its intended job of decreasing heat buildup, you should be mindful as to how you clean this type of glass. As with tempered glass, avoid hard scrubbing and never use razor blades. It’s also advisable to choose a window cleaner that doesn’t contain ammonia.

At First Response Glass, you’ll be able to find the perfect glass for your custom project. Make an appointment to speak to one of our knowledgeable experts!