Glass railings are popular in modern housing and commercial buildings. They offer an elegant look while providing safety. However, after installing them, a question might arise: should contractors clean the newly installed glass railings?
While some of the contractors include cleaning, most don’t include it as a part of their service. It is the duty of the property owner to daily clean and maintain their glass railings and keep them both spotless and in great condition.
Glass Railing Maintenance
Maintaining glass railings is a must for preserving their beauty and keeping them functional over time. After installation, glass railings accumulate dust, dirt, grime, and other residues pretty quickly, which can tarnish their polished look. If not cleaned promptly, the dirt can become harder to remove and may cause damage to the glass and its finish.
While contractors might clean the railings as a courtesy, their primary responsibility is the installation of railing and most don't include cleaning. It's the responsibility of homeowners and property managers to take proactive steps and maintain glass railings regularly.
How To Keep Glass Railings Clean
To clean glass railings you need to assess the type of residue you're dealing with. Here are some ways to tackle common cleaning challenges:
Cleaning Dust/Dirt
Dust and dirt is most common, when it comes to dirty glass railings. To clean them:
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Use a microfiber cloth or a soft-bristled brush to remove loose particles.
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Then spray with a mixture of water and a dish soap.
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Wipe properly and dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent streaks.
Regular dusting will prevent any major buildup and make deep cleaning less frequent.
Removing Grime
Grime will accumulate over time, especially when outdoors. To remove it properly:
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You can use vinegar mixture, ammonia glass cleaners, or a mixture of dish soap and warm water and spray it on the grime.
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Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the grime.
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Gently scrub the surface with a non-abrasive sponge.
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Rinse with water and dry with a clean cloth.
It is strongly advised to avoid hard mixtures as it can take away the shine of the glass.
Cleaning Off Animal Droppings
Animal droppings like bird poop are very annoying to deal with, they can be both unsightly and damaging to glass railings. Here’s how to tackle them:
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Wear gloves and use a damp cloth to remove as much of the dropping.
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Spray with apple cider vinegar as it has strong antimicrobial properties best for animal droppings.
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Let it sit for a few minutes, then gently scrub the area.
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Rinse and dry thoroughly to avoid streaks or stains.
Removing Water Spots
Water spots are common in areas with hard water and can appear after rain or snowstorms. To remove them:
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Mix 50% water and 50% white vinegar in a spray bottle.
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Spray onto the water spots and let it sit for a few minutes.
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Wipe with a microfiber cloth.
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Wash with clean water and dry the surface quickly.
You can use a protective coating on the glass to help reduce the frequency of tackling water spots.
Conclusion
Contractors may or may not clean newly installed glass railings, but maintaining and cleaning them is the responsibility of the property owners. Knowing the basics of glass railing maintenance and how to tackle specific cleaning challenges will keep your railings crystal clear and stylish for years to come. With regular care, glass railings will continue to enhance the beauty and functionality of your house.