Use And Care Manual
WINDOWS AND DOORS
USE AND CARE GUIDE
GLASS CLEANING & CARE
3
www.crestlinewindows.com
© 2015 Crestline Mfg., Inc.
Glass – Cleaning and Care
IMPORTANT: Application of reective or tinted lm to
glass in Crestline windows or doors will void your Warranty.
Do not use abrasive cleaners, abrasive
materials, or harsh chemicals to clean glass.
IMPORTANT: If your glass is dirty with solid material like
soil or mud, wash it off with clear water before cleaning
the glass so glass will not be scratched by the solids.
Clean glass as needed with any good glass cleaner from
your supermarket or hardware store or make your own
with 10% vinegar and 90% water. If you use brand-name
glass cleaners, be advised that ammonia or alcohol-based
cleaners can leave a film that is more likely to attract
moisture or dust, and is more likely to streak when cleaned.
To clean the exterior or interior glass, put your premixed
solution in a spray bottle. Spray area to be cleaned with a
generous amount of cleaner and then wipe dry with either a
squeegee or clean, dry, lint-free, soft, cloth. If streaks appear
after cleaning, rinse the glass surface with clear water and dry
thoroughly.
Removing Solids From Glass
When using solvents, cleaners, and tools
always use safe working practices and
follow the manufacturers’ instructions.
When used properly, new razor blades or
metal scrappers that are not gouged may
be used for removing excess sealant or
other unwanted materials from glass. Note
however, glass scratched by a razor blade
or scraper is not covered by the Crestline
Mfg., Inc. Warranty.
To remove caulking, dried paint, or sealant on glass, use
a small amount of denatured alcohol applied to a clean,
dry, cloth first, then wash the glass surface with your cleaning
solution. Remove remaining excess sealant or other unwanted
surface materials by using a new single-edge razor blade. Hold
the blade flat on the glass to avoid scratching the surface while
removing the material.
To remove markings on the glass from adhesives, crayons,
paint, or other materials, apply a small amount of a mild abrasive
cleaner (such as that used for glass cook tops on kitchen stoves)
to a wet cloth. Apply to the spot, rub gently, and then wipe
off with clear water on a clean rag. Solvents such as acetone,
denatured alcohol or mineral spirits may also be tried. Apply
solvents to a clean, dry cloth. Next, lightly rub the area that
needs spot cleaning. Wipe with a clean, dry, cloth. Then wash
the entire glass surface with your cleaning solution.
Defining Dirt
Dirt on glass can best be defined as any unwanted material
on the glass surface. This dirt can be grouped into four (4)
categories.
• Particulates
• Surface Residues
• Reactive Contaminant’s
• Surface Corrosion
Particulates
Particulates are solid materials loosely deposited on the glass
surface that can be removed by wetting the glass surface,
gently sponging, and rinsing thoroughly.
NOTE: Machine pressure washing should be avoided because
of the potential for damage to glass, decorative
elements, siding, and trim. A garden hose, connected
to a standard (un-boosted) household water supply
can be used to remove heavy accumulations.
Surface Residues
Surface residues are Contaminant’s, (like fingerprints, oils, etc.)
that may be removed using a cleaning solution.
Thoroughly wet the surface of the glass, then apply the
cleaning solution with a sponge or soft cloth until the surface
residue is loosened. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
If contaminant remains on the glass after using a cleaning
solution, the contaminant should be identified. Adhesives from
labels or tapes may, for example, not be removed by a
detergent-based or vinegar-based cleaning solution. In this
case, it may be necessary to use an alcohol-based cleaner or an
organic solvent such as paint thinner, mineral spirits or toluene. If
using these materials, follow all appropriate safety precautions.
Reactive Contaminants
Reactive Contaminant’s are more tenacious than surface
residues and may physically or chemically bond with the
glass. Hard-water salts are a commonly encountered reactive
contaminant.
To thoroughly clean these Contaminant’s from the glass
surface, a commercially available acid-base cleaner should be
utilized. Follow the manufacturer’s directions.
Surface Corrosion
Surface corrosion is physical damage to the glass surface.
Acid rain may be one cause.
If the surface damage is not too deep, a polishing/
cleaning compound such as Cerium Oxide
may be used to polish out the affected spots.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions.
Removing Suction Cup Rings on Glass Surfaces
Suction cups are frequently used to safely move glass or hold
it in place during the window and door manufacturing process.
Use & Care
10/15
USE AND CARE GUIDE – CLEANING