Publication No. AAMA Voluntary Guide Specification for Cleaning and Maintenance of Architectural Anodized Aluminum

Transcription

1 Publication No. AAMA Voluntary Guide Specification for Cleaning and Maintenance of Architectural Anodized Aluminum

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 1. SCOPE PURPOSE GENERAL CARE AFTER INSTALLATION CLEANING PRECAUTIONS FIELD PROTECTION AND MAINTENANCE OF CLEANED SURFACES EQUIPMENT AND PRODUCTS...11 This booklet was developed by the representative members of AAMA as advisory information and published as a public service. AAMA disclaims all liability for the use. Application or adaption of materials published herein. Copyright 1984 AAMA, 2700 River Road, Des Plaines, Illinios (312)

3 VOLUNTARY GUIDE SPECIFICATION FOR CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE OF ARCHITECTURAL ANODIZED ALUMINUM 1. SCOPE 2. PURPOSE 1.1 This recommendation outlines methods, equipment and materials applicable for cleaning anodized aluminum after construction and for subsequent periodic maintenance. 1.2 The methods outlined herein are intended for use on anodized architectural products, whether rolled or extruded shapes, including window and door frames, store fronts and entrances, curtain walls, mullions, columns, panels, handrails, flagpoles and hardware. 1.3 Types of architectural anodized finishes are: Clear Oxide Integral Color Electrolyically Deposited Color This information is intended to serve as a guide and will be useful to architects, owners, building managers, contractors, and others in the building industry who are interested in the proper care and maintenance of anodized aluminum. Herein are described safe, practical methods for the cleaning, maintenance and protection of anodized aluminum. 3. GENERAL 3.1 As with any finished building material, aluminum requires reasonable care prior to and during installation and periodic cleaning and maintenance after installation. Although anodized aluminum possesses exceptional resistance to corrosion, discoloration and wear, its natural beauty can be marred by harsh chemicals rough conditions or neglect. Such conditions usually affect only the surface finish and do not reduce the service life of the aluminum. However, the marks resulting from such mistreatment may be permanent. All surfaces exposed to the atmosphere collect soil and dirt depending on geographic area, environmental conditions, finish and location on the building. These factors and the owner s attitude regarding surface appearance determine the type and frequency of cleaning required. The aluminum cleaning schedule should be integrated with other cleaning schedules for efficiency and economy. For example, both the glass and the aluminum curtain wall can be cleaned at the same time. -3-

4 3.2 Cleaning may be required more often in one geographic area than another when appearance is of prime importance. More frequent cleaning will be required in heavy industrialized areas as compared to rural areas. Seasonal rainfall can affect washing frequency by removing water soluble deposits and less adherent soil. In foggy coastal regions, frequent cycles of condensation and drying can create a heavy buildup of atmospheric salts and dirt which may adhere tenaciously. In climates where the rainfall is low, the opportunity for atmospheric washing of the surface is minimal. Los Angeles, for example, has a unique combination of limited rainfall, temperature fluctuation smog and condensation which requires more frequent cleaning than other metropolitan areas with more frequent rainfall. 3.3 In both wet and dry climates, recessed and sheltered areas usually become more heavily soiled because of the lack of rain washing. More frequent and longer periods of condensation also occur in protected areas increasing the adhesion of the soil. This is particularly true of soffit areas on overhangs, bottom areas of facia panels, sheltered column covers and the like. Periodic maintenance inhibits long-term accumulation of soil which, under certain conditions, can accelerate weathering of the finish. The more frequently aluminum is cleaned, the easier and less costly the succeeding maintenance is. 4. CARE AFTER INSTALLATION Cleaning procedures to remove construction soils or accumulated environmental soils and discoloration should be initiated as soon as practical. Depending upon the degree of soiling, several procedures are possible. 4.1 Removal of Light Surface Soil Removal of light surface soil may be accomplished by alternative methods as described in 4.1.1, 4.1.2, and Work should start at the top of the building by rinsing an area the width of the stage or scaffolding to the ground level in continuous drop with forceful water spray. This should be done at the beginning and end of each drop regardless of the final cleaning materials employed. Only trial and error testing employing progressively stronger cleaning procedures can determine which will be most effective The simplest procedure is to flush the surface with moderate pressure to dislodge the soil. -4-

5 4.1.2 If the soil is still present after air drying the surface, clean the surface with a brush or sponge and water (concurrent spraying water and sponging) If soil is still adhering, then a mild detergent cleaner should be used with brushing or sponging. The washing should be accomplished with uniform pressure, cleaning first with a horizontal motion and then a vertical motion. The surfaces must be thoroughly rinsed by spraying with clean water and thoroughly dried MEK or similar clean-up solvent wiping is recommended if it is necessary to remove oils, wax, polish and other materials. Caution: MEK and similar solvents may damage organic sealants, gaskets and finishes used on window, curtain wall and storefront assemblies. They must be used with great care and not allowed to come in contact with organic materials. Their use must be avoided on anodic finishes protected by clear organic coatings. Organic solvents should be used only in accordance with manufacturer s safety 4.2 Removal of Heavy Surface Soil If surface soil still adheres after using procedures under 4.1, cleaning with the assistance of an abrasive pad can be employed. Caution: These procedures must not be used on surfaces with a factory applied clear organic protective coating (lacquer) unless the clear coating has deteriorated and should be removed Hand scrub the metal surface using a palm-sized nylon abrasive cleaning pad such as Norton Bear-Tex No. 668 or 3M Scotch Brite No. 7447, thoroughly wet with fresh water or a mild detergent cleaner. Start at the top and work down, rubbing with uniform pressure across the metal surface in the direction of the metal grain. The 3M INSTA-LOK hand block No. 952 fitted with the nylon abrasive cleaning pad is convenient for hand scrubbing large flat surface areas Scrubbing with a nylon cleaning pad wet with surface protectant material is also suggested for removing stubborn soils and stains (See paragraph 6.1) After scrubbing, the metal surface should be rinsed thoroughly with clean water or wiped with solvent to remove all solvents. It may be necessary to sponge the surface while rinsing, particularly if cleaner is permitted to dry on the surface. -5-

6 4.2.3 The rinsed surface is either permitted to air dry or is wiped dry with a chamois, squeegee or lint free cloth Use of power cleaning tools may be necessary for removal of unusually heavy soils from large areas including panels and column covers. In such cases, an air-driven reciprocating machine fitted with NORTEN BEAR- TEX no. 668 or 3M SCOTCH BRITE no abrasive pads can be employed. During this operation, the surface being cleaned must be continually wetted with clean water or mild detergent cleaning solution to provide lubrication and a medium for carrying away the dirt. The cleaning solution may be applied to the panels by sponging or brushing. Water may be applied in the same manner, by spraying from a hose or by utilizing the water connection on the cleaning machine. The machine is moved over the metal by the operator with a sufficient number of overlapped passes to effect maximum cleaning. The direction of travel with the cleaning machine is dependant largely upon the geometric configuration of the surface being cleaned. However, when possible, the machine strokes should be made first in one direction and then in a direction perpendicular to the first; (e.g. horizontal followed by vertical passes). Areas which are not accessible with the machine must be manually cleaned as in paragraph Inspection Rinsing After an area has been machine scrubbed, it must be rinsed with clean water and thoroughly scrubbed with a fairly stiff bristle brush. While still wet, a final water rinse without brushing completes this cleaning operation. The rinsed surface is either permitted to air dry or is wiped dry with a squeegee, chamois, or lint free cloth. It is important to remove promptly from uncleaned lower portions of the building any cleaner rundown to avoid staining. It is suggested that the building owner provide an engineer or representative to inspect the cleaning work to ensure satisfactory clean appearance of the building Metal seams, crevices, sills and any other area that may trap water, cleaner or dirt must be cleaned and thoroughly dried. These trap areas must be hand wiped with absorbent towels or cloths to prevent rundown streaks or puddling which will cause a later discoloration. -6-

7 4.3.2 Inspect metal surfaces for any discoloration or stains not removed during cleaning operations. Soil or discolorations still remaining should be manually cleaned until a satisfactory appearance is achieved. These stubborn surface soils should be scrubbed in a uniform direction using a nylon pad and cleaner solution. 5. CLEANING PRECAUTIONS Here s a common sense summary of cleaning recommendations for architectural aluminum finishes. 5.1 Correctly identify the aluminum finish to be cleaned when selecting an appropriate cleaning method. Check specifications and/or as built drawings if in doubt as to finish. 5.2 Never use aggressive alkaline or acid cleaners on aluminum finishes. It is important not to use cleaners containing trisodium phosphate, phosphoric acid, hydrochloric acid, hydrofluoric acid, fluorides, or similar compounds on anodizes aluminum surfaces. Always follow the recommendations of the cleaner manufacturer as to the proper cleaner and concentration. Test clean a small area first. Different cleaners should not be mixed. 5.3 It is preferable to clean the metal when shaded. Do not attempt to clean hot, sunheated surfaces since possible chemical reactions on hot metal surfaces will be highly accelerated and cleaning nonuniformity can occur. Surfaces cleaned under these adverse conditions can become streaked or stained so that they cannot be restored to their original appearance. Also avoid cleaning in freezing temperatures or when metal temperatures are sufficiently cold to cause condensation. 5.4 Apply the cleaning solution only to an area that can be conveniently cleaned without changing position. Thoroughly rinse the surface with clean water before applying cleaner. Minimize cleaner rundown over the lower portions so the building and rinse such areas as soon and as long as practical. 5.5 Cleaners containing strong organic solvents will have a deleterious effect on organic overlay coatings, but not on anodized aluminum. The possibility of solvents extracting stain-producing chemicals from sealants and affecting the function of the sealants, however, must be considered. Test a small area first. -7-

8 5.6 Strong cleaners should not be used on windows and other building accessories where it is possible for the cleaner to come into contact with the aluminum. Solutions of water and mild detergents should be used on windows. If for some particular reason, an aggressive cleaner is required for some other component of the building, extreme care must be taken to prevent the cleaner from contacting the aluminum finish. 5.7 Do not use excessive abrasive rubbing to remove stubborn stains. Such procedures can result in an even more undesirable appearance or adversely affect the finish. 6. FIELD PROTECTION AND MAINTENANCE OF CLEANED SURFACES 6.1 Wipe-On Surface Protectants (Long Term) General Information When the anodized aluminum is clean and thoroughly dry, a wipe-on surface protectant may be applied. Such protectants properly applied can benefit architectural aluminum in two ways. First, it helps protect aluminum finishes and, second, it makes subsequent maintenance easier. It is very important that the manufacturer s recommendations be carefully followed when these surface protectants are employed. Clean aluminum only should be protected or soil can become embedded in the protectant, creating an unsightly appearance. Estimated protection period is 12 to 24 months depending upon exposure, environment and maintenance routine. -8-

9 6.1.1 Typical Application Procedures (Manufacturer s recommendations should be followed) Wipe Spray A soft lint free cloth (baby diapers are ideal) folded into a pad like shape is the most efficient applicator to use around windows, doors, entrances, extruded shapes and irregular surfaces. For cloth application, thoroughly wet the cloth with suitable material and wring out excess. Fold the damp (not dripping wet) cloth and wipe briskly with uniform surface pressure. Always wipe in a uniform single direction from top to bottom or left to right. A sponge mop with a soft diaper cloth wrapped on the sponge makes an ideal applicator for large, flat surface areas such as curtain wall panels. A 1/4" thick felt pad mounted on a squeegee (in place of a rubber wipe blade) is also satisfactory for coating large panels. The applicator tool must span the entire panel width to avoid overlap marks. When using a felt pad applicator or sponge mop wrapped with a diaper cloth, saturate the applicator with protectant material and squeeze out excess. Apply uniform edge pressure (as when using a squeegee) from top of panel moving in one vertical stroke to extreme bottom. An extension handle will permit top to bottom application of tall panels in one stroke. Full uniform pressure on the applicator will provide a uniformly wet surface without runs, sags, drips or streaks. Apply additional material to applicator only prior to beginning a full top to bottom stroke to avoid overlap marks. Areas which are not accessible or convenient for the applicator such as corners, edges, configurated shapes and narrow extrusions should be hand coated using a folded lint free cloth. The use of spray equipment is practical only for well protected areas or in-plant applications. Overspray is not easily controlled at outdoor job sites, creating a need for masking and other precautionary measures. Application by conventional or electrostatic spray guns must be performed under properly controlled conditions. A single spray pass will uniformly wet the the metal surface. Low atomizing and fluid feed pressures are suggested. Depending upon spray nozzle openings, pressures below 10 psg are usually ideal for maximum efficiency. -9-

10 6.1.2 Precautions Always coat a small area first to develop application technique Do not permit puddling or accumulation of protectant on horizontal surfaces To avoid solvent irritation of hands, it is recommended that polyethylene or solvent resistant gloves be worn Avoid getting protectant on glass, plastic and newly painted surfaces. Masking is suggested whenever practical A proper solvent must be used for clean-up and for removal of protectant from glass or anodized surfaces Read Cautionary Information on container carefully Frequency The type and frequency of cleaning and coating will vary with the amount of atmospheric soil and dirt accumulated on the surfaces and the owner s desires regarding appearance. Periodic re-application of wipe-on surface protectants will assist in maintaining the appearance and will reduce the cleaning required. Whenever possible, the aluminum maintenance should be integrated with the glass cleaning for efficiency and economy. Estimated protection period is 12 to 24 months depending upon exposure, environment and maintenance routine. 6.2 Waxes (Short Term) Waxes can best be used on such applications as handrails, doors window frames, entrances and other readily available areas. It is generally not practical to use these materials on high rise portions of the building. Because of the many different waxes available, it is well to follow the manufacturer s recommendations for any specific product. However, certain procedures are common to most waxes. Clean surfaces only should be waxed, or soil can be embedded in the wax. Liquid and paste waxes should be applied with a soft clean cloth. If buffing is required, use another soft cloth. The clean appearance of the waxed finish can be prolonged by periodic rinsing with clean water or wiping with a clean damp cloth. When the waxed finish begins to dull in appearance or when the wax coating softens or discolors, remove all wax with an appropriate compatible solvent or detergent and abrasive pad, then re-wax if desired. Estimated protection is 1 to 3 months depending upon exposure and environment. -10-

11 7. EQUIPMENT AND PRODUCTS The following list of proprietary equipment and products is included merely as an aid in identifying such materials and categories previously described. No attempt has been made by AAMA to evaluate their effectiveness, nor does listing here constitute an endorsement. The list is not considered to be all-inclusive; other products equally suitable for the intended purpose may be available. Responsibility for selection, determination of suitability, and proper use of any equipment, cleaning or coating product is left to the user. 7.1 Mild Soaps and Detergents and Non-Etching Cleaners Aluminum Cleaner HC-22 - Klenzade Products Division of Economic Labs Beloit, WI AMS # 35 - Aluminum Maintenance Systems, Inc LaVadena Drive Laguna Hills, CA Cascade/ Ivory Liquid - The Proctor and Gamble Company Ivory Snow/Joy/Thrill P.O. Box 599 Cincinnati, OH Clepo 83-M - Frederick Gumm Chemical Company, Inc. 538 Forest Street Kearny, NJ Fels Soap Granules - Fels & Company Division Purex Corporation 73 rd & Woodland Avenue Philadelphia, PA Fleetline JC-5 - Oakite Products, Inc. 50 Valley Road Berkeley Heights, NJ Ridisol Achem Products, Inc. 300 Brookside Avenue Ambler, PA -11-

12 7.2 Abrasive Cleaning Pads Bear-Tex No Norton Cleaning & Finishing Products Troy, NY Scotch Brite No M INSTA-LOK Hand Block No Building Services & Cleaning Products Division 3M Company St. Paul, MN 7.3 Cleaning Machines Sunstrand Model1000a - Sunstrand Machine Tool Division of or Model 1000F with Sunstrand Corporation No. URM 2165 shoes and Belvidere, IL URM 2119 back-up pads This air-drive sander has two pads approximately 4" x 9". Between both pads of the Model 1000A is a perforated tube which sprays water unto the panel surface during cleaning. Hence, two 1/4" hose attachments are provided: One for waterand the other for compressed air. This sander operates on psig and cfm. As with all air-driven motors, an in-line oiler must be provided between the compressor and the sander to entrail lightweight non-detergent machine oil (not to exceed 10SAE) in the air and thus provide lubrication for the sander. The lubrication rate is five (5) drops per minute through the sight glass of a fog type lubricator or one (1) drop every 2 minutes for drip type lubricator Air Compressor For maximum efficiency, a compressor with about 100 psig capacity will be required; the air delivery rate required is determined from the number of tools that will be simultaneously operated. For example, 24 cfm could be required to operate two (2) sanders (each requiring 12 cfm). For small jobs and cleaning tests, a substantially smaller (50-75 psig and 4-6 cfm) portable compressor may be used. However, cleaning will require more time owing to slower action of the pneumatic sander. -12-

13 7.4 Wipe-on Surface Protectants Aluma-Care AMS 300 Series 7.5 Waxes Aerowax Beautifloor Liquid Wax No. 5051/Wax Emulsion/Wax Plate 12 - The Coricone Corporation 540 Frontage Road Northfield, IL Aluminum Maintenance Systems, Inc LaCadena Drive Laguna Hills, CA - Boyle-Midway, Inc. New York, NY S.C. Johnson & Sons, Inc. Carnu Street Racine, WI Dupont 7 New Car Wax Paste Wax Triumph X-OL - E.I. DuPont de Nemours & Company Wilmington, DE - Texize Chemicals, Inc. Greenville, SC - Arcal Chemicals, Inc th Avenue Seat Pleasant, MD - Turco Products Division of Purex Corporation, Ltd. Wilmington, CA 7.6 Gloves Buna-N Solvex - Edmont-Wilson Company Coschocton, OH 7.7 Clean-up Solvents MEK Xylene Acetone Toluene -13-

14 Publication No. AAMA Voluntary Guide Specification for Cleaning and Maintenance of Painted Aluminum Extrusions and Curtain Wall Panels

15 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 1. SCOPE PURPOSE GENERAL CLEANING PROCEDURES AND CARE AFTER INSTALLATION CLEANING OF MEDIUM TO HEAVY SOIL SUMMARY OF GENERAL CLEANING TIPS GENERAL INSPECTION AND PRECAUTIONS...7 This booklet was developed by the representative members of AAMA as advisory information and published as a public service. AAMA disclaims all liability for the use. Application or adaption of materials published herein. Copyright 1984 AAMA, 2700 River Road, Des Plaines, Illinios (312)

16 VOLUNTARY GUIDE SPECIFICATION FOR CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE OF PAINTED ALUMINUM EXTRUSIONS AND CURTAIN WALL PANELS 1. SCOPE 2. PURPOSE This recommendation covers procedures for cleaning and maintenance of painted aluminum extrusions and curtain wall panels. The procedures are intended for application with painted, architectural aluminum extrusions such as window frames, door frames, railings and trim as well as curtain wall panels, column covers, spandrels, mullions, louvers, vertical trim, etc. These recommendations are intended to assist architects, contractors, owners, building managers, et al., who are concerned with the care and maintenance of painted, architectural aluminum. The information contains suggested methods as an aid in establishing safe, sound cleaning and maintenance procedures. 3. GENERAL 3.1 Organic coatings on aluminum do not normally show an appreciable amount of dirt collection. In many atmospheres dirt or soil would not indicate a detrimental risk to the coating, but cleaning and surface care may be desirable for the sake of appearance. Cleaning may become desirable on areas where heavy industrial deposits have dulled the surface, where materials from construction processes have soiled the surface or where cleaner run-down from other surfaces should be removed. Local atmospheric conditions as well as building location within a geographical area quite naturally have an effect on cleanliness. Very often, rainfall may be sufficient to keep exterior surfaces appearing clean and bright. These factors coupled with owner attitude regarding surface appearance probably would determine cleaning schedules. Areas that are in direct sight at lower levels would more likely be cleaned. Less obvious areas would be less frequently cleaned or in some instances, hardly at all. Cleaning of painted aluminum may be scheduled with other cleaning. For example, glass and painted aluminum components can be cleaned at the same time. 3.2 Cleaning will be more often required in areas of low rainfall (i.e. Los Angeles) or in heavily industrialized areas. Foggy coastal regions with frequent cycles of condensation and drying may tend to give a buildup of atmospheric salts and dirt. In any climate, sheltered areas such as overhangs, may become soiled because of lack of rain washing. Thorough rinsing is especially important after cleaning of these sheltered areas. -3-

17 3.3 If automatic wall cleaning equipment is to be used on a building, a test should be made early in equipment design to insure that the cleaning solutions, brushes, as well as the frequency of cleaning should be taken into consideration to insure that there is no detrimental effect on the coating. 4. CLEANING PROCEDURES AND CARE AFTER INSTALLATION Construction soils, including concrete or mortar, etc. should be removed as soon as possible. The exact procedure for cleaning will vary depending on the nature and degree of soil. Try to restrict cleaning to mild weather. Cleaning should be done on the shaded side of the building or ideally on a mild, cloudy day. Method of cleaning, type of cleaner, etc., of one component of the building must be used with consideration for other components such as glass, sealants, painted surfaces, etc. 4.1 Removal of light surface soil may be accomplished in several ways. Some testing is recommended to determine the degree of cleaning actually necessary to accomplish the task. Ideally, an initial step of forceful water rinse from the top down is recommended prior to any cleaner application. Low water volume with moderate pressure is much better than considerable volume with low pressure. Physical rubbing with soft, wet brushes, sponges or cloth is also helpful The simplest procedure would be to apply the water rinse with moderate pressure to dislodge the soil. If this does not remove the soil, then a concurrent water spray with brushing or sponging should be tested. If the soil is still adhering after drying, then a mild detergent will be necessary When a mild detergent or mild soap is necessary for removal of soil, it should be used with brushing or sponging. The washing should be done with uniform pressure, cleaning first with a horizontal motion and then with a vertical motion. Apply cleaners only to an area that can be conveniently cleaned without changing position. The surface must be thoroughly rinsed with clean water. It may be necessary to sponge the surface while rinsing, particularly if cleaner is permitted to dry on the surface. The rinsed area is permitted to air dry or is wiped dry with a chamois, squeegee or lint free cloth. -4-

18 4.1.3 Run-down of cleaner (from any operation) to the lower portions of the building should be minimized and these areas should be rinsed as soon as and as long as necessary. To lessen streaking, etc. from unavoidable rundown, lower areas should be kept wet or flooded with water. Do not allow cleaning chemicals to collect or to puddle on horizontal surfaces, crevices, etc. These should be flushed with water and dried. Always clean coated surfaces down from top to bottom and follow through with a thorough rinsing with clean water. (With one storey or low elevation buildings, it is recommended to clean from bottom up and rinse from top down) Mild Detergents - Mild soap or detergents ruled safe for bare hands should be safe for coated aluminum. Stronger detergents and some dishwater detergent should be carefully spot tested. Some of the latter would necessitate rubber gloves, long handled brushes, etc. With any, the finish should be thoroughly rinsed with clean water and dried. Some mild cleaning solutions, which would comprise of selected wetting agents in water solution, are available for automatic building washing machines. These machines would have built in brush agitation, squeegee, filtration and re-circulation; in some a fresh water connection may be provided. 5. CLEANING OF MEDIUM TO HEAVY SOIL 5.1 Some type of mild solvent such as mineral spirits may be used to remove grease, sealant or caulking compounds. Stronger solvent or solvent containing cleaners may have a deleterious or softening effect on paints. To prevent harm to the finish, these types of solvent or emulsion cleaners should be spot tested and preferably the coating manufacturer should be consulted. Care should be taken to assure that no marring of the surface is taking place in this manner since this could give an undesirable appearance at certain viewing angles. Cleaners of this type are usually applied with a clean cloth and removed with a cloth. Remaining residue should be washed with mild soap and rinsed with water. Use solvent cleaners sparingly It may be possible for solvents to extract materials from sealants which could stain the painted surface or could prove harmful to sealants; therefore, these possible effects must be considered. Test a small area first. -5-

19 5.2 If cleaning of a heavy surface soil has been postponed or in the cases of an especially tenacious soil, stubborn stains, etc., a more aggressive cleaner and technique may be required. Cleaner and technique should be matched to the soil and the painted finish. Some local manual cleaning may be needed at this point. Always follow the recommendations of the cleaner manufacturer as to proper cleaner and concentration. Test clean a small area first. Cleaners should not be used indiscriminately. Do not use excessive, abrasive rubbing as such may alter surface texture or may impart a shine to the surface Concrete spillage that has dried on the painted surface may become quite stubborn to remove. Special cleaners and/or vigorous rubbing with nonabrasive brushes or plastic scrapers may be necessary. Diluted solutions of Muriatic Acid (under 10%) may be effective in removing dried concrete stains, however, a test area should be tried first, and proper handling precautions must be exercised for safety reasons. Also, effective proprietary cleaners for concrete and mortar staining are available. 5.3 Never Mix Cleaners - The mixing of cleaners may not only be ineffective, but also very dangerous. For example, mixing of chlorine containing materials such as bleaches, with other cleaning compounds containing ammonia, can result in poison gas emission. 5.4 Always rinse afer removal of heavy soil surface. 6. SUMMARY OF GENERAL CLEANING TIPS 6.1 Over-cleaning or excessive rubbing can do more harm than good 6.2 Strong solvents or strong cleaner concentrations can cause damage to painted surfaces. 6.3 Avoid abrasive cleaners. Do not use household cleaners that contain abrasives on painted surfaces. 6.4 Abrasive materials such as steel wool, abrasive brushes, etc., can wear and harm finishes. 6.5 Avoid drips and splashes. Remove run-downs as quickly as possible. -6-

20 6.6 Avoid temperature extremes. Heat accelerates chemical reactions and may evaporate water from solution. Extremely low temperature may give poor cleaning effects. Cleaning under adverse conditions may result in streaking or staining. Ideally, cleaning should be done in shade at moderate temperature. 6.7 Do not substitute a heavy duty cleaner for a frequently used mild cleaner. 6.8 Do not scour painted surfaces. 6.9 Never use paint removers, aggressive alkaline, acid or abrasive cleaners. Do not use trisodium phosphate or highly alkaline or highly acid cleaners. Always do a test surface Follow manufacturer s recommendations for mixing and diluting cleaners Never mix cleaners. (See 5.3 for precautions) 6.12 To prevent marring, make sure cleaning sponges, cloth, etc., are grit free 6.13 An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. 7. GENERAL INSPECTION AND PRECAUTIONS 7.1 Inspection It is suggested that the building owner provide a qualified inspector who will see that the desired effect is being obtained with the use of sound procedures. Inspection should commence early in the cleaning procedure. 7.2 Building Surroundings Consideration must be given to possible effects of run-down on shrubbery, personnel, equipment, etc., located below. These factors may require considerations toward methods of timing. -7-

21 Molecular Sieve M13 ZEOCHEM Selective Absorbent for Insulating Glass Description: Application: Composition: 100 % molecular sieve in spherical form M13 is used for drying the airspace inside insulating glass units, in conjunction with either a single seal hot melt butyl, a single seal polyurethane or dual seal sealant system where PIB is used as the primary seal. M13 is recommended and the preferred type absorbent for gas filled IG units when using any of the above sealant systems. M13 virtually eliminates glass deflection due to nitrogen absorption within the airspace. M13 is fully activated and requires no regeneration prior to being filled into spacers. M13 has excellent absorption capacity for water vapour. Synthetic Potassium/Sodium Aluminosilicate Typical Properties: Water Absorption Capacity 21% at saturation Attainable Dewpoint Below -90 F Nominal Bulk Density 45lbs/cu. ft gm/ml Particle Size: 1-2mm (9x16 mesh) or mm (9x32 mesh) Testing: The activity of M13 can easily be determined by testing with the Zeochem absorbents teat apparatus and corresponding product chart. Packaging: Bag 50 lbs. net Fibre Drum 150 lbs. net All drums with inner polyethylene liner Steel Drum 300 lbs. net Storage: Zeochem absorbents should be stored in a dry place top protect the product activity and freshness. These products can cause a rise in temperature if they are exposed to moisture. Ventilation should be available in the work area where absorbents are used. The information contained herein is based upon testing and is believed to accurate. Since operating conditions may vary and since we do not control such conditions, we must DISCLAIM ANY WARRANTY, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, with regard to results obtained by the use of our products or with regard to application of Zeochem techniques. ZEOCHEM Chemie Uetikon Subsidiary P.O. Box Louisville, KY Telephone 502/ Fax 502/

22 Frost On Windows TECHNICAL BULLETIN TB-7 March, 1993 Frost on the Outside Face of VISIONWALL Windows Frost can periodically occur on the outside face of VISIONWALL windows. This is a natural occurrence and is a visible indication of the good insulating characteristics of the window. Frost is an Indication of Good Thermal Performance The frost on the outside sheet of glass is from moisture condensing on the glass. The temperature of the glass has to be below the air temperature for frost to form. In a high performance VISIONWALL window, the outside sheet of glass can be colder than the outdoor air during the night when there is no solar radiation of either a direct or diffuse nature. This is because the window loses heat to the night sky by radiation. The heat flow through the window from the warm interior space is so low that it does not keep the outside glass warm enough to avoid condensation. Frost does not usually form on conventional windows because the heat loss is great enough to keep the outer glass surface warm. Frost Occurs on All Well-Insulated Exterior Building Components This frost phenomenon is frequently seen on the insulated spandrel panel sections of conventional curtain walls. These panels, like VISIONWALL windows, are good insulators and consequently their outer surface can be below outside air temperature at certain times of the year. No Interior Condensation Since the interior surface of a VISIONWALL window or curtain wall is within a few degrees of room temperature, condensation does not appear on the inner surface, even in extremely cold weather and/or high relative humidity conditions. For more information on how the VISIONWALL window and curtain wall system resists interior condensation, see our Technical Bulletin TB-9 titled Condensation on Windows. The better the thermal performance of a window, the more often there will be frost on the outer glass surface in the early morning. The frost will disappear very quickly, even in the coldest weather, after the morning sun rises. One of a series of VISIONWALL Technical Bulletins providing information to the building design community.