| Table 1—Architectural Glass Surface Maintenance (AGSM) MATRIX OF PROFESSIONAL WINDOW CLEANING METHODS AND MATERIALS | ||
| IWCA AGSM Cleaning Category Code | IWCA AGSM Product Application Category | IWCA AGSM Product and Equipment—Type and Application |
| Routine: Type 1 | Routine: Glass or solar panel cleaning— squeegee and hand cleaning/application of detergent | Manual cleaning using a squeegee and hand-applied (brush or applicator) soap or mild detergents diluted with water |
| Routine: Type 2 LEED Certified Properties | Routine: Squeegee and hand cleaning/application of detergents on LEED Certified properties, depending on client specifications, only detergents that meet the Green Seal approval may be used. | Manual cleaning using a squeegee and hand-applied (brush or applicator) soap or mild detergents diluted with water |
| Routine: Type 3 Solar Film present | Routine: Squeegee and hand cleaning of glass with solar film or unique metallic coatings | Cleaning of tinted glass with field-applied solar film often requires specific soaps and/or methods specified by the solar film manufacturer. In general, manufacturers of solar film specify that all cleaning must be performed using ONLY soft cloth applicators; no contact with any metal scrapers or abrasives; use only mild soaps; no ammonia, vinegar, metal tools, abrasive pads, natural sponges, etc. |
| Routine: Type 4 Water-Fed Pole (WFP) | Routine: Water-Fed Pole (WFP) with pure water technology | Water-fed pole using tap water that is treated (de-ionized, reverse osmosis, filtered, etc.) |
| Routine: Type 5 Water-Fed Pole (WFP) with detergent | Routine: Water-Fed Pole (WFP) with pure water technology using mild chemicals or soap | Water-fed pole using tap water that is treated (de-ionized, reverse osmosis, filtered, etc.) and the addition of mild detergents introduced into the water stream |
| Non-Routine: Type 6 Debris and stain removal via organic solvents | Non-routine: Targeting removal of stickers, excess caulking, oxidation, paint, tar, concrete, waterproofing sealants, and general stain removal. This may include deposit and stain removal from weathered glass, construction cleanings, and removal of debris on glass from remodeling activities | Debris removal using any of the following: Organic solvents (typically flammable) or non-metallic scrapers. No use of scrapers or strong acids. Includes deposit and stain removal from weathered glass, construction cleanings, and removal of remodeling activities, concrete, stickers, etc. |
| Non-Routine: Type 7 Debris and stain removal via abrasives | Non-routine: Targeting removal of stickers, excess caulking, oxidation, paint, tar, concrete, waterproofing sealants, and general stain removal. This may include deposit and stain removal from weathered glass, construction cleanings, and removal of debris on glass from remodeling activities. | Debris removal using any of the following: Non-flammable solvents, compounds, microcrystalline abrasives, and non-metallic scrapers. No use of metal scrapers or strong acids. |
| Non-Routine: Type 8 Debris and stain removal via use of metal scrapers and/or strong acids/alkaline | Non-routine: Targeting stain removal of metal oxides, severe oxidation, severe concrete splatter, and Stage 3 corrosion using strong acids or alkali EXCLUDES TINTED OR COATED GLASS PRODUCTS | Debris removal using any of the following: Non-flammable solvents, compounds, strong acids or alkali, or metallic scrapers. Last resort attempt before mechanical polishing. Removal of certain deposits (i.e. large concrete spills on glass) may cause scratching. Depending on conditions, the debris removal is a required step before proceeding to mechanical polishing Non-Routine: Type 9. |
| Non-Routine: Type 9 Mechanical Polishing | Non-Routine: Mechanical Polishing—restoration and scratch removal | Surface restoration involving mechanical polishing using power tools and polishing abrasives |
| Non-Routine: Type 10 Robotic Cleaning | Non-Routine: Robotic Cleaning systems and unmanned automatic systems | Targeting chemicals and soaps used with robotic systems. This could include recycled water, detergents, or pure water technology. |
| Appendix A—Routine Cleaning Products | |||||
| Product Number (IWCA Unique Code) | Product Name(s) | IWCA AGSM Product Type Category | Typical Debris Product Is Effective On: | Product Description—(25 Characters Maximum) | pH (If Applicable) |
| 1.1 | Dish detergent | Mild soaps | **Generally Accepted Products for Routine Cleaning Types 1 through 6 Methods consist of squeegee and hand cleaning, using water and application of detergents. Routine cleaning EXCLUDES the removal of non-water-soluble debris removals such as paint, tar, concrete, caulk, waterproofing compounds, hard water stains, and etching. Excludes the use of flammable solvents to remove debris or stains. | Neutral pH detergent (when diluted) | 7 |
| 1.2 | Ammonia-based cleaners | Alkaline—Mild | Neutral pH detergent (when diluted) | 6.0-7.5 | |
| 1.3 | Anionic surfactants | Mild soaps | Neutral pH detergent (when diluted) | 7 | |
| 2-1.2 | Green Seal Certified Detergents | Only Green Seal approved detergents, soaps, and methods approved by the client or project manager shall be used. | Neutral pH detergent in concentrate | 7 | |
| APPENDIX B—Non-Routine Cleaning Type 6: ORGANIC SOLVENTS | ||||||||
| Product Number (IWCA Unique Code) | Product Name(s) | IWCA AGSM Product Type Category | Typical Debris Product Is Effective On | Flammable? (Y or N) | Flash Point (Flammable Only) | Incompatible Materials | Health and Safety Measures/ PPE | Other Recommendations/ Precautions |
| 2.1 | Acetic Acid (vinegar 1%-3%) | Organic Solvents | Hard water deposits, mineral deposits high in alkaline | N | NA | Strong oxidizing agents. Strong bases. | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | Acetic acid is one of the few organic solvents that has a measurable pH, which in stronger concentrations is 2.4-3.4 |
| 2.2 | Acetone | Organic Solvents | Targets organic sealants such as urethane, paint, varnish lacquer, waterproofing sealants, silicone caulk removal without use of razor blades | Y | 18°C | Strong oxidizing agents, acetic acid Strong acids. Strong bases. | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | |
| 2.3 | Butyl-Cellosolve | Organic Solvents | Targets fire and soot damage on glass, certain architectural metals and painted surfaces (can be safe on baked-on or Kynar-based coatings). Leaves oily residue which must be removed with detergents. | Y | -20°C (-4°F) | Strong oxidizing agents. Strong acids. Strong bases. | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | Highly flammable |
| 2.4 | Carbon tetrachloride (dry cleaning solvent) | Organic Solvents | Cleaning solvent for certain signage, ink removal. | Y | 57°C (135°F) | Strong oxidizing agents. Strong acids. Strong bases. | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | |
| 2.5 | Ethanol | Organic Solvents | See “2.9: Methanol” | Y | -19°C (-2°F) | Strong oxidizing agents (e.g. peroxides, chromic acid). Strong acids (e.g. sulfuric acid, nitric acid). Strong bases (e.g. sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide). | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | |
| 2.6 | Isopropyl alcohol | Organic Solvents | See “2.9: Methanol” | Y | 13°C (55°F) | Strong oxidizing agents (e.g. peroxides, chromic acid). Strong acids (e.g. sulfuric acid, nitric acid). Strong bases (e.g. sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide). | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | |
| 2.7 | Lacquer thinner | Organic Solvents | Targets organic sealants such as urethane, paint, varnish lacquer, waterproofing sealants, silicone caulk removal without use of razor blades | Y | 12°C (54°F) | Strong oxidizing agents (e.g. peroxides, chromic acid). Strong acids (e.g. sulfuric acid, nitric acid). Strong bases (e.g. sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide). | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | |
| 2.8 | Methyl acetate | Organic Solvents | Targets organic sealants such as urethane, paint, varnish lacquer, waterproofing sealants, silicone caulk removal without use of razor blades | Y | -18°C to 4°C (0°F to 39°F) | Strong oxidizing agents. Strong acids. Strong bases. | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | |
| 2.9 | Methanol (methyl alcohol) | Organic Solvents | Alcohol is used as an antifreeze agent when cleaning is performed below 32 degrees. Dilute with water as needed to prevent freezing. | Y | -8°C (18°F) | Strong oxidizing agents (e.g. peroxides, chromic acid). Strong acids (e.g. sulfuric acid, nitric acid). Strong bases (e.g. sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide). | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | Transport in approved containers. Methanol can be diluted with water to be made non-flammable, but, it can never be made non-poisonous. |
| 2.1 | Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) | Organic Solvents | Targets organic sealants such as urethane, paint, varnish lacquer, waterproofing sealants, silicone caulk removal without use of razor blades | Y | 11°C (52°F) | Strong oxidizing agents (e.g. peroxides, chromic acid). Strong acids (e.g. sulfuric acid, nitric acid). Strong bases (e.g. sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide). | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | |
| 2.11 | Mineral Spirits (aka naphtha, turpentine, paint thinner) | Organic Solvents | Targets organic sealants such as urethane, paint, varnish lacquer, waterproofing sealants, silicone caulk removal without use of razor blades | Y | – 9°C (16°F) | Strong oxidizing agents (e.g. peroxides, chromic acid). Strong acids (e.g. sulfuric acid, nitric acid). Strong bases (e.g. sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide). | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | |
| 2.12 | Toluene (Toluol) | Organic Solvents | Targets organic sealants such as urethane, paint, varnish lacquer, waterproofing sealants, silicone caulk removal without use of razor blades | Y | 35°C to 60°C (95°F to 140°F) | Strong oxidizing agents. Strong acids. Strong bases. | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | |
| 2.13 | Trichloroethane | Organic Solvents | Cleaning solvent for certain signage, ink removal. | Y | 4°C (39°F) | Strong oxidizing agents. Strong acids. Strong bases. | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | |
| 2.14 | Xylene (xylol) | Organic Solvents | Targets organic sealants such as urethane, paint, varnish lacquer, waterproofing sealants, silicone caulk removal without use of razor blades | Y | 23°C (73°F) | Strong oxidizing agents. Strong acids. Strong bases. | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, firefighting measures, thorough JHA | |
| Note 1 | Appendix B depicts organic solvents that typically are successful in targeting the removal of stickers, excess caulking, oxidation, paint, tar, concrete, waterproofing sealants, and general stain removal. It may include deposit and stain removal from weathered glass, construction cleanings, and removal of debris on glass from remodeling activities such as paint, tar, concrete, stickers, or pressure cleaning from adjacent surfaces. Debris removal is predicated on using any of the following: Organic solvents (typically flammable) or non-metallic scrapers. The use of metal scrapers or strong acids IS NOT PERMITTED in Non-Routine: Type 6 cleaning list of approved solvents. | |||||||
| Note 2 | Flammability—Most organic solvents are highly flammable and require HazCom training and fire protection measures be taken on the site and during transportation. Transport only in approved containers. | |||||||
| Appendix C—Water-Based (Non-Flammable) Solvents, Compounds | ||||||||
| Non-Routine Window Cleaning—Generally Accepted Solvents- Includes weak acids and alkaline and other compounds not otherwise classified. See Appendix B for Organic Solvents and Flammable Products | ||||||||
| Product Number (IWCA Unique Code) | Product Name(s) | IWCA AGSM Product Type Category | Typical Debris Product Is Effective On | Product Description (25 Characters Maximum) | pH (If Applicable) | Incompatible Materials | Health and Safety Measures/PPE | Other Recommendations/ Precautions |
| 3.1 | Acetic Acid (vinegar 1%-3%) | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak acids | Hard water deposits, mineral deposits high in alkaline | Acetic acid is considered an organic solvent, although not typically flammable in household use | Acetic acid is considered an organic solvent, although not typically flammable in household use | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | ||
| 3.1 | Phosphoric acid | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak acids | Hard water deposits, mineral deposits high in alkaline | 1.5 pH, however, we treat it as a weak acid | Avoid strong alkalis, must neutralize | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | ||
| 3.1 | Oxalic acid | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak acids | Hard water deposits, mineral deposits high in alkaline | Variable- 1.25-4.14 pH | Avoid strong alkalis, must neutralize | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | ||
| 3.1 | Sulfamic acid | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak acids | Hard water deposits, mineral deposits high in alkaline | Avoid strong alkalis, must neutralize | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | |||
| 3.1 | DDBSA | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak acids | Hard water deposits, mineral deposits high in alkaline OR acidic | 7.5-9.5% (by weight) | Avoid strong alkalis, must neutralize | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | ||
| 4.1 | Ammonia: (Ammonium hydroxide) | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak alkaline | Hard water deposits, mineral deposits high in alkaline | Can be purchased as strong as 27% | Avoid acids, iodine, and hypochlorite (bleach). Corrosive to metals, can form explosive compounds. | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | Ammonia is a deadly poison. Handle with care. Do not store in trucks in hot sunlight. | |
| 3.1 | Phosphates | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak acids | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | |||||
| 3.1 | Sodium laureth sulfate | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak acids | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | |||||
| 3.1 | Sodium sulfate | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak acids | Acids | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | ||||
| 3.1 | Magnesium chloride | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak acids | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | |||||
| 3.1 | Magnesium nitrate | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak acids | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | |||||
| 3.1 | Sulfuric acid | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak acids | Strong acid: 2-3 pH | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | Acids are corrosive, reactive, and poisonous. Handle with care. Do not store in trucks in hot sunlight. | |||
| 4.5 | Hydrofluoric acid | Water-based solvents, compounds, STRONG ACID CATEGORY for window cleaning | Aqueous solutions 1.0pH | Rapidly oxidizes metals, metallic coated glass, and building envelopes. Protect human skin, metallic safety equipment, etc. | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | Any glass with Side 1 or Side 4 metallic tint or coatings present should NOT be exposed to hydrofluoric acid. It will aggressively attack metals. | ||
| 3.1 | Sodium hypochlorite (bleach) | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak alkaline | Never mix bleach with any other compounds, and avoid acids, strong oxidizers, and strong bases (never mix with ammonia) | PPE and respirators are required, depending on the application. Its corrosive properties should not be taken lightly as it is commonly available, but its reactive properties and poisonous nature make it a significant safety risk | ||||
| 3.1 | Sodium bi-sulphide (Concrete remover) | Water-based solvents, compounds, weak alkaline | Concrete removal | Rapidly oxidizes metals. | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | |||
| Hydrochloric acid (muriatic acid) | Water-based solvents, compounds, STRONG ACID CATEGORY for window cleaning | 2.0 pH | Rapidly oxidizes metals, metallic coated glass, and building envelopes. Protect human skin, metallic safety equipment, etc. | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, HazCom training, follow manufacturer’s instructions, thorough JHA | ||||
| Appendix D—Abrasives Non-Routine: Type 7 | |||||||||
| Non-Routine: Type 6—Targeting removal of stickers, excess caulking, oxidation, paint, tar, concrete, waterproofing sealants, and general stain removal. This may include deposit and stain removal from weathered glass, construction cleanings, and removal of debris on glass from remodeling activities or pressure cleaning of adjacent surfaces This appendix lists generally-accepted products and compounds for Non-Routine Window Cleaning utilizing microcrystalline abrasives with micron sizes that will NOT scratch uncoated glass and most hard coats. | |||||||||
| Product Number (IWCA Unique Code) | Product Name(s) | IWCA AGSM Product Type Category | Product Description(25 Characters Maximum) | Mohs Hardness Scale | pH (If Applicable) | Other Recommendations/Precautions | Incompatible Materials | Health and Safety Measures/PPE | Reactivity Level |
| 4.1 | Cerium Oxide | Abrasives: Hand Polishing/Mechanical Polishing | Must be a minimum of 70% pure | 6 to 7 | NA | Eye/Skin Protection | Strong oxidizing agents (e.g. peroxides, chromic acid). Strong acids (e.g. sulfuric acid, nitric acid). Strong bases (e.g. sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide). | Inhalation Danger/General irritant | Inert in water. Reacts with strong acids or oxidizers |
| 4,2 | Pumice | Abrasives: Hand Polishing/Mechanical Polishing | Must be grade FFFF | 5 to 6 | NA | Eye/Skin Protection | Strong oxidizing agents. Strong acids. Strong bases. | Inhalation Danger/General irritant | Inert |
| 4.3 | Rottenstone | Abrasives: Hand Polishing/Mechanical Polishing | Fine silica abrasive | 1 to 2 | NA | Eye/Skin Protection | Strong oxidizing agents. Strong acids. Strong bases. | Inhalation Danger/General irritant | Inert |
| 4.4 | Diamond dust | Abrasives: Hand Polishing/Mechanical Polishing | Super fine diamond particles | 10 | NA | Eye/Skin Protection | Diamond is chemically inert, so it is generally compatible with a wide range of materials. However, it may still cause abrasion or scratching on certain surfaces if used improperly. | Inhalation Danger/General irritant | Inert |
| 4.5 | Microcrystalline soft silica, silicon dioxide, quartz | Abrasives: Hand Polishing/Mechanical Polishing | An effective inert, non-water soluble product that is generally non-reactive with glass, metal, landscaping etc. Must be a micron size of 675. | 7 | 6.75-7 | Eye/Skin Protection | Strong acids (e.g. hydrofluoric acid). Strong bases. Reactive metals (e.g. alkali metals, certain metal hydrides). | Inhalation Danger/General respiratory irritant | Inert |
| 4.6 | Aluminum oxide | Abrasives- Hand Polishing/Mechanical Polishing | AKA: Corundum. High purity is required for scratch and distortion-free polishing. | 9 | NA | Eye/Skin Protection | Strong acids. Strong bases | Inhalation Danger/General irritant | Inert |
| 4.7 | Cellulose scrubber | Abrasives- Hand Polishing/Mechanical Polishing | Organic, dependent on the material used with a scrubber. The scrubbing pad specified must not abrade any types of glass. | NA | NA | Strong acids. Strong bases. | NA | ||
| 4.8 | White non-woven scrubber | Abrasives- Hand Polishing/Mechanical Polishing | Similar to a cellulose scrubber. The scrubbing pad specified must not abrade any types of glass. | NA | NA | Strong acids. Strong bases. | NA | ||
DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this guide was compiled from various industry sources and represents the current best methods and practices employed for commercial cleaning of glass. This guide is presented for informational purposes only.
Any and all information contained herein is not intended to constitute legal advice and, accordingly, all members and users of this guide should consult with local attorneys, insurance providers, and/or any other specific content experts when developing/deploying and implementing these programs and policies.
The IWCA assumes no liability in connection with this publication, sample policies, and procedures, including any information, methods, or suggestions contained herein.
The IWCA recommends that members and users of this guide follow all glass manufacturer recommendations and specifications and to obtain signed damage waivers prior to commencement of any work performed which is considered non-routine to help safeguard from any perceived or real liabilities.
Additional information can be found at iwca.org.
