Cleaning a glass wall
October 1st 2004

Cleaning a ‘work of art’can be difficult.When its value is ‘priceless’, and it’s big,very big,a whole set of new parameters comes into play.

The immense and imposing ‘West Screen’, comprising of 80 wheel engraved glass and bronze panels,by the artist John Hutton,had not been cleaned in years.How to reach the glass, rising 21.6 meters (71’) from the ground, while keeping the cleaning process simple and the costs low,was proving difficult to resolve.The thought of scaffolding, the safety implications, the related time and restricted access that would result, just compounded the dilemma.

It was through a recommendation made by locally based contractor, Delta Cleaning, that the practicality of using high level, water fed poles, was considered.After some consultation and assurances, a demonstration was planned for mid September.This was sponsored by Tucker Pole, known for their long telescopic aluminum pole and brush systems, with the gentle cleaning action of 99.9% pure water.

Due to the complexity of the screen, involving outward metal supports, a wind funneling location and the need for a high degree of brush control, it was agreed that the upper glass panels would be reached using a pole from a hydraulic platform.The lower panels would be cleaned with longer poles operated from ground level.

The weather on the day of the demonstration was kind with little wind.The schedule worked well, although the highly dirty frames required considerable effort to remove years of grime and oxide residues. Half the screen was tackled for the demonstration. It is anticipated that two more intensive cleans will be necessary before the beauty of this wall of glass can be viewed at its best.After the clean, the difference was remarked upon by management and visitors alike.With some changes in procedure, it is hoped work will begin on the inside of the screen using the Tucker System.

More articles from Aquafactors Direct Limited: