Exactly what is self-cleaning glass?
Activ™ is an ordinary
glass with a special coating
on the outside that has a
unique dual-action capability
to break down and wash
away organic dirt. Once
exposed to daylight, the
coating breaks down any
organic dirt deposits and
then rain water, or water
from a hose, sheets down
the glass to wash the loosened
dirt away.
What about cloudy days and at night?
The Activ™ coating needs
only a small amount of UV
radiation to activate the
coating, so it works on
overcast days. And the
water sheeting effect will
last through the night.
Will my windows start cleaning themselves right
away?
After windows have been
installed, the Activ™ coating
on the glass takes about
five days to activate itself.
For the best results, after
installation and initial
cleaning by the installer,
the windows should be left
until the coating activation
period is completed before
any cleaning is undertaken.
What effect does the coating have on the glass?
Very little, other than keeping
it cleaner for longer!
From certain angles
Activ™ glass has a slightly
greater mirror effect than
ordinary glass, with a faint
blue tint. Otherwise, the
glass is just like any other.
The Activ™ coating has no
effect on glass strength,
and only reduces the
amount of light and energy
that passes through by
about 5%.
Can I purchase just the coating to apply
myself?
No. Activ™ glass is manufactured using a unique, patented technology,
and the glass is produced in a factory-controlled environment.
Can I purchase just the glass to install
myself?
No. Only commercial glass fabricators and window manufacturers, such as RIVCO,
are authorized to provide Activ™ glass components as part of complete
glazing systems.
Can this glass be used in any window?
Any exterior window. It is not suitable for interior purposes. Though it can
be used in any exterior window, Activ™ self-cleaning glass is especially
useful for inaccessible windows where organic dirt normally collects, such
as skylights, roof windows, picture windows, transoms, and in sun spaces.
Activ™ glass can be installed vertically or at an angle.
Will my windows ever need cleaning?
The Activ™ coating will eventually break down even heavy deposits, and
is designed to virtually eliminate the amount of maintenance required. However,
if the surface is so dirty that UV light cannot reach the glass, the self-cleaning
action will not take effect. You may have to clean your windows during long
dry spells or if they become heavily soiled. If cleaning is necessary, it’s
much easier to clean Activ™ glass than conventional glass.
How easy will my windows be to clean?
Normally, a simple hosing down with water will suffice, but you can also use
a soft cloth and
warm, soapy water. No special cleaners are required and the Activ™ coating
will naturally
re-activate after a few days.
What if dust collects on the surface
during dry weather?
The Activ™ coating will remove organic deposits, such as fingerprints
or tree sap, but dust
generally contains chemicals that will not fully decompose. To remove it before
the next rainfall, simply spray the glass with water.
How long will the coating last?
Tests have shown that the Activ™ coating will last as long as the glass
itself.
Can the coating be scratched or rubbed
off?
The Activ™ coating is securely bonded to the glass, so it can only be
affected if the surface
of the glass itself is damaged. If the glass is broken, or scratched with
pointed objects, abrasive
cleaners or steel wool, the coating can be damaged. Otherwise, tests have
shown that the coating will not flake off or discolor.
Can the coating be replaced?
Since the Activ™ coating lasts as long as the glass itself, there is
no need to replace it.
Is the coating environmentally friendly?
Yes. The coating contains harmless chemical substances already found in the
home, in such things as toothpaste and paint. In fact, since only small amounts
of cleaning agents may ever be needed, Activ™ glass is kinder to the
environment than ordinary glass.
What is a photocatalytic effect?
This is the name given to the chemical reaction involving UV rays from natural
daylight,
oxygen and the special coating on Activ™ glass that breaks down and loosens
organic dirt
particles from the glass.
What does hydrophilic mean?
It literally means “water attracting” and is the opposite of hydrophobic,
which means “water
repelling.” Basically, it means water spreads evenly over the surface
of the glass to form a thin
film that washes away and dries off quickly without leaving unsightly drying
spots.
How much will this glass add to the cost
of my windows?
That depends on the size of your windows; whether or not Activ™ glass
is used in conjunction with other glazing products to enhance additional desirable
qualities; and, to a lesser extent, where you will use the glass. An authorized
dealer, such as RIVCO, is best prepared to help you assess cost factors.
Are You Ready to Have Windows With
Activ™ Glass Installed in Your Home?
