Have you ever used a window scraper and scratched the glass? Using a window scraper with the wrong technique can be a costly mistake. With some simple techniques, you can protect yourself against the embarrassment and expense of ruining glass with poor window-scraping practices.
So here is how to use a window scraper effectively without causing damage or scratches to the glass surface.
What you will need
The essentials include:
• Window cleaning kit including squeegee and washer
• Bucket and water
• Gloves and personal protective equipment
Precautions before you start
Be cautious and alert when using a scraper. They can be a dangerous device that causes serious injury if you are careless with them. Always retract or replace the blade cover when not in use.
Before scraping any window or glass surface, wash off any dirt or grime on it. Once the window has been cleaned, soap the surface before you use the scraper.
How to use the window scraper
Now that you know the basics, let’s get down to the cleaning.
Step 1. Wash the window first.
Step 2. Soap up the window using a window washer. The glass must be wet before scraping.
Step 3. Scrape the sides before scraping the centre.
Step 4. Scrape only the wet portions of the glass. Scrape only in the forward direction.
The do’s and don’ts
Here are some handy tips from our window cleaning trainers:
The do’s
• Always use the right window scraper for the right job. If you are just scraping a small sticker, use a pocket scraper. If you are scraping the entire window, preferably use a larger, 150mm wide scraper.
• Always use a new blade.
• Always carry spare blades.
• Only ever scrape forwards to avoid scratching the surface.
• Only ever scrape wet glass. Hold your washer in your other hand so you can wet the glass when needed.
• If you have doubts about whether the surface can be scraped or not, do a test run first on an inconspicuous area. Be sure to view the tested area at different angles in different lighting.
• Always retract or replace the blade cover when not in use.
The don’ts
• Never scrape a surface with a blade that is blunt or rusty.
• Never draw the scraper backwards.
• Never scrape dry glass.
• Never leave a scraper or blades unattended in a public place or where children could gain access.
• Never force a scraper. That’s how accidents happen.
• Never run your finger or hand across a scraper blade. Trust us, it’s sharp!
Be cautious whenever you use a window scraper, checking that everything is OK as you go. As your experience grows, your speed will also improve. But because glass is very difficult and expensive to repair, starting off slow and cautious is the wise thing to do.
2 important tips
Before we sign off, here are two tips to keep in mind:
1. Always do a test area with your scraper first.
Test the scraper on an inconspicuous area of the glass. Certain types of glass are prone to scratching. Alternative methods of removal may be required on certain occasions.
2. Keep the replacement blades dry and safe.
Always keep the replacement scraper blades dry and away from moisture. Keep them out of the reach of children.
What do you find works best when using a window scraper?
Tell us what you think, we’d love to hear about what you’ve discovered.
If you have any questions or need any advice we are happy to help. Call XO2’s customer care team on 1300 123 499, or check out XO2's window scrapers and window cleaning equipment online.
Happy window scraping!
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