We can all imagine how time-consuming and hard cleaning a conservatory glass roof can be. The idea of self cleaning glass seems almost too good to be true. However, the technology is here and it can make your life much easier. For anyone wondering how exactly it works, we’re here to explain the process.

For the process to work, the glass needs rain and sunlight.

The glass has a very thin coating of titanium dioxide. Any painters might know that titanium dioxide is also used in white paints. However, the coating is so thin (as small as 10 nanometers) that it’s transparent. The coating reacts with UV sunlight to break down any organic dirt or mud on the glass. Because the reaction happens right on the surface of the glass, it removes dirt from the inside out!

Regular glass is hydrophobic (doesn’t like water) which causes rain to form droplets. These droplets run down the glass which causes streaks. However, because of the titanium dioxide coating, self cleaning glass is hydrophilic (likes water). This means the water spreads evenly across the glass and runs off in a sheet, washing away the loosened dirt. This also means that streaks aren’t left after the glass dries.

As the glass needs rain and sunlight to work if there isn’t any rain, the self-cleaning reaction won’t activate. After the glass is installed, it also takes a few weeks for the reaction to begin.

In summary, self cleaning glass is a great product which can make maintaining your conservatory much easier. Ideal for those who want a light and airy feel to their conservatory or orangery.

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