Luxurious Dutch Apartments get the ClearShield Treatment

Traffic pollution and close proximity to the sea no longer pose a problem for glass in luxury apartments in the Netherlands thanks to ClearShield durable glass surface protection technology...

The Metropole, built on the site of an old cinema in the heart of The Hague, comprises thirty apartments. As in any busy city, windows in the high-rise building are exposed to the damaging effects of atmospheric pollution, brickwork run-off and weathering from the nearby coast. Without any protection, frequent cleaning is required to keep the glass in pristine condition, which is both costly and time consuming. The ClearShield renovation and protection system, provided by Ritec Services in the Netherlands, has provided a durable and highly effective solution for the Metropole’s residents.

The first stage of the process involved the renovation of the glass. Using specialist Ritec renovation products, existing surface staining and corrosion that had already built up in the eighteen months since the Metropole’s windows had been installed was restored to an ‘as-new’ appearance. The glass was then ready for the second stage, the application of the ClearShield liquid to provide long-lasting protection from staining and discolouration. A total of 850m² of glass was treated by Ritec’s trained application team. Ritec Services also renovated 480m² of concrete façade, an additional service that the company offers. The contract took less than a month to complete, including the erection and dismantling of access scaffolding.

The ClearShield System’s proven polymer formulation reacts with the glass and becomes an integral part of the surface. Working like non-stick cookware, it chemically bonds to the surface providing a durable and transparent barrier, which is chemically inert, non-hazardous, UV stable and will not peel, crack or flake.

ClearShield treated glass protects against weathering and contamination by organic dirt, such as tree sap and bird droppings, as well as inorganic pollution from traffic fumes, for example. In addition, it will resist discolouration by lead oxides from roof flashing and iron oxides from railway lines. Frequency of cleaning and associated costs will also be reduced, which is a major benefit for building owners and occupants.

It is increasingly recognised that architectural glass without durable surface protection can quickly and easily suffer corrosion, reducing clarity for occupants and increasing maintenance costs.  High performance architectural glass, designed to control light and radiant energy from the sun, is also being more widely specified. Indeed, the double-glazed units at the Metropole apartments incorporate a heat retaining coating for enhanced thermal efficiency. However, if the glass is left unprotected performance standards may be compromised through surface corrosion. ClearShield ensures the glass delivers on its performance claims for a reasonable period after supply.

Developed over a quarter of a century, Ritec’s ClearShield System has become the leading, tried and tested technology for the renovation, protection and maintenance of all types of glass, including building façades, windows, shower doors, marine glass and many other glazing applications.