The Ritec Boat
ClearShield Sparkles Across the Pond
Already proven in the UK and throughout Europe, Asia and Australia, ClearShield glass surface protection technology is also a successful export to the US market...
Sales of Ritec’s revolutionary solution to glass surface corrosion and contamination are continuing to grow across the pond, particularly within the decorative glass sector. In addition to being specified for glass and glazing in countless architectural projects, ClearShield is now being used by a specialist in art glass and awards to ensure that some of the most prestigious award statuettes and plaques in North America keep their ‘winning’ sparkle.
Starting with a small distributor network 14 years ago, Ritec operates in the US through ClearShield Technologies, LLC, a joint venture programme that gives customers access to local service and support with the backing of a global brand. Based in Chicago, Illinois, ClearShield Technologies attends all the major trade exhibitions, such as GlassBuild, as well as many regional shows, spreading the message about the commercial advantages of using ClearShield. Sean Lanigan, Vice President of ClearShield Technologies, comments, “Whether it’s in an interior or exterior application, glass is highly vulnerable to attack from organic and inorganic ‘enemies’. If left unprotected it can soon lose its original appeal and the surface can be irreparably damaged, leading to costly premature replacement.” Working like non-stick cookware, ClearShield’s proven polymer formulation reacts chemically with the glass and bonds to the surface to provide a totally transparent and highly durable barrier. Sean continues, “The ClearShield System offers glass companies an excellent opportunity to add value to their product and achieve higher profits with a premium product. Treated glass retains its good looks and is much easier to clean without the need for harsh chemicals, which saves on maintenance costs.”
One of the many US glass companies already enjoying the benefits of being a ClearShield licensed applicator is Rowland Glass Studios (RGS), the decorative glass division of Custom Glass Services in Frederick, Maryland. RGS treats all its etched glass with Sandblast Glass Protect, a specialist version of the ClearShield System, to enhance the finished appearance and seal out dirt and other contaminants. Sandblasted glass is particularly vulnerable to finger marks and other stains, which can be difficult to remove, says Russ Rowland, System Co-ordinator at RGS. “In addition to ensuring the glass holds its value and decorative quality, ClearShield facilitates much easier cleaning and maintenance,” he says.
RGS specialises in custom-etched tempered, laminated and annealed glass for an impressive client list including the US Senate and House of Representatives, the World Bank and the GSA, the Federal Government’s premier acquisition agency. Using a state-of-the-art plotting and sandblasting system, RGS can create stunning glass designs, from intricate corporate logos to large full-surface patterns. The company’s success is reflected in the recent move to premises twice the size of its previous facility and investment in a new production line to enhance efficiency. Offering the ClearShield System is all part of RGS’s commitment to high quality production and customer service, says Russ. “We’ve put together a fast-track team to deliver custom etching plus ClearShield surface protection without long lead times. As a result we can offer a competitively priced product that will retain its beauty for longer with minimal maintenance, and that gives our business a real commercial advantage in the marketplace.”
Ritec’s ClearShield is a fully integrated system for the renovation, protection and maintenance of all types of glass, including building facades, windows, shower doors, marine glass and many other glazing applications. For further information about becoming a licensed applicator, please click here.