Self Cleaning Glass

Govanhill Baths roof glazing, Glasgow
Withington Baths, Manchester commercial glazing services

Pilkington Activ™ Clear is a self-cleaning glass with advanced dual-action for superior results.

Self Cleaning glass is a relatively new product which was invented by Pilkington glass. It is frequently used on sloping patent glazing areas which are difficult to reach or do not benefit from a regular cleaning schedule. The performance of the permanent self cleaning coating will not diminish over time which gives an advantage over other spray coatings available which may need re-applying after five years.

This glass is available in a clear format as well as being offered with solar control properties to reduce solar heating within the occupied space of the building.

The Self-Cleaning Process

Pilkington Activ’s unique dual-action coating uses the forces of nature to help keep the glass clear of organic dirt, giving you not only the practical benefit of less cleaning but also clearer, better-looking glass.

Using a “photocatalytic” process, the coating on Pilkington Activ™ Clear reacts with ultra-violet rays present in natural daylight to break down and disintegrate organic dirt.  The second stage occurs when rainwater hits the glass.  Pilkington Activ™ Clear is “hydrophilic” which means that instead of forming droplets, the water spreads evenly over the surface and as it runs off takes the dirt with it. Compared with conventional glass, the water also dries off very quickly without leaving unsightly drying spots.

Other Self-Cleaning Glass Products in the Pilkington Activ™ Range.

Pilkington Activ™ Neutral: The ideal glass for conservatory sides and large glazed areas, Pilkington Activ™ Neutral has self-cleaning and solar control properties.

Pilkington Activ™ Blue: The ideal conservatory roof glass, Pilkington Activ™ Blue offers self-cleaning and solar control properties with an attractive blue tint.

Pilkington Activ Range

The  Pilkington Activ™ Range includes products which benefit from both self-cleaning and solar control properties helping to create an environment that can be used all year round.

Clear Self-Cleaning Glass

This product is effectively the same as conventional glass but with a specially developed coating on the outside that has a unique dual action.  Once exposed to daylight, the coating chemically reacts in two ways.  Firstly, it breaks down any ‘organic’ dirt deposits, such as bird droppings and tree sap. Secondly, rainwater ‘sheets’ down the glass to wash the loosened dirt away.

70% light transmission | 50% solar heat transmission
Using 2no. panes of 6mm glass in double glazing

self cleaning glass

Neutral Self-Cleaning Solar Control Glass

The attractive neutral coloured glass that combines dual-action, self-cleaning properties with solar control performance for a cooler internal environment.  Specially designed for conservatories and large glazed areas, Pilkington Activ™ Neutral is a revolutionary glass that is perfect for use in both the roof and verticals.  It uses daylight and rainwater to breakdown and wash away organic dirt from exterior surfaces, making it ideal for hard to clean areas.  Its unique solar control coating also helps keep internal temperatures cool whilst still maintaining excellent, neutral light transmittance.

37% light transmission | 29% solar heat transmission
Using 2no. panes of 6mm glass in double glazing

guide to glass - common types

Blue Self-Cleaning Solar Control Glass

The attractive blue glass that combines dual-action, self-cleaning properties with solar control performance for a cooler internal environment.  Specially designed for the optimum roof unit, Pilkington Activ™ Blue is a revolutionary glass that is perfect for use in conservatories.  It uses daylight and rainwater to break down and wash away organic dirt from exterior surfaces, making it ideal for hard to reach places that are difficult to clean.  Its unique blue colour also helps keep internal temperatures cool whilst still maintaining excellent light transmittance.

42% light transmission | 33% solar heat transmission
Using 2no. panes of 6mm glass in double glazing

self cleaning glass

Main Brochure

Discover the innovative features and benefits of Pilkington self-cleaning glass in the comprehensive brochure download.  Click below to learn more about how this advanced glass can enhance your projects with minimal maintenance and maximum clarity.

Performance Data Sheets

Access detailed performance data for the Pilkington self-cleaning glass range.  Click below to download the comprehensive guide and discover how this advanced glass meets your project requirements.

Q&A Sheet

Get answers to all your questions about the Pilkington glass range.  Click below to download the Q&A document and learn more about the features, benefits, and applications of this innovative glass solution.

Consumer Brochure

Discover the benefits and applications of Pilkington glass in this comprehensive consumer brochure.  Click below to download and explore how this innovative glass can enhance your home with ease of maintenance and lasting clarity.

Technical Tips

Access expert advice and best practices for the Pilkington glass usage.  Click below to download the technical tips document and ensure optimal performance and longevity for your glass installations.

Cleaning Instructions

Ensure your Pilkington self-cleaning glass stays in top condition.  Click below to download the cleaning instructions and learn the best methods for maintaining its clarity and performance without compromising the integrity of the self-cleaning coating.