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New EE Wash - Windows or Glass Block?

KMCKERN

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I am building a new EE wash here in Texas - 135' tunnel - in design phase. Windows in the tunnel are nice, but everyone I know has trouble keeping them clean. Even if cleaned daily, the windows look terrible in 18 - 24 months. Maybe use glass block instead to let in light? Or does anyone have any great ideas for cleaning that would keep the tunnel windows looking good for years? Many thanks!
 

Earl Weiss

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Contact Ryan Essenberg at Tommy systems. At the ICA show he said one man does the windows in 20 minutes and they have lots of them. Perhaps he can share his methods.
 

robert roman

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Widening the tunnel, automatic window rinse system, specially treated glass (nano technology), glass block and frequent manual cleaning can mitigate dirty sidewall windows.

However, each of these methods has associated one-time and recurring expenses.

Here in Florida, the climate allows for design that eliminates sidewall and sidewall windows as well as automatic doors.

I believe Waco has the same climate classification as Florida.
 

KMCKERN

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Thanks for your perspective guys! I have only been in the business since 2010 and still learning.
I left a message for Ryan Essenberg but have not heard back from him.
The new location is about 90 miles north of Waco, and climate is similar. There are about 35 days each year where temp is below freezing (mostly at night). I could have open design and shutters/panels that can be put in place at night when the weather is cold.
I have considered glass block and think that this would be trouble free - only possible negative is I think customers like to see outside when they are in a long tunnel.
 

JMMUSTANG

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I have a glass block wall in my equipment room facing outside so there is not any additional water conditions concerning the bay/tunnel.
I will tell you for certain that glass walls are not "trouble free".
I have several that have over time collected water inside the block, many that show water damage in the corners and dulling.
I had full length glass in the walkway/tunnel, domes in the ceiling, glass at the exit only by the blowers.
Anytime you introduce glass in the car wash you are going to have issues.
 

KMCKERN

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Thanks JMMUSTANG,
Appreciate your observations on this. I thought glass block might be a solution, but I will definitely avoid using glass block!
Looks like choices are maintenance hassle with glass windows or have design with opening to outside.
 
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