Scraper Blades
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Gettin an Edge with Window Cleaning Scraper Blades
Trying to dial in your window cleaning setup? You're in the right place. Window cleaning scraper blades are disposable yet indispensable tools when tackling jobs with tough grime. You’ll want to regularly replace the blades within your complete scraper to efficiently remove your typical culprits such as paint, adhesive residue, stucco, caulking, and more. Fortunately, all of these problems can be solved with a high-quality window cleaning scraper blade from WCR. We’ll dive into how to use these tools effectively and safely so you can become a better window cleaner.
What Are the Uses for Each Size of Scraper Blade?
Window cleaning scraper blades come in various sizes and are primarily made from either carbon or stainless steel. Smaller blades, anywhere from around 1 to 2 inches, offer precision and are perfect for getting into tight corners or working on small panes of glass. They glide with ease into hard-to-reach places or uniquely shaped corners such as those found on French pane windows. Larger blades, ranging up to 6 inches, are designed for efficiency over large, open surfaces, allowing you to cover more area with fewer strokes.
So, what can a scraper blade remove?:
- Smaller nuisances like: Tape, gum, or silicone.
- Larger concerns such as: Decals, stickers, vinyl, adhesives, epoxy, and other stuck-on messes.
- And more!
Really, what can’t scraper blades remove? Matching the blade size to the window size and the intricacy of the task can also significantly improve your cleaning efficiency. It’s best to have a variety of sizes to choose from so you can adapt to any situation with ease. And remember, comfort is key! To keep your hand from strain, try out a few different lengths to find which one feels best to you.
Stainless Steel Versus Carbon
The battle between stainless steel and carbon steel scraper blades depends on your specific needs and the environment you're working in. What are the benefits of each?
Stainless Steel Blades
- Rust-resistant: stainless steel blades like those produced by Ettore resist rust and corrosion, making them ideal for wet conditions or for long-term storage.
- More usage: You can get more use from your stainless steel scraper blade, but it’s considered less durable, as they can crack or chip more easily.
- Ideal for light scraping jobs: For minor scraping jobs or lighter cleaning tasks, stainless steel is the way to go because it won’t need to be replaced every day.
Carbon Steel Blades
- Chip-resistant: carbon steel blades, like those produced by Unger, on the other hand, boast a rigid edge, resistant to chipping and cracking. Despite their resilience, they require more frequent replacement due to their tendency to quickly rust.
- Ideal for heavy-duty cleaning: when you need to remove paint or construction debris, a robust, carbon steel blade is preferable. Or, if you have a long day of hard scraping ahead of you, consider a carbon steel scraper blade.
Before making a final choice, it’s also wise to factor in the surface you're working on; delicate glass surfaces or windows with films may be damaged if scraped with any metal blades. For sensitive surfaces, a plastic scraper blade like those produced by NICE may be preferred. When in doubt, feel free to reach out to one of our experts to figure out which scraper blade is right for the job you have in mind! Regardless, it never hurts to have both stainless steel and carbon steel blades in your tool kit, that way you’re prepared come what may!
Can Scraper Blades Be Sharpened, or Should They Be Replaced?
When it comes to maintaining your window cleaning scraper blades, replacement is generally preferred over sharpening. For all the DIYers out there, this news can be a bummer. Sharpening blades can be risky and often doesn’t restore the original efficacy of the blade. You might not be able to see it with the naked eye, but DIY sharpening can make the edges even more jagged and uneven, leaving your glass susceptible to scratches! Plan ahead now and buy a replacement pack so you can switch out dull blades whenever you need!
How Often Should You Replace Your Scraper Blades?
The frequency of window cleaning scraper blade replacement is dictated by use, blade condition, and most importantly, the type of blade. Carbon steel scraper blades will only be good for a day, as they will begin to rust as soon as they’re exposed to water. The suggested time to replace stainless steel blades is pretty much when results dwindle or the edge begins to visibly deteriorate.
The life expectancy of stainless steel blades is more dependent on the intensity and frequency of use. This means a stainless steel blade may last very long if used infrequently and on gentle surfaces. On the other hand, a stainless steel blade might quickly crack when trying to remove tough debris like epoxy. Either way, a good rule of thumb is to inspect the blade before each use; signs of rust, dullness, or nicks are clear indicators it’s time for a new blade. Regularly replacing your blades ensures safety and quality results, preventing damage to both the windows and your reputation.
Can You Use Different Brand Blades on Scrapers?
You cannot master the scraper without correctly fitting blades. The compatibility of window cleaning scraper blades across different brands largely depends on the design of the scraper itself. Some scrapers are made to accommodate blades from various manufacturers, offering flexibility and convenience. However, it's crucial to verify compatibility to ensure optimal performance and safety. When in doubt, check out the quiz located above. This handy test will help you quickly determine what scraper blade you should use with your scraper handle.
What Safety Precautions Should Be Taken When Changing Scraper Blades?
When you’re ready to change out your blade, there are extra measures you can take to stay safe. Here are some top tips we recommend:
- Use gloves: Consider using gloves as an extra layer of protection when removing your blades. When you slip out a new blade from your World Enterprises or Ettore Pro + Replacement Blades Pack, fresh blades usually contain some oil to keep them from sticking together. Gloves can protect you from accidental slips and cuts due to the oil on the blade.
- Don’t grip the mouth of the blade pack: Refrain from gripping the mouth of the Replacement Blade Pack, as the new blade edge could nick your palm on the way out.
- Use the safety cap: When removing your blade, it may also help to use the safety cap instead of your fingers to lift the blade out of place of the scraper handle.
- Point the blade away from your body: To keep from accidentally hurting yourself, always point the blade away from your body as you glide the old blade out and the new blade into place.
- Listen for a “click”: With some blade brands like Ettore, listen for a “clicking” sound or look for the tab on the side of your blade to stick out, confirming your new blade is locked securely into place. Place the safety cap back on immediately after exchanging the blade.
How do you safely discard your old, dirty scraper blades? Make good use of your Replacement Blades Pack and gently reinsert old blades into the backside of the pack for secure keeping. For more helpful tips on how to safely replace your scraper blade, view our special video tutorial, “How to: Razor Replacement”.
CONCLUSION:
Understanding the intricacies of window cleaning scraper blades can greatly elevate your cleaning prowess. Not sure which blade is right for you? Here at WCR, we scrape away all doubt because our scraper blades are all tried and tested by window cleaning professionals. So no matter which blade you get, you’re working with a winner! With our top-quality blades with the right blade in hand, and a mindful approach to maintenance and safety, you’re ready to tackle any window cleaning challenge!