The need for efficient maintenance solutions grows as glass facades become more popular. This interaction focuses on developments in façade access systems, highlighting automation, safety, and high-quality materials to improve building maintenance.

With more buildings adopting glass facades, how do you see the demand for façade cleaning equipment evolving in the coming years?
A building’s facade consists of two components: what the builder offers and the access system required for maintenance. In our example, we created a facade access system for maintenance at multiple locations. We’re transitioning from monotonous “matchbox” buildings to structures with unique architecture. However, access equipment is required for various reasons to maintain these gorgeous structures. It is required for waterproofing, cleaning, and regular maintenance, regardless of whether the structure is made of concrete.

It is falsely claimed that glass buildings cause smoke inside. Technology exists to effectively ventilate smoke, allowing it to escape via cracks in the floor. Unfortunately, myths remain, often fuelled by a lack of thorough research. Well-designed buildings have enormous aesthetic appeal, both inwardly and outside. Standard-sized punch windows (e.g., 4 feet by 2 feet) do not provide sufficient vistas or allow plants to integrate into the interior spaces.

I made a critical decision about cleaning methods based on a tip to discover a more cost-effective alternative. I asked a rope access expert from the UK to demonstrate how to descend buildings securely. While this technology exists, it is frequently poorly copied in India. We must put personnel credentials and talents first when selecting maintenance solutions to maintain quality and safety.

Can you share some of the latest technological advancements in façade access equipment, such as BMU trolleys, Davits, and jibs, that Clean India Group has introduced recently?
I built a variety of access tools for facade maintenance. Initially, I assumed that one cradle design would work for all structures, but I rapidly learnt that each one is unique. As a result, I created a series of facade access solutions, which have grown over time. I believe that in the future, the focus will shift from basic facade access to facade access automation, with AI eventually being integrated into facade cleaning contracts.

We need technology to correctly estimate the amount of dust on façade, as present approaches only allow for visual inspection and not precise measurements. More importantly, safety is a primary priority. Building owners in India frequently neglect the risks associated with facade cleaning, which can result in accidents and fatalities. Many incidents occur as a result of disregard for safety regulations, with some prioritising speed over safety.

Automation and digitisation are critical in this business. However, automation does not imply the elimination of jobs; rather, it refers to the reduction of hazardous tasks. For example, my automated glass-cleaning machine can reduce the number of on-site workers required, allowing one person to get the same outcomes as two. This method improves both quality and safety.

We are developing a revolving brush system that cleans facades efficiently. This system allows one operator to finish the work in one-fifth the time while ensuring safety through mechanisation. The emphasis is on speed and safety, reducing the required staff on site.

Another essential factor that sometimes goes overlooked in India is the water quality used for cleaning. Many people do not consider the quality of the water when cleaning surfaces. Using polluted water can leave markings on glass after it evaporates. Thus, I feel it is critical to implement water purification systems to ensure the water is free of pollutants and dissolved compounds.

I created a portable water purifying plant that can be transported using service lifts. This technique ensures that water used for cleaning evaporates without leaving any residue, resulting in a pristine finish. I successfully installed this system at Delhi Airport and am satisfied with its performance.

Given that your façade access solutions are constantly exposed to extreme weather conditions, can you explain how using hot-dipped galvanized steel and anodized aluminium ensures long-term durability?
The equipment we provide or that should be used must meet two important requirements: it must be waterproof and sturdy enough to withstand the demands of its application. All supplied equipment should be hot-dip galvanised or constructed of stainless steel 316, and all bolts and nuts should be SS316. To ensure the equipment’s weather resistance, it must be tested regularly, ideally every six months. These materials are hot-dip galvanised or have the right thickness, they should perform well. Similarly, SS316 components should not cause any problems.

However, no shortcuts should be done with material standards. Individuals specifying the materials must be confident in the standards employed and remove any concerns about conformity. For example, we use aluminium with the specification 6351.06066, which has little copper and other components. Low-quality aluminium might lead to diminished strength and potential difficulties.

Buyers must check that the materials meet criteria appropriate to their environmental conditions. Delhi’s lesser humidity allows for normal galvanising, whereas Mumbai’s high humidity needs hot-dip galvanising. This underlines the importance of considering each city’s environment to ensure proper protection.

It is critical to understand that rust is more than just surface damage; it represents a weakening of the metal, which can lead to major problems. As a result, we must be extremely explicit about the ramifications of utilising the appropriate materials.

What advice would you offer to companies looking to improve the maintenance and longevity of their building facades, especially in a fast-growing, urbanising country like India?
When allocating tasks, assessing the contractor’s experience and knowledge is critical. Unfortunately, many people nowadays are exclusively concerned with cost, and this trend has intensified with the implementation of reverse bidding. I believe that this attitude is detrimental to the future. Reverse bidding degrades quality by emphasising low prices over good specs.

It’s more than just matching the lowest price. You should advise contractors that you are willing to pay more for better quality. If their work does not fulfil particular criteria, they should not be obliged to lower their bid to compete. Instead, give a reasonable price that represents the increased quality. This strategy will help to keep structures in good condition.

I think reverse bidding should include a percentage-based preference for higher-quality buildings rather than focusing exclusively on the lowest cost.