Conservatories are an interesting example of the marriage of timeless design and exceedingly modern technology.
This means that whilst the design, frame and materials used in traditional conservatories are inspired by the golden age of the orangery, the glazing used takes advantage of much more modern glass technology.
One of the most interesting glass technologies used is one that can turn the sizzling heat of the summer sun into a way to clean the windows without any hassle or any work.
Self-cleaning glass, also known as photocatalytic glass, is a coating applied to conservatory windows that contains an ultraviolet light-activated mineral that breaks down dirt and other organic material into water and carbon dioxide.
The main ingredient used for this, titanium dioxide, also has a secondary hydrophilic effect in that water travels faster off of it instead of beading up and potentially causing streaks, creating a film-like wash that covers the whole window pane.
Water instead carries the residue left on the window off of it easily and cleanly, meaning that for most typical British summers with a combination of hot and rainy days, homeowners do not need to lift a finger to clean their conservatories.
In the rare instances where the weather remains dry for a long time, using a hose on the glass will also activate the secondary effect.
The film will last as long as the glass does, which means that whilst the initial cost is naturally higher than for a window without it, it could save a considerable amount of money compared to regularly buying window washing fluid and going through the hassle of cleaning them manually.
The only caveat to self-cleaning windows is that they can only be used outside because they require ultraviolet light for the self-cleaning effect to activate, but given that all conservatories are outside, this is far from an issue.