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Africa Β· Holding Company

PG Group

πŸ‡ΏπŸ‡¦ South Africa Β· Last reviewed by Justin Orloff

PG Group window product

Quick Facts

Founded

1897

HQ

Cape Town, South Africa

Divisions

PG Glass, PG Aluminium, Shatterprufe

Materials

Architectural glass, automotive glass, glazing supply

Specialty

South Africa's dominant glass group

Market

South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa

Brand at a Glance

  • South Africa's largest glass and glazing group, established 1897
  • PG Glass is the country's most recognised glass repair and replacement brand
  • Shatterprufe dominates South African automotive safety glass

Product Range

  • Architectural float glass (clear, tinted, reflective) via PG Glass supply
  • Aluminium glazing systems via PG Aluminium (see PG Aluminium guide)
  • Automotive safety glass via Shatterprufe
  • Processed glass: toughened, laminated, insulating glass units

Why This System

PG Group's breadth means a window cleaner in South Africa will encounter PG products constantly - from the glass in a Cape Town villa to an office building in Johannesburg. PG Glass's nationwide network also means glass replacement and service is accessible, which matters when you spot damage during a clean.

South Africa has significant climate variation: Cape Town's Mediterranean climate with winter rain and summer UV; Gauteng's thunderstorm season with hail; Durban's humid subtropical coastal environment; and the dry interior of the Karoo. PG glass products behave consistently across these zones, but cleaning frequency and approach must adapt to local conditions.

Step 1 of 2: Manufacturer Recommendations

Official Care Guidance

No official guide published. The steps below are based on Justin Orloff's 25 years hands-on experience with this system.

Step 2 of 2: The Orloffs Protocol

The Orloffs Protocol

This is how I clean PG Group windows. The tools and technique below come from 25 years of daily professional work on the glass. Every step has been tested on real installations and adapted specifically for PG Group systems.

Pro Tools

My daily tool list. This is what I carry to every job.

1Ettore Squeegee 14"
2Unger HiFlo Pure Water Pole
3Moerman Liquidator
4Boab Belt System

Follow these steps in order. Each one builds on the last. This is the same sequence I use on every PG Group installation.

  1. 1

    1. Identify glass type - standard float, tinted, or processed (toughened/laminated) via PG supply.

  2. 2

    2. Pre-rinse to remove dust and coastal salt depending on location.

  3. 3

    3. Apply pH-neutral detergent; clean top to bottom.

  4. 4

    4. Squeegee with clean rubber; overlap strokes.

  5. 5

    5. Detail edges; wipe frames with microfibre.

Watch the Window Cleaning Manifesto hereSee these techniques in action. Free, 5 minutes, lifetime access.

Pro Tips

  • Cape Town coastal: salt air deposits on glass are invisible but cause corrosion at frame joints - rinse frames thoroughly on every visit.
  • Gauteng hail season: inspect glass for micro-cracks before cleaning - pressure on cracked glass can cause it to shatter.
  • Durban humidity: mould and mildew on frame seals is common - a dilute vinegar wipe on rubber seals (not frames) controls growth.

What NOT To Do

  • Do not use blades on PG toughened glass - toughened glass is safe but surface scratches are permanent.
  • Do not use acid-based products on PG reflective or coated glass.
  • Do not clean without inspecting for hail damage first in Gauteng.

Bundle Kits and Tool Recommendations

Bundle Kit

Orloffs Squeegee Pro Pack flat lay
Pro KitThe full professional setup. Brass squeegees, T-bar with applicator cover, tool belt, rags, soap, and bucket. Everything from the daily tool list in one box.Shop now β†’
Orloffs Squeegee Pro Pack bundled

Tool Recommendations

pH-neutral detergent

View on Amazon [coming soon]

14-inch squeegee

View on Amazon [coming soon]

Microfibre cloths

View on Amazon [coming soon]

Cleaning Frequency

Every 6-8 weeks inland. Monthly on Cape Town and Durban coastal installations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean PG Group windows?
For PG Group windows, Every 6-8 weeks inland. Monthly on Cape Town and Durban coastal installations.. Coastal or urban locations may need more frequent cleaning.
What tools do I need for PG Group windows?
Professional cleaning of PG Group windows requires my daily tool list of: Ettore Squeegee 14", Unger HiFlo Pure Water Pole, Moerman Liquidator, Boab Belt System.
What should I avoid on PG Group windows?
Do not use blades on PG toughened glass - toughened glass is safe but surface scratches are permanent.
Does PG Group publish an official cleaning guide?
PG Group has not published an official cleaning guide. The protocol on this page is based on Justin Orloff's 25 years hands-on experience.
Can I use a water-fed pole on PG Group windows?
Yes, purified water via a water-fed pole is one of the safest methods for PG Group glass. Ensure TDS is at or near zero before use and avoid directing high-pressure water at seals or gaskets.

Field Notes

β€œPG Group glass is the South African default - most buildings you clean will have PG supply chain glass. Know the PG Glass nationwide network as a referral resource: when you spot a cracked or failed IGU seal, you can direct clients to PG Glass for replacement. This adds value to your service and builds client trust.”

Justin Orloff