Hard water stains are white spots that are left on surfaces like window glass after hard water dries on it. In today’s post, local replacement window company Renewal by Andersen® of Memphis shares a quick guide on how to remove hard water stains.
What Causes Hard Water Stains?
Hard water is water that contains calcium, magnesium and other minerals. These minerals remain on the surface after the water dries, forming hard water stains that are especially visible on dark or reflective surfaces. Tap water in many areas often has high levels of such minerals. It’s harmless, but it’s important to make sure that everything washed with it, be it drinking glasses or windows, is wiped dry.
After washing your windows, squeeze excess water from the window surface using a squeegee. Always use new squeegee blades when cleaning your windows. Rubber tends to become rigid as it ages, and using old squeegee blades can scratch the glass. After squeezing out excess water, wipe the glass using a microfiber cloth. Never use old newspapers or rags on glass as they can also leave scratches, as well as stains, on the glass.
How to Remove Water Spots
What if your windows already have hard water stains? Should you have your window replacement service contractor replace the glass? Fortunately, you don’t have to. Hard water stains are difficult to remove; difficult not impossible.
To remove hard water stains, mix equal parts clean water and white vinegar. If all your windows are affected, you’ll need about one bucket of this mixture. Prepare one clean towel for soaking and several microfiber cloths for wiping the windows dry. Dip the towel into the water-vinegar mixture, then press it onto the hard water stains for a minute or two, then rub it gently. Repeat these steps until the hard water stains are gone, then wipe dry using the microfiber cloth.
Titanium Dioxide Coatings
Renewal by Andersen offers another preventive solution: among the many features of our High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass is the titanium dioxide coatings on the outer surface. UV rays from sunlight trigger a photo-catalytic action with the coating, which helps loosen all particles on the glass surface, including up to 99% of hard water stains.
Renewal by Andersen® of Memphis is your leading provider of house window replacement services. Give us a call at (901) 979-4460. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
