Window panes streaked with water can give the impression of being dirty and that’s a no-no if you’re ramping up a building’s kerb appeal. But how do you achieve streak free windows? It’s easy…when you know how.
Windows can become stained when they come into contact with hard water. Hard water is a term used to describe any water that contains mineral ions with a charge of +2. Basically this is water that has come into contact with minerals such as calcium and magnesium carbonates like limestone and dolomite. If you live in a city or an urban area the chances are your windows will be stained by hard water and because glass is porous it can be manipulated by these chemicals causing them to permeate the structure of the glass. That means removal can be difficult.
For streak free windows a mixture of water and vinegar can be used. You’ll get the best results, from equal parts of white distilled vinegar and water mixed together in a spray bottle. This mixture can then be squirted onto the panes and left for a couple of minutes before being wiped off.
For more stubborn water stains you may want to try a solution of ammonia and water.
To do this you soak a towel into a mixture of ammonia and water, then use it to clean the glass.
Be warned! Not everyone will be able to use ammonia as it is highly irritant. You need to be especially careful when handling any ammonia-based solution and wear protective gear including rubber gloves and goggles. Or you can buy a special chemical solution designed for the job, however, care needs to be taken. For someone unskilled in window cleaning using the wrong pressure could result in scratching or damage to the glass.
The best solution for streak free windows is actually prevention. But how do you do this?
We have to say that regular window cleaning by a professional is certainly the less risk-free and more efficient way to maintain the beauty of your glass but if you want to maintain your panes yourself you can try the following:
Mix water with rubbing alcohol and wipe the window with it. It’s great for window maintenance and may also remove mild water stains.
Squeeze some toothpaste onto a non-abrasive pad. Make sure it isn’t the abrasive kind of whitening toothpaste as this could scratch the glass. Dip into a little water and lightly apply the mixture to your windows. Rinse the glass and use a squeegee to remove excess water from the panes to keep them streak free.
Clean windows with vinegar, or spray the vinegar into glass, and start erasing streaks and spots. Be sure to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from the vinegar’s acidity.
If you want a professional solution to streak free windows then don’t hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to advise you.
