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How to Remove Hard Water Spots on Your Windows


Josh Knese • Jun 14, 2021

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Hard water spots are white stains that form on smooth surfaces like window glass and are difficult to remove. Difficult, but not impossible. Today, we share a quick guide on how to remove hard water spots on your windows.

How to Remove Hard Water Spots on Your Windows

What Causes Hard Water Spots?

The term “hard water” refers to water that has high mineral content. Tap water typically contains calcium, magnesium and other minerals, the concentrations of which may vary depending on the area. Hard water is harmless, though you may have difficulty bathing and washing the dishes because the minerals prevent suds from forming. Hard water droplets left to dry on the windows is the most common cause of hard water stains. Wiping the windows dry after cleaning them or after watering the garden can help prevent hard water spots.

How to Remove Hard Water Spots

Remove existing hard water spots by mixing equal parts of clean water and white vinegar. To clean all windows in an average-sized home, at least one bucket of this mixture should be prepared. If your windows have removable, tiltable or offset hinges, use these features to make cleaning easier. Dip a clean towel into the water/vinegar mixture, press it onto the spots for a minute or two, and then rub it gently into the window surface. Repeat these steps until the stains are gone. Wipe the glass dry using a microfiber cloth. Never use newspapers to wipe the windows as they will scratch the window surface and leave ink stains.

Metal Dioxide Coatings

If you are planning on getting replacement windows, consider window glass with coatings that may help remove hard water spots. Some manufacturers offer window glass with a metal dioxide coating on the outside surface. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight triggers a photocatalytic reaction with the metal dioxide coating that loosens all particles on the glass surface, including hard water spots, making it easy to wipe off. Replacement windows with these features generally cost more than standard ones, but their low maintenance features can be worth it.

Exterior Building Solutions is your leading provider of replacement windows and entry doors. Give us a call at (314) 470-8783. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in St. Louis, Chesterfield and Wildwood as well as the surrounding communities.

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