There are several jobs around the house that DIY enthusiasts enjoy putting on their to-do lists. They range from simple to complex and from safe to dangerous. Whether you decide to take on a new project yourself or call in the professionals, it’s always helpful to know what it takes to perform these tasks.
One common job that seems simple but is a little more complex than expected is removing paint on glass. While there are certainly ways to do this at home, it is important to use the correct technique and equipment to protect your windows.
Let’s break down the best ways to get rid of dried paint and let the light shine through your windows!
Don’t Use a Razor
One of the biggest mistakes DIYers make is using a razor blade when removing paint on glass. While it seems easy enough to simply chip away at the dried paint, a few problems could occur. First, you may not get all the paint off the glass. There may still be oils or chemicals left over that could damage the glass in the long run. Speaking of damage, using a razor can easily turn a short job into a larger issue. With the wrong technique, razors can scratch and chip glass, affecting your window’s efficiency or even forcing a replacement, especially if done on tinted windows.
Get the Right Solution
Rather than using a razor to chip and scrape at your windows, removing paint on glass can be as simple as using the correct chemical solutions. There are a few household items that properly break down the paint in a way that will allow you to safely wipe or scrub it away without scratching the glass.
Both vinegar and baking soda, when combined with hot water, work for removing paint. Between those options, white vinegar is likely best for cleaning paint off glass. Another option would be to use acetone, which is a chemical often found in nail polish remover and does not harm non-tinted glass. You could put a few drops of nail polish remover onto a cloth and rub down the window until the paint is gone.
Be aware though that the acetone will need to be removed completely from the window. It is possible that the acetone will etch the glass over time if it is not properly removed, and especially if the window is in direct sunlight.
Also, acetone should never be used on tinted windows as it can destroy the tinting. Acetone can also ruin painted frames and some surfaces so you must be very careful if you choose to try this method.
Find the Proper Equipment (and Location)
Of course, you also have to mind the kind of cloth and other equipment you use when attacking this job. As is the case with all window cleaning jobs, a microfiber cloth is best to avoid leaving behind streaks and lint, as well as protecting against tiny scratches that could occur with rough cloths or paper towels.
Also, it’s important to wear gloves when working with chemicals, especially those mixed into hot water. Rubber gloves can get the job done. Lastly, when using chemicals such as acetone, try to do so in an airy or well-ventilated space so as to avoid breathing in anything harmful.
Call Sparkle Tech Window Washing
No matter your level of expertise or effort, there is always value in calling professionals to take care of these jobs. The pros at Sparkle Tech Window Washing can not only save you the time and the headache but can also ensure your safety and the safety of your windows — by using the correct equipment and top-quality solutions.
