Hard water is more common than you might think, especially on the exterior of your windows. The minerals in tap or city water can leave behind residue or a film on surfaces, looking like white deposits or water spots on taps, windows, or concrete. Hard water stains can look unsightly, so homeowners may want to find ways to prevent them or remove them quickly. This blog will share the common causes of hard water stains so you can look out for them and ways to prevent hard water stains from clinging to your windows.
Common Causes Of Hard Water Stains
There are common causes of hard water stains on windows that you should be on the lookout for. If your home tap water is considered hard water, you should be extra aware of the water that you use on your windows or that may accidentally hit your windows.
Sprinklers Hitting Your Windows
Lawn sprinklers are one of the most common culprits of hard water stains on the exterior of windows. Hard water coming from sprinklers or water droplets moving through the air can cause calcium or zinc buildup on your window glass. If you have mild stains, you may be able to use rubbing alcohol, vinegar, or toothpaste to remove them. Aiming sprinklers away from the home or turning down the water pressure so the stream doesn’t reach the side of your home is the best way to stop hard water stains.
Cleaning With Hard Water
If you don’t have a water softener and are using this water to clean your home and windows, the residue left behind will cause stains and white crusty buildup on all surfaces. Even if you are working to remove previous hard water stains, cleaning with this water will put you in a terrible cycle, causing wear to your window glass.
Irregular Cleaning
Putting off window cleaning can lead to severe stains and deterioration from hard water. When cleaning is infrequent, hard water can build up and be more difficult to remove. Calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc are common minerals found in water, which can chemically react with the glass. Minerals will begin to permeate the surface of windows, making the stains almost impossible to remove. Putting off window cleaning can make even small hard water stains turn into a major problem.
Preventing Hard Water Stains On Your Windows
Preventing hard water from affecting your windows is the best way to ensure their longevity. Using these methods will keep your windows looking fresh while also preventing hard water problems across the entire home.
Use A Water Softener
Homes with hard water can benefit from a water softener, not only for their windows, but also for cleaning, washing clothes, and drinking. Water softeners will help reduce the minerals in your water and help reduce the likelihood of stains. Water softeners are fairly inexpensive and easy to install, but the benefits will outweigh the costs.
Install Gutter Extensions
While the rainfall we typically experience doesn’t have an excess of minerals, acid rain or dirty water from your roof can cause stains on your windows. Putting gutter extensions on your home will help keep run off from heavy rain or snow from staining the windows. These extensions will help direct the water to a further part of your home, away from windows, the foundation, and entryways.
Protective Coatings
Sealants and protective coatings can help stop hard water stains from forming on your windows. These protective coatings create a barrier that repels water and minerals, keeping debris from sticking. Getting a professional coating is better than a DIY option if you want to avoid peeling or chipping. These coatings will last longer and resist more debris than those you can apply yourself.
Window Cleaning From Jacob’s Ladder
Jacob’s Ladder offers professional window cleaning and gutter cleaning services to homes in Colorado. Our team has been helping homeowners’ windows sparkle for many years, allowing them to enjoy the surrounding scenery. Having professional window cleaning will save you time, allowing you to focus on other tasks around your home, while also boosting the lifespan of your window treatments.
Jacob’s Ladder can help make your home look brand new again with our thorough services. Whether it has been a while since you had your windows cleaned or you are experiencing hard water stains, we are here to help. Reach out to us to get a quote and see clearer today!