How to Handle Your Sprinkler’s Hard Water Stains

Hard water stains on your home’s windows not only are unsightly, but can cause damage to the glass. The good news is that hard water stains can be avoided and if they’re already a problem, a professional window cleaning service like United Window Cleaning in Cincinnati, OH can help remove stubborn, unattractive stains to help your home look bright and inviting again.

What is Hard Water?

The USGS (U.S. Geological Survey) Water Science School defines hard water as water that’s, “High in dissolved minerals, both calcium and magnesium.” Hard water naturally occurs and depending on the area of the country, the hardness varies. Ohio and most of the Midwest have a higher concentration of hardness in comparison with the southern states and the East Coast.

How Hard Water Can Affect Windows

You may have seen the affects of hard water on drinking glasses when they come out of the dishwasher or even when left to air dry in the rack after washing by hand. These hard water stains can look like spots or a haze on the glass. It may feel like there’s a film even though you know it’s been cleaned. This same effect can occur on a home’s windows when hit by water from the sprinkler system. The hard water from the sprinkler deposits minerals onto the windows. Because glass is porous, this not only leaves ugly spots and a film, but over time it causes damage.

At first, you may not notice any hard water staining from the sprinkler spray hitting the windows. However, over time the spots may be harder to remove. As a film or crust begins to develop after repeated exposure from hard water, windows will have a hazy look that detracts from the home’s exterior appearance and impacts enjoyment of the light that naturally streams inside.

Eventually, hard water stains can etch the glass. Once etching occurs, it’s almost impossible to remove the deposits and the window may need to be replaced.

How United Window Cleaning Can Remove Hard Water Stains from Windows

Hard water mineral deposits are easier to remove in their earliest stages. The longer the build-up, the heavier the layers of deposit, and the more difficult to remove. Depending on the level of build-up and the amount of windows or expanse of glass affected, you may try removing the hard water stains with a 1:1 solution of distilled white vinegar and distilled water. This solution can work if the hard water stains are still new and don’t cover a large area.

However, the best and most effective way to remove hard water stains from windows is to rely on a professional cleaning team. At United Window Cleaning, we can work to remove hard water stains from a variety of window types including both single and double hung styles, tilt-ins/casements, and even storm windows. We only use quality products and the right equipment to get the job done properly. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to rid your home’s windows of hard water stains.