The best tools, techniques, and chemicals for getting rid of hard water stains.

As a Window Cleaner providing services to Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, and Indian Wells, hard water stain removal is a common request. Often, I’m asked “how do you remove stains?” “what do you use?” and “how do I keep hard water stains from returning?”Well, that depends on the severity of said deposits, how long they’ve been there, and the type of glass.

Not all stains are created equal

There are varying degrees of hard water stains. As almost how burns are classified. Stage one deposits can usually be eliminated with a mild abrasive or acid. This level of staining is usually relatively new and has not formed a chemical bond. Stage two hard water stains are deposits of calcium, iron, and silica that have actually bonded to glass on a molecular level.

Stage two hard water stains will require mechanical intervention with a random orbital buffer, an abrasive solution, and pad.

Once your windows or shower doors have reached this level, the debate of replacement versus removal will arise. The labor involved in circumventing stage two hard water stains at this level can often match the cost of replacement.

What hard water stain removal products should you use?

Here at ShinePro Window Cleaning, we utilize several different products and tools for hard water stain removal. The ground water here in Palm Springs has an extremely high level of total dissolved solids, thus almost every home from La Quinta, to Rancho Mirage, has hard water stains. Our approach to hard water stain removal varies. ShinePro Window Cleaning usually begins with an abrasive solution.

Starting with a mild abrasive paste or powder allows you to remove hard water staining without dangerous acids. As a homeowner, you’ll apply the abrasive with a towel or sponge. In a circular motion, scrub the paste or powder against any limescale, iron, or calcium deposits. Once the stains are gone, Wipe any excess residue off with a towel. If you’re still left with a significant layer, its time to move on to acid.

If initial attempts at hard water stain removal have not produced desirable results, ShinePro Window Cleaning will apply an acid. This is normally a last result due to safety concerns and the possibility of damage to surrounding areas. If you decide to use an acid based cleaner, be sure to locate the Material Safety Data Sheet and adhere to all precautions.

The hard water stains are gone, I’m finished right?

Not quite, there’s one more step left in the process. You now have a fresh, porous surface that is highly vulnerable to restaining. You must seal the glass to prevent future water spots from returning.

To fill in the fresh and porous glass surface, apply your sealer, allow to dry, then buff with a clean towel.

Using the the outlined methods previously stated, you can restore most windows and shower doors. If you’re not too keen on the hands on approach, we’re here for you. ShinePro Window Cleaning provides hard water stain removal, shower door restoration, and of course, window cleaning. Whether you call Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, or Indian Wells your home, we’re at your service. Are you further west towards Redlands, Yucaipa, or Beaumont, California? We got you covered! Call, text, or email today to set up your free estimate.