Hard water stains on commercial windows are unsightly. They are caused any time moisture is allowed to dry on window surfaces. But these stains can do more damage than just hurt your facility’s curb appeal. If hard water stains and other deposits are allowed to linger on your windows, they can cause irreparable damage that can lead to the costly replacement of your windows.
It takes a team effort to remove and prevent hard water stains on building windows. This is why you need an FSM who can help you understand what needs to be done to protect your windows from damage. Preventing hard water stains and window damage goes beyond just scheduling commercial window washing, although that is important. Below are ways to prevent hard water stains on windows.
What are hard water stains?
Hard water stains are caused when hard water evaporates. Hard water is water that has an increased amount of calcium, magnesium, and other compounds. Storms, sprinklers, exterior washing, and a number of other things can leave hard water on your windows. If these stains are allowed to linger on your glass, they will cause damage to your window panes.
Glass is a porous material that contains microscopic rivets and creases. Debris gets trapped in these areas and can get etched into the glass. When hard water deposits dry, the minerals collect in these microscopic rivets and create a hardened, cloudy layer. This layer will damage and weaken your windows over time without the proper care.
Porous glass is susceptible to the accumulation of:
- Hard minerals
- Oxidation
- Paint
- Dirt
- Dust
- Grime
How to prevent permanent damage from hard water stains
As mentioned earlier, preventing hard water stains on building windows takes a team effort. Everyone needs to be aware of the potential harm hard water can cause to your windows and how to prevent it. Here are some ways to prevent permanent damage from hard water stains:
Commercial window washing is an effective way to prevent hard water stains from forming on windows. Working with City Wide will connect you with the best commercial window washers in your area. Regular window washing will help prevent permanent damage to your windows caused by hard water and the buildup of other harmful debris. But sometimes regular window washing isn’t enough to prevent window damage.
Landscapers use sprinklers to water your landscaping. Let them know they need to make sure sprinklers aren’t hitting windows because this can leave hard water deposits.
Ice melt after winter storms will leave hard water deposits, dirt, and debris on your windows. Our FSMs understand your windows need to be commercially cleaned after the wear and tear of winter to prevent hard water stains and damage.
Regular pressure washing will prevent dirt and grime from building up on the exterior of your building and on window screens. Dirty window screens and exterior dirt will wash onto your windows every time it rains. Scheduling regular pressure washing for your building’s exterior will help prevent the build up of dirt and grime that can damage your windows over time.
Window inspections that check rubber seals and window frames for damage allow you to identify the early signs of permanent damage caused by hard water stains. Have your windows inspected regularly to discover damage so you can figure out the cause and make plans for prevention.
The truth is, your windows need to be cleaned and inspected by professionals multiple times each year to prevent costly damage. Hire City Wide Facility Solutions to manage all of your building needs, including window maintenance. Contact a City Wide office near you today!
