Most people will end asking this question in their lifetime- how do you remove paint from windows? The reason so many people ask this question is because it can be very difficult to protect windows from paint when painting near them. Whether you’re just touching up the window sill or painting the whole exterior of your home, it’s likely small flicks of paint will end up on your windows.
The good news is, it’s much easier to remove paint from windows than it is to protect them against it. With the right tools, you should be able to return your glass back to clean and shiny in no time. Before we look at how to do that, let’s start with what to avoid.
What to Avoid
Many people are wary of cleaning paint off their glass because it can cause scratches. The most important thing to remember before attempting to clean your glass is lubrication is key. Avoid trying to scrape paint off dry glass at all costs.
When you want to start removing specks of paint off your window, you should always start by washing it with warm water. You can also find dedicated lubrication solutions for your glass that will help to avoid friction.
If you’d like to use a solution but you haven’t got one to hand, you can create your own. A mixture of water, vinegar, and dish soap will work just as well. Failing that, you can also use a typical household glass cleaner to provide lubrication.
Remove Paint From Windows Using Razor Blades
The first thing you’ll need is a razor blade or blade window scraper. Make sure you can use it safely before starting this job. It can help to wear protective gloves when using any type of blade.
Before you get started, wash your window with warm soapy water and a cloth. It’s important to remove dirt and grime that could get in the way when you try to remove any paint. Once the window is clean, use the blade at a 45 degree angle and scrape in smooth strokes. Be sure to push the blade away from you rather than towards you.
Once you’ve finished, it can help to apply a solvent to your glass. This is a great window cleaning solution. Gently buff the glass with a cloth and you’ll be left with the shiny, clean glass you’ve been longing for.
What If I Don’t Want To Use a Steel Razor Blade?
If you’re worried about using a razor blade because they can be dangerous, there are other alternatives. You can pick up plastic blade scrapers that do the job just as well. Plastic razor blades also work well on wood floors when drops of paint drop and dry.
Similarly to using a steel blade, you’ll need to prep the glass first. Using a plastic blade, it’s recommended that you use a solvent on the glass first. Make your own solvent with boiling water and vinegar. Let the solvent cool slightly before taking a cloth and applying it to your window. The heat of the solvent may help to remove some of the paint before you get started.
If there are specks of paint left on your window, take your plastic scraper and scrape in short lines. Make sure to remove the blade from the surface of the window after each line, rather than move the blade up and down over the window.
It can help to repeat the solvent process once you’ve finished to ensure all the paint is removed and the glass is buffed.
Should I Hire a Professional?
Removing paint from windows can be a tedious job and if you haven’t got the right tools, you may only get half the job done. Many people who attempt the job themselves often end up calling window cleaners to finish the job. Along with the job being time consuming, it can also end up being expensive if you buy professional solutions. You also don’t want to risk scratching your glass if you have no experience of removing paint.
Hiring a window cleaning service may mean you save time and money. At Ambassador Window Cleaning, we’ll make sure your windows are sparkling clean again. We offer a range of different services to suit all needs, whether you own a commercial or residential property. If you’d like a free quote today, get in touch with us on (503) 254-3554.