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Hard Water Stains On Tinted Windows

July 16, 2011, 11:53:39 am

Does anyone have suggestions for removing hard water stains from our tinted windows? So far I have tried NAPA window cleaner and the hard side of a sponge with no luck.

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Re: Hard Water Stains On Tinted Windows

Reply #1 – July 16, 2011, 11:57:44 am

CLR. Just don't get it on any surrounding surfaces. Vinegar might help, too.

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Re: Hard Water Stains On Tinted Windows

Reply #2 – July 16, 2011, 01:04:34 pm

I would try the vinegar and water first. Use a gas station type squeegee with bug mesh sponge then squeegee off liquid, rinse thoroughly with fresh water and repeat if necessary. I got some of my well water on the windows and its about as hard as you can find. It took two cleanings with vinegar but the spots finally came off.

I guess you could use CLR, I use if frequently for other things, but I would dilute it and make darn sure you rinse very thoroughly. Repeated washings would be my preference.

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Re: Hard Water Stains On Tinted Windows

Reply #3 – July 17, 2011, 11:37:32 am

White vinegar would be my choice.  Rinse very well.  Watch you don't corrode the aluminum frames with stronger stuff.

Keith

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Re: Hard Water Stains On Tinted Windows

Reply #4 – July 18, 2011, 01:41:49 pm

Well the vinegar didn't help at all. I am wondering if the spots have something to do with possible exposure to salt air? I am hoping next week to be able to take the coach to higher ground were it is cooler and I am a little more motivated to stay outside and work on this. I am thinking CLR 50/50 with just enough on the rag so it won't drip then an immediate rinse. Thanks to those who have provided suggestions. If anyone else has any ideas I would greatly appreciate them. 

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Re: Hard Water Stains On Tinted Windows

Reply #5 – July 18, 2011, 02:25:16 pm

If it is hard water spots, it takes multiple attempts to remove them. My best tool was the bug washer screen on my window washing tool.

I will be very curious to learn how the CLR works out. Just be careful not to drip.

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Re: Hard Water Stains On Tinted Windows

Reply #6 – July 18, 2011, 05:54:50 pm

Vinegar has worked well for me but in stubborn cases, you really have to soak it repeatedly and then make sure everything gets rinsed well. I have used a little soap with the vinegar on glass. Seems to soak in better. Have tried vinegar in the shower with good results with light deposits but would not touch the thicker buildups. Stronger products like CLR may be needed but used with caution next to aluminum or paint.

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Re: Hard Water Stains On Tinted Windows

Reply #7 – July 19, 2011, 10:48:48 am

I use #0000 steel wool, use dry.  Has worked for me on all four coaches when needed.

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Re: Hard Water Stains On Tinted Windows

Reply #8 – July 19, 2011, 12:29:05 pm

Coleen,
            Try some automotive polishing compound in a small spot to see if this will work for you. I used a light polishing compound on my shower glass to remove hard water spotting and it worked very well.
Good luck,

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Re: Hard Water Stains On Tinted Windows

Reply #9 – July 19, 2011, 05:16:07 pm

Hi Coleen,
We've had success with fine pumice we got from a window shop.  Very cheap. 

Bob Thomas

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Re: Hard Water Stains On Tinted Windows

Reply #10 – July 20, 2011, 10:19:28 am

On cars, a light rubbing compound works nice, but then I've always waxed the windows.....acts like RainX and fills the tiny pits and scratches somewhat !

Good luck and thank you for commenting on my post earlier!  I truly appreciate your time and advice!

Best regards!

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Re: Hard Water Stains On Tinted Windows

Reply #11 – August 06, 2011, 07:16:13 am

I have been successful with a product named NO STREEK Glass Polish made by TR Industries who also makes Gel Gloos. I think it can be gotten at a hardware or a Marine store. Works very well on hard water spots.

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Re: Hard Water Stains On Tinted Windows

Reply #12 – August 07, 2011, 01:31:29 pm

They worked on the windows when we had the MH buffed in preparation for new graphics. They are a little less noticeable but I am going to try each of these suggestions until I get rid of all the pesky spots!

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