Remove cement from windows as carefully as possible. Otherwise, there is a risk of damaging the glass surface, leaving scratches and gouges on it. Therefore, it is recommended to be patient – there are very few quick and at the same time safe ways to remove cement.
We have collected several ways to clean cement from windows that will not damage glass and plastic.
Use of special solvents
The most correct solution would be to purchase a special solvent for cement and concrete. These substances destroy the structure of the building material, but do not have a harmful effect on the glass or plastic of the frame.
Instructions for the use of such solvents are individual for each type. It is usually listed on the packaging. The standard procedure is as follows:
Spray the product using a spray gun (built-in) on the contaminated area, and leave for a few minutes;
Using a soft sponge moistened with water, remove the resulting foam and dirt. Try not to rub hard on the glass – this can lead to scratches;
If there is still concrete left on the glass, repeat the procedure. If not, wash the window with your usual detergents. After that, it can be further polished by washing with a solution of vinegar, ammonia or salt.
Glass cement removers are caustic. Therefore, all work with them must be carried out in protection: rubber gloves, a respirator or mask, if necessary, goggles. In case of contact with the skin or mucous membranes, immediately rinse the area with running water.
Use of household solvents
To combat cement stains, household solvents can also be used. They are especially effective in cases where the pollution is small. Alcohol or acid based solvents are suitable.
Can be used:
Medical alcohol or vodka or other strong alcohol;
9% vinegar or a solution of 70% vinegar essence (2 tablespoons per 1 glass of water);
A solution of citric acid (2-3 tablespoons per 1 glass of water).
The procedure is quite simple:
Apply solvent to the stain. You can use a spray bottle, a brush or a sponge dipped in it;
Leave for 1-3 minutes until the cement softens;
Using a non-sharp spatula – such as a silicone kitchen, plastic card or cardboard sheet – carefully remove the stain;
Wash the glass with a solution of baking soda (1 tablespoon per glass of water) to remove streaks and acid agent residue;
Wash the glass again in the usual way – with or without special products.
You can also use bleach solution if available. It is recommended to use clarified, but its preparation takes about a day and requires mixing. To prepare a working solution, mix 20 grams of bleach and 1 cup of water.
All procedures with bleach must be carried out with gloves, a respirator and goggles. This substance is characterized by increased causticity and biological activity, therefore it is dangerous for the skin of the hands, mucous membranes, eyes and respiratory apparatus. It is also not recommended to use bleach for washing the inside of windows, and in principle it is required to use it only in well-ventilated areas.
Removing cement from the window profile
If the protective transport film has not been removed from the profile, it’s time to remove it. Cement stains will also come off with it.
If the stain has got on the plastic profile, from which the transport film has already been removed, then try to remove it with plain water and any detergent. The use of solvents in this case is not recommended, as they can damage the PVC structure.
Stains that are too large to remove in this way will need to be cleaned off:
Soak the sponge with a solution of any detergent in warm water;
Apply it to the stain and leave for 10-15 minutes;
Take a sharp object (it is recommended to start with plastic spatulas and cards) and try to carefully scrape off the stain. Try not to leave scratches on the profile;
After removing the cement stain, wipe the profile with a soft cloth – a clean rag or microfiber.
A sanitary cleaning gel (for example, Comet brand) is also capable of softening the cement. Apply it directly to the stain and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Then collect with a soft cloth, napkin or rag.
Also, as in the case of glass, the use of hard scrapers, metal brushes and similar tools is not recommended. They can leave deep scratches on the surface of the profile, which will not only “collect” dirt, but also lead to a reduction in the operating life of the window.
Attention! This material is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.