What Causes Hard Water Stains?

Your water is considered “hard" when it has a high concentration of dissolved minerals, specifically calcium and magnesium. Water is a good solvent and as it moves through soil and rock these minerals dissolve in it and are carried along, eventually ending up in your water supply.

 

Problems with hard water - glass corrosion

The presence of these metal ions in water causes a variety of problems, namely, the ions form insoluble 'salts' which are left on glass surfaces - commonly called 'soap scum' or 'lime scale'.

 

Under a microscope glass has a porous surface composed of peaks and potholes. The contaminants carried by water fill those potholes and react chemically with the glass, bonding to its surface. As a result, glass easily becomes stained, scratchy to touch, and loses its transparency. Over time glass exposed to water or intensive mechanical cleaning becomes even more rough and accommodates even more deposits. This process of glass deterioration is also called glass corrosion.

 

The most common areas susceptible to hard water staining are shower screens, pool balustrades and windows located near sprinklers or areas of constant water dripping. The use of recycled water in sprinklers and when hosing around the yard will deteriorate the glass more rapidly due to the higher percentage of total dissolved solids.

Preventing hard water stains

There are really only two ways to avoid hard water stains on glass.

 

(1) Eliminate water exposure.

(2) Seal the glass after professional and complete cleaning. Nano-technology sealants are ultra-thin transparent glass coatings that completely adhere to the surface of glass and provides protection that will repel water based dissolved solids.

 

In addition, regular maintenance and cleaning will protect your investment and keep your glass looking as it should.

Removing hard water stains

When doing it yourself we recommend the use of acidic substances such as white vinegar, ethyl alcohol, or even lemon juice, diluted with water. Simply soak a towel in the mixture and apply the towel to the glass and wipe the glass in a circular motion to break down the mineral deposits. Don't use mechanical cleaning such as scrubbing and polishing unless you are prepared to invest in having your glass sealed with a nano-technology sealant.

 

Removing hard water stains does take some time and there are commercial cleaners available specifically designed to remove the stains without degrading the substrate of the glass. Of course, we can always save you the time, money and hassle. Simply give us a call and we can discuss your best options.