Painting comes with so many steps: cleaning, taping, priming, and maybe even some sanding. But what happens when you’ve done all the work only to end up with splatters of paint on your windows? It can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to ruin your project!
Here are some easy steps you can take to safely remove paint overspray from your windows.
How Does Paint Overspray Happen?
Painting takes a steady hand and while you may have taped everything off and tried your best, you might still end up with some globs of paint on your windows. It’s especially common when using a paint sprayer because the paint thins and sprays in every direction, making it harder to control.
Just a tiny flick of your brush or the spray gun can send paint flying and end up on your window. The best way to avoid paint overspray on your windows would be to tape them off with a plastic drop cloth, but we know that’s a lot of work, especially if you’re painting a whole room or house.
If you do end up with paint overspray, here’s what to do:
Tips for Safe Removal Of Overspray
Start with the gentlest solution first. Most paint overspray can be removed using a simple mixture of water and dish soap. Use a soft cloth to scrub the paint off, then rinse it off with cold water and dry it with a clean towel.
If that doesn’t do the trick, try using some rubbing alcohol. Dab a cotton ball in the alcohol and gently rub it onto the overspray until it comes off. Don’t forget to rinse off any residue with water and dry it before moving on.
If you have an oil-based paint, then you may need to use some mineral spirits or paint thinner to get rid of the overspray. Soak a cloth in the solvent, wring it out, and then dab and rub until all the paint comes off. Once again, rinse off with water and dry before continuing.
Never Use These Methods for Removing Paint Overspray
1. Never use a razor blade, knife, or any other sharp tool to scrape off paint overspray. You might end up scratching the window and making an even bigger mess!
2. Always avoid using hot water or steam on your windows. As tempting as it may be to speed up the process, it can actually warp the shape of your windows and cause permanent damage.
3. When using chemicals like paint thinner, always wear gloves and a mask to protect your skin.
And there you have it! Hopefully, these tips will help you get your windows sparkling in no time.
Windows Looking Dingy? Consider Replacing Them With Utah Window Experts
Old windows can inflate your utility bill and hurt your home’s curb appeal. If your windows are beyond the point of repair, then it might be time for a replacement. Utah Window Experts is here to help. We offer top-of-the-line windows that will look great on any home and save you money in the long run.
Schedule a free in-home consultation today to get started.