Have you just installed fresh new aluminium windows but noticed they are covered in tons of concrete spatters? It’s the worst and not a good look at all. We have the advice just for you to get your windows and aluminium siding looking good as new, so keep reading!
Removing cement from your window can be a nightmare. It’s a tough job for professionals – so get ready for some heavy work. However, we might have the best hack to removing those dreaded cement spots. Here is how to remove cement from aluminium windows:
What You Need:
- 1-gallon bucket
- Garden hose
- Specialised glass cleaning solution
- Soft sponge/sponges
- Dishwashing soap or laundry detergent
- Paper towels
- Concrete removing agent
- Spray bottle
- Soft-bristle toothbrush
- Putty knife
The Best DIY Method
Keeping your windows and stunning aluminium doors clean is crucial. Take a look at this simple method for your windows:
Step 1
Fill your spray bottle with two or three drops of dishwashing soap and some water. Spray your window down to lubricate the surface and prevent any scratches. Spray the soapy water to saturate all of the cement.
The cement absorbs the soap water due to its porous nature, making it much easier to remove.
Step 2
After you have left the cement to saturate for a couple of minutes, start scraping the cement off the glass using your plastic putty knife.
Step 3
If cement traces remain, rinse your window with the garden hose. Apply the non-acidic cement remover to the window as directed by the manufacturer.
Certain removal products are fluids that need to be diluted with water, while others are delivered using an aerosol spray.
Step 4
Avoiding direct sunlight, which could cause the remover to dry, spray on the remover in the shade. Per the manufacturer’s instructions, allow it to soak into the cement and spray some water on the cement if it begins to dry.
Use the putty knife to scrape the cement away and a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush off any stubborn spots.
Step 5
The window should be washed with clean water and dried. For adequate clearance of some difficult-to-remove cement deposits, a second cleaning session may be necessary. When you’re done, wipe away any last stains or smudges using a window cleaner.
Alternative Method
If the above method does not work for you, you could try something else. For some people, making a sugar solution in a small bowl does the job.
Using a rubber spatula, you can smear this thin paste on the affected areas and give the sugar time to soften the concrete.
Use the scrubbing side of your sponge to scrub the cement until it comes off. You may need to repeat this on tougher splatters and use more paste. Then hose down your window to get rid of any sugar residue and make sure all concrete is gone.
Cement can also be used to draught-proof your aluminium windows so they are as efficient as possible.
Things To Note
Never use steel wool or abrasive sponges to remove cement from glass. Razor blades should not be used to scrape away hardened cement that has solidified on the glass. Using these instruments risks permanently scratching or having an etching effect on the glass, meaning you’d need to get a replacement.
Avoid performing this procedure in the sun, as its UV rays’ heat dries the cleaning solution too rapidly, leaving streaking that is difficult to remove with polish. When attempting to remove chemical residue left on the glass after washing, it may scratch, which can lead to you having to change the glass in your aluminium windows.
The provided methods are much safer than the ones that require muriatic acid. It is normal to get cement on the window during installation. – just be sure to clean it as soon as possible.
At UK Aluminium Bifold Doors, we have all the best tips and tricks for cleaning your windows. You can also find out how to clean mould off aluminium window frames or, if you need any advice on caring for your aluminium door – we have got you covered!
