How to Remove Paint From Window Glass (Without Scratching)

Window Paint Is Serious Business

I look at windows all day (it’s my job) and my favorites are the stores that paint hearts for Valentine’s day, Shamrocks for St. Patrick’s Day, Basketballs for March Madness and Firecrackers for the 4th of July. We are able to provide signwriters Sydney to all businesses in Australia and our aim is to provide you cost effective signage solutions to help your business.

These seasonal graphics put me in a fun mood to celebrate and often reminds me that I haven’t bought flowers for my wife yet! (Thank you!)

Seasonal topics can be fun. For stores, these painted windows are serious business.

Reminding me to get flowers puts me into a psychological “need mode“, and the advertised deal 20% off on a dozen roses entices me to enter the store and buy them (“action mode“). We all do this every day – no big deal – but what if it’s mid-March and a store still has Valentine’s Day decorations?

Am I supposed to get flowers to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day? No. Get flowers for my wife so I can watch college basketball? It helps, but probably not necessary.

Now I’m confused.

And I begin to question if this store cares about me. It’s sending the wrong message, and I might be less likely to visit their store because of it.

Serious Business. Subtle, but serious.

Removing Paint is Messy

In response to one of my blog posts “First Impressions Matter…What Does Yours Say? (Nov, 2011)“, I received the following question:

Charles W. from Redondo Beach writes: “My store’s image is very important and we paint our windows to keep up with each holiday and event. We change our windows graphics about 10 – 12 times per year and when we remove the paint it sure is messy. Any tips on how to remove it properly and efficiently – my son Matt really wants to know. Thanks! “

Well Charles, the least messy way to remove paint is to have someone else do it! If you are (or most likely Matt is) going to remove the paint, here are some pointers to remove paint from your windows without scratching the glass and without a big messy clean up job.

The following techniques address commercial storefront windows with standard metal frames.

In future articles I’ll provide information on removing paint, stickers, over spray, etc. from residential windows.

The removal techniques for commercial and residential windows are generally the same. The differences reflect the size and scale of the jobs, plus residential windows requires a lot more detail work since you live with those windows every day.

A Quick Word About Razors

For small paint removal jobs like drips, small lettering and over spray, start by using #0000 fine-grade steel wool.

Fine steel wool is safe, works great and it gets the job done fast.

You can also use a Mini Glass Scraper. They are safe and handy for small clean up jobs and you can get them just about anywhere.

For large jobs, you are going to need a professional grade window scraper / razor or you’ll be there all day and your arm is really going to hurt from overuse.

Using a Razor to Remove Paint From Windows

Warning! Using razors can be dangerous. Do not use a razor without reading the instructions and receiving proper training.

As with any project, it’s important to always start with the right equipment.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Bucket of Soapy Water – Dish washing soap works great. Use about as much soap as you would use when doing the dishes in a sink.
  • Professional Grade Window Scraper – Your local hardware store carries many brands, we like the 6-inch Triumph Angled Scraper.
  • Painters Tarp & A Broom – This tarp catches the paint “sheets” and shavings. The broom, well it’s a broom. What do you think it’s for?
  • Window Cleaning Equipment – We recommend using a squeegee, mop and some clean dry towels. Have some #0000 fine steel wool handy too.

Got everything? Ok, let’s get started.

Step #1: Spread the Tarp & Apply Lot’s of Soapy Water

Start by laying down the tarp along the glass. Next, drench the paint and glass with soapy water. Wait about 2-4 minutes and then re-apply more soapy water before proceeding.

Always make sure the window’s surface is slippery or you can scratch the glass. Using lots of soapy water causes the paint to stick together as you scrape instead of flaking off in small pieces.

Step #2: Scrape in a Small, Inconspicuous Area First

Remove a little paint with your scraper to make sure the glass isn’t scratching. If you hear a coarse, gritty sound stop immediately and check your blade – it may be dull or broken. If so, replace it with a new one.

Also, if you see scratches, there may be imperfections in the glass and you should either stop the job or apply even more soapy water and proceed with extreme caution.

Important Note: As you stroke, always push your blade forward and lift it from the glass as you finish and reload for the next one. Scratching may occur if you drag the blade across glass during an unnecessary back stroke.

Step #3: Scrape Around the Window’s Perimeter

Angle your razor 30° – 45° away from window’s frame and remove the paint along the frames. The angle prevents the blade from catching and scratching the frame and caulking.

If the window has been drenched, you’ll notice the paint comes off in big pieces, or “sheets”, as you move across the glass.

Try to keep the “sheet” intact as you finish your stroke and gently put it on the tarp. It’s efficient and much cleaner.

Step #4: Scrape the Rest of the Window

Once the frames are clear, keep your razor’s 30° – 45° angle and use overlapping horizontal or vertical strokes to remove the remaining paint. If the glass/paint is getting dry, use more soapy water – you want big sections of paint to come off as described above.

Some newbies use their blade at a 90° or “right” angle to the paint as they try to “chip” the paint off. Do this and you’ll create flakes and probably break your blades frequently. Using a 30° – 45° angle efficiently “slices” the paint off the glass and reduces flaking.

Tip: If the paint is flaking, apply more soapy water and make sure you are keep the razor’s proper angle as you stroke.

Step #5: Clean the Glass and Clean Your Work Area

You’ve removed most of the paint off but small pieces remain. Re-apply soapy water and use a combination of the Razor and the #0000 fine steel wool to remove what’s left.

Once complete, remove & fold your tarp with the paint “sheets” and flakes, you should have caught about 80% – 90%. Discard the paint appropriately.

Use your mop and squeegee to clean the windows and remove any remaining flakes from the glass.

The remaining 10% – 20% of the paint flakes need to dry on the ground. Attempting to sweep them while wet only rubs them into the ground. It should dry in about 30 minutes.

Do you remember the broom? Good, let’s use it!

Follow these 5 efficient steps and you’ll have paint-free windows with less hassles!

Now Let’s Get Ready for the Memorial Day Sales!

Razor Safety Tips

As noted above, razors can be dangerous if not used correctly.

Because we use razors during our normal business day, we constantly train our cleaners on how to use a razor properly.

Here are some razor safety rules:

  • All razors are to be inspected prior to each use and at the end of each day.
  • All scrapers are to be carried in a safe manner or put in a safe place.
  • All protective covers must be in place at all times when the razor is not in use.
  • Two cleaners should never work side by side when scraping glass. A safe distance (approximately 5 feet) should be maintained.
  • Razors should be discarded appropriately so no one can come in direct contact with the blade.
  • If at any time a razor is broken it should be discarded in a safe manner immediately.
  • If the protective cover is broken a new properly functioning cover must be provided prior to continued use of the razor.
  • Razors should never be placed in buckets that have water in them or pockets without the protected cover.
  • Razors must be kept away from children at all times.
  • Always place the cover on the razor when not in use.
  • If at any point your razor falls let it drop. Never attempt to catch a falling razor.

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Learn how to detail a car so you don’t end up with a dumpster

When you were a kid, washing the family car required soap, a sponge, and some water. It was approximate at best, a way to kill time on a warm summer evening while earning allowance money. As an adult, you undoubtedly realized keeping a car squeaky-clean demands considerably more effort than your 8-year-old self put in. Car detailing Port Melbourne made it as easy as possible for you to arrange for us to come and work our magic on your vehicle, so that you can once again drive it with pride around the streets of Port Melbourne.

It’s well worth it, though. A clean car is like a clean house: You feel better when you’re in it. Clearing out months (or years) of garbage and dust also makes it easier to sell your ride to a private buyer, or helps you get more for your trade-in at the local dealership. If you’re not sure where to start, read on to learn how to detail a car.

Use the right products

Using the right products will save you time, prevent costly damage to your car, and ultimately yield a much better result. Car cleaning products are available from a wide variety of places. You can buy them at auto parts stores like Auto Zone, at nearly every major grocery store, or online from an endless list of vendors. We recommend picking up a dedicated car-wash product (sorry, but Head and Shoulders won’t cut it), wheel cleaner, rubber cleaner, and wax. Bug and tar remover will come in handy if your car is particularly dirty.

That is just for the exterior. To detail the interior, plan on buying carpet cleaner, glass cleaner, wipes, plus leather or vinyl care products, if applicable. Broadly speaking, there is no need to spend a fortune on high-end products to get a good result. Meguiar’s is a trusted name in the car cleaning business, and it sells a complete car care kit for a little under $60.

You also need basic equipment including a soft sponge (or a lamb’s wool mitt), a chamois, at least one microfiber towel, a sponge to clean the wheels, a bucket, a vacuum cleaner, cotton swabs, and a plastic bag. Finally, set aside a cooler with cold beverages, a playlist with your favorite tunes, and a free afternoon.

Start with the interior

It’s good practice to start with the interior, especially if your car hasn’t been cleaned in a while. The foot wells are likely full of dirt, dust, and other debris that will inevitably settle on the car’s body if they become airborne. Remove the floor mats, and fill your trash bag with the miscellaneous wrappers, empty coffee cups, and receipts that call your center console home.

Vacuum the seats, the floors, and every nook and cranny donut flakes can fit snugly into. If the carpets are clean, great; if they’re not, it’s time to bust out the carpet cleaner. Cleaner wipes work wonders on the dashboard, while cotton swabs coax dust out of small crevasses like the air vents and the space between the buttons on the center console. Slide the front seats all the way back to reveal bonus trash treasures hidden by your car’s first owner. Who knows, you might even find the MP3 player you lost last winter.

It’s a good idea to wash the floor mats, but don’t drop them in the washing machine. The best way to clean floor mats is to pressure wash them, though scrubbing them sometimes does the trick, too. Ensure they’re 100 percent dry before you even think of putting them back in the car. Wet or damp mats could cause mold to grow on the carpet, reducing your car’s resale value to below zero.

The perfect finish

With the interior taken care of, and all of the windows closed, you are ready to turn your attention to the body. Start by washing the dirtiest parts of the car first: The door jambs, the rocker panels, and the wheels. Always use a separate sponge for the wheels. They are covered in brake dust and other residues which you want to keep off the rest of the car. Don’t forget to clean your tires, too.

Hose the car down and wash it from top to bottom, going around it and rinsing the sponge often. Repeat if necessary, especially if you’re dealing with a car covered in mud, dust, or road salt, and rinse it thoroughly. Letting the body air dry will leave nasty watermarks, even if it’s parked in the shade, so use a chamois instead. It’s certainly more time-consuming, but it’s a crucial part of getting the jewel-like finish you’re after. Apply a thin, even coat of wax when the body is completely dry, and use a microfiber towel to remove the wax residue. Now you can put your equipment down, stand back, and admire your new-again car.

Other quick DIY projects

While you’re giving your car a little TLC, consider fixing some of the most common (and easy-to-remedy) maintenance issues. If you haven’t encountered the aggravation of squeaky brakes, you will one day — that’s a promise. Fortunately, there are a few solutions, most of which can be applied in an hour or two. Ever tried changing your oil? If not, you’ll be amazed by how easy the process is; you may even wonder why you’d ever pay someone else to do the job. Speaking of maintenance you probably pay for by default, rotating car tires is an easy, important task that requires minimal tools and time. In the same vein of easy, low-cost fixes, changing spark plugs is a no-hassle solution to rough idling and even cylinder misfiring. Click here for removing the dent of your car.

How to Remove Old Vinyl RV Graphics and Ghost Letters

I do have some helpful tips to share about how to remove old vinyl lettering off an RV, but first I have to mention why we might take the graphics off our mobile headquarters that have been advertising Team Agreda everywhere we’ve been over the past seven plus years… Vehicle signage Sydney are good in small advertising business.

The cat is out of the bag.

The first time those words appeared in this blog, we had just sold our sticks and bricks business and not yet even picked up the brand new 2007 Arctic Fox 245N fifth wheel trailer we purchased with plans to travel the country for a year with Jerry. That rig served us well, very well. But as Rene eluded to in her recent rant about the evolution of our lifestyle, the time had indeed come for another major life upgrade.

So upgrade we did. But more about that to come, much more.

We don’t mean to be so secretive, it’s just that we’ve been pretty busy during this transition—preparing the old rig for trade-in and buying the new one, not to mention certain roadblocks, unexpected upgrades and bit of remodeling I’ll be writing about soon! Suffice it to say, we are pretty damn happy with our new (to us) 2010 Arctic Fox 275B.

But there I go digressing again. Back to that sticky issue of those graphics…

Removing Seven Year Old Vinyl Ghosts

After doing our homework, and finding our perfect next home office on wheels, we wanted to get the best trade-in value for our old rig. The dealer gave us a quote over the phone, with the usual “subject to inspection” disclaimer. Our first thought was that we shouldn’t show up with our websites and taglines plastered all over it with vinyl letters.

But after seven years on the road, we had to remove more than just the vinyl graphics—which are much easier to put on!

Without getting to technical, exposure to the elements causes oxidation of any vehicle coating. This can create a ghosting effect behind any applied graphics. Removal of the graphics reveals the original vehicle color, creating a ghost image of any vinyl that gets removed.

So, here are those tips I promised for removing vinyl lettering, graphic adhesive and ghost images caused by oxidation…

1. Use Heat to Help Release Vinyl

Many people recommend using a rotary vinyl eraser to quickly remove vinyl letters and graphics. After spending much of my previous life in the graphics industry, however, I believe the best tool to remove smaller vinyl letters without damaging the surface below, is your fingernail. Most lettering will peel up with ease once you get under an edge.

Using a hair dryer set on Hot will make the job much easier. Warm each letter for 10-20 seconds first. Pick at an edge enough to pinch the vinyl and start peeling. Keep the heat applied while slowly pulling up and follow the contour of the letter to avoid tearing the vinyl. Maintain a distance of at least a few inches to avoid melting the vinyl or damaging fiberglass beneath, if applicable

2. Use Professional Vinyl Adhesive Remover

Getting the vinyl off is only the first step. The adhesive will still remain. As tempted as you may be to use some industrial strength solvent, do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives. Chemical based solvents are potentially dangerous to use on painted surfaces, can damage fiberglass, and have numerous health hazards.

The best vinyl adhesive remover we found is Rapid Remover by RapidTac. Rapid Remover is a water-soluble non-toxic adhesive remover that works fast! Spray it on the exposed adhesive, wait a few minutes and wipe away the residue with a sponge or plastic squeegee.

Rapid Remover works fast without causing damage to most surfaces. After removing lettering, spray any glue residue with Rapid Remover and let it penetrate for 30-60 seconds. Rub the moistened adhesive with a sponge or rag, then rinse with water and wipe surface clean.

3. Get Rid of Ghost Letters

As I mentioned, vinyl lettering or graphics left on an RV for any extended period of time will leave behind a “ghost sign” image when removed.

You cannot remove these ghosts, since they are actually caused by the oxidation discoloring the area around them. You must remove the oxidation on the vehicle’s surface to match the color beneath the vinyl that has been protecting its surface area from oxidation.

Ghost Off Oxidation Remover does the trick! This product will restore weather-exposed surfaces, eliminating ghost sign images from vehicle surfaces covered by graphics. Just spray Ghost Off onto the oxidized surface, wait about a minute and agitate the area with a soft brush. Rinse from top to bottom and watch the the oxidation flow away.

Depending on how long the lettering has been applied that you are removing, you may need to repeat the application of Ghost Off—we had to do it a few times. That’s why I recommend getting at least a gallon! You may be able to save on other RV Oxidation Removers at Amazon.

Best Tips For Removing RV Vinyl Lettering

I have two final tips for anyone preparing to remove vinyl graphics or lettering from an RV, truck, trailer or boat.

1. Use Elbow Grease.

To avoid damaging the surface, take your time and use some muscle. But don’t be tempted to use abrasive pads or harsh cleanser. You can do it, put you back into it!

2. Don’t Put Vinyl Letters On Your Rig!

Most importantly, to avoid all the costs, effort and time of removing lettering and detailing your RV, the solution is simple.

Do not apply any vinyl graphics in the first place! If we add any lettering to our new rig, believe me, it will be discreet and only be applied to the windows where it can be easily scraped off! Click here for a comfortable way in advertising your business.