Glass railings have become immensely popular among homeowners. They can be used for swimming pools, fences, stairs, balconies, porches, etc. They are designed to not only give your home an elegant look, but also provide a clear and unobstructed view of the surroundings
People prefer glass railings to metal and wood because they don’t require painting or polishing, and can last for many years. However, these elegant additions to your home require some effort in order to retain their appearance. You don’t need to clean the glass railings daily, however, but occasional cleaning is a good idea to help maintain their look.
Types of Stains and Simple Tips on How to Remove Them
When it comes to cleaning your glass railings, the best technique depends on the type of stain.
Dust/Dirt
Cleaning your glass railing of dust and dirt is quick and simple. Remember to wipe using a lint-free cloth to avoid leaving further stains and residue. The most effective method is to prepare a mixture of white vinegar and water and then use a newspaper (without much ink) to wipe it across the surface. This should make your railings sparkle like new.
Grime
Grime or liquid stains are a little more difficult to clean than dust or dirt. These can occur from cooking oil, food grease, or any liquid near your railing.
Wipe off the grime with a damp cloth. Avoid using hard water as its minerals can damage the glass surface. Instead, use distilled or filtered water to maintain the railing’s shine. You can also use an ammonia-based glass cleaner or a 3:1 mixture of liquid dish soap and warm water to cut through the grease.
Bird Droppings
Exterior glass railings, especially those on your balcony or swimming pool, will be exposed to bird droppings which can be very hard to clean once dried up.
Use a piece of disposable cloth and diluted apple cider vinegar to wipe off the stains. The vinegar has potent antimicrobial properties and is an excellent way to get rid of bird and animal droppings. Take safety precautions by wearing disposable gloves to avoid contact with them.
Water Spots
Water that has sat on your glass railings for a long time can cause ugly spots or streaks, which are often difficult to get rid of. Water spots can occur due to rain or snow, or after wiping the glass surface with a wet cloth.
To avoid these spots, remove any water using a squeegee. Once the glass is dry, it should be clean of any spots, streaks or marks. Get rid of any extra water on your railings with a clean, lint-free cloth.
A Few Additional Tips
● Add Lemon Juice to the Cleaning Solution
Make your glass railing sparkle by adding lemon juice to your cleaning solution. Lemon has acidic properties that are very helpful in cleaning tough glass stains. It also acts as a deodorizer and leaves a fresh smell.
● Do Not Scrub
Soak stubborn dirt, grime or bird droppings with undiluted white vinegar to loosen them before rinsing. Do not scrub, as hardened debris could scratch the glass.
● Check Brackets and Supports
Examine your glass railings’ brackets and supports monthly for corrosion or loose ends. If they’re attached to wood, be on the lookout for termites as well as mould. Generally, brackets are made of aluminum, so you don’t need to worry about rust or corrosion. However, they may become loose over time. Periodical inspections will prevent major issues.
Cleaning and maintaining glass railings is easier than it appears. You simply need water, dish soap and a lint-free cloth for cleaning and a monthly inspection for maintenance. With little effort, your glass railings will last for decades.
