ESP Window Tinting and Graphics' Blog

How to Remove Spray Paint From Glass - Techniques for Graffiti Removal

csanchez@interactivemc.com (Cee Sanchez) — Thu, 12 Sep 2019 03:08:43 GMT

The ease of graffiti removal depends on the surface. Keep reading to discover how to remove spray paint from glass windows and protect your business.

Did you know property crime is on a decline?

That’s good news for any homeowner, but there is still the possibility of minor problems popping up.

One of the worst things that can happen to your property is vandalism. If people paint on your walls, you have to go through the process of repainting that section. That’s exhausting, but it’s nowhere near as troublesome as getting rid of vandalism on glass windows.

There’s no need to panic if it happens to you. In this guide, you’ll learn how to remove spray paint from glass. That way, you’ll know how to get rid of unwanted graffiti without damaging your property more.

If you’re ready to learn, read on and find out more.

Choosing the Right Solvent

Solvents are usually liquid substances used to make another substance dissolve. With the right solvent choice, your job becomes a lot easier. To avoid expensive mistakes, you need to familiarize yourself with common solvents.

A general rule is to use stronger solvents for long-standing graffiti. That’s another reason you shouldn’t delay and remove it as soon as possible.

Here are some solvents you should know about to properly remove spray paint from glass surfaces and windows:

1. Mineral Spirits and Turpentine

Also known as "white spirits," these are petroleum distillates.

Their main purpose is to act as a substitute for turpentine. But most painters use it as a thinner due to its low price, non-sticky substance, and less odor.

These substances are great for initial cleaning processes. After all, mineral spirits can only dissolve fresh paint. But turpentine can remove slightly-hardened paint as long as you use it properly.

2. Alcohol

Alcohol comes in many forms like isopropyl, methyl, and more.

Your best bet is to use denatured alcohol since it helps in thinning shellac. It’s also a good solution when trying to clean permanent markers off your glass surfaces.

However, be careful with alcohol. If you enjoy heat-reflective window film , alcohol could damage them. Use other methods if you’re not sure about the surface of your windows .

3. Methylene Chloride

It’s the main component of most paint removers, especially for heavy-duty brushes.

It’s often combined with other chemicals, marketing it as "graffiti removers." It’s the most effective in removing paint no matter the finish.

But take note that it will attack and make plastics soft. It’s also hard on human skin, so make sure to wear protective gloves when working with this solvent. According to the CDC , if your skin gets exposed to this substance for a long time, you might get chemical burns.

How to Remove Spray Paint from Glass

Your techniques can be as important as picking the right solvent.

In most cases, you’ll need a clean rag, using a clean section for each wipe. If you don’t, you’ll end up smearing graffiti around since the paint becomes softer.

Here are some graffiti techniques fit for the glass material you have:

1. Fiberglass

Depending on the graffiti type, you might need to work your way up on the type of solvent you’ll use.

You should remember that acetone-based solvents aren’t ideal for fiberglass cleaning. With that, you should try using paint remover at full-strength, rinsing it carefully to avoid deforming it.

2. Glass or Plexiglass

When you’re removing graffiti from regular glass, a good method is to use any razor blades to scrape away cured paint.

If you’re dealing with other marks, you can use any type of solvent. Get a clean rag and hold it over the graffiti for a short time, letting the solvent work.

After a while, the paint will become softer, allowing you to wipe it with the clean sections of the rag. If you’re trying to clean Plexiglass, you need to be aware of lacquer thinner solvents. This solvent will often attack its surface, making it foggy while causing the paint to smear.

That’s why you should ensure the compatibility of your solvent product. After you’re done with this technique, make sure to give the glass a thorough cleanse. That way, the loose paint will wash away.

For your finishing touches, wipe it with a clean, dry rag. This prevents the residual paint from drying up on your glass surface.

Remove Graffiti from Other Materials

Aside from glass, other surfaces can become targets for vandalism, too.

Keep in mind your windows also have pieces of wood and metal to hold them in place and the spray paint might affect them as well. If that happens in your property, here are some tips you can use:

1. Wood

If the marks are new, try working your way up from the weakest solvent first.

Most types of thinners will get rid of magic markers while acetone removes spray paint as long as it’s within the day. Make sure to use a clean rag and use fresh sections whenever you wipe.

Is the graffiti from latex or oil-based paints? If so, make sure to get a stain-killing primer for outdoor use. After it dries, you can use methods to remove regular paints. Consider investing in a sealer coat after you finish as a deterrent to future vandalism attempts.

2. Brick

For graffiti on this surface, you need to use extra-strength paint remover.

Apply it using a wire brush since it will work into the holes and pores of the stone. Leave it for a while so it activates and makes a deep cleanse.

After that, rinse the wall with a pressure washer. If it doesn’t work, you can try using a soda-blaster instead. For flat surfaces, you can use light grit sandpaper to get rid of the paint instead.

Once you’re done, use a sealer to close out the stone’s pores. With that, it’s easier for you to remove future graffiti.

Get Rid of Graffiti Today!

These are the tips on how to remove spray paint from glass.

Don’t hesitate to use them since your property is precious.

You have other options if the above-mentioned tips don’t work for your situation. But if you need glass coatings, we encourage you to contact us today . We’ll help you out since we have the right expertise and products that will fulfill your specific needs.

6 Benefits You Will Enjoy from Heat Reflective Window Film

csanchez@interactivemc.com (Cee Sanchez) — Mon, 26 Aug 2019 14:27:01 GMT

Interested in window tinting for your home? We put together ten benefits you will enjoy from heat reflective window film.

Are you looking for ways to save money for your next big purchase? Are you asking yourself and the internet if window tinting for your home is worth the expense?

We can tell you right now that heat reflective window film can help you save plenty of money and customers generally find the initial expense well worth the cost.

Still not convinced? Keep reading to find out the benefits of window tinting for your home!

Lower Energy Bills

The average energy bill for homeowners in the United States is around $111.

If you happen to live in an area that reaches 90-100 degrees during the summer, that average may seem quite low. Your HVAC system is responsible for up to 47% of that usage which means cooling your home could be costing you big money!

Heat reflective window film can help reduce the amount of time your AC has to run in order to make your home comfortable. This film can also help block the sun which will allow you to retain that costly cold air for a longer period of time.

With average use, an air conditioning system can last 10-15 years. However, with residential window tint, your AC doesn't have to work as hard which means you could see a few extra years of use!

No Window Treatments? No Problem

Natural light can make a small space look larger and help you conserve energy by not using unnecessary lamps or overhead lights.

Taking advantage of your home's natural brightness can put your daily life on display for the neighbors if you don't have window treatments. Unfortunately, window treatments are expensive to install, can hinder the amount of light and view, and need to be updated periodically to keep your home stylish .

Opting for residential window tint film will allow you to skip the blinds while still offering privacy and style. Additionally, a tinted film can make it harder for criminals to see into your home--if they don't know what valuables you have, it is less likely for them to try to steal it!

If you already have window treatments, installing tinted window film is still a worthwhile investment. For blinds or curtains to protect your home from harsh UV rays, stop glare, and reduce heat, they must be closed. Tinted film will allow you to open your blinds while still keeping cool and avoiding annoying glare.

No Furniture or Floor Fading

The sun is known to bleach cloth, leather, stained wood, and anything that has a bit of color including your gorgeous hardwood floors and perfectly designed furniture!

While window treatments can help protect your investments from the sun, they must remain closed which blocks the natural light you love. In order to protect your furniture and floors without sacrificing any light, heat reflective film should be installed.

Resistance to Shattering

Whether you live in an area with trees, have neighbors with kids (and their toys,) or simply forget to secure items, a major storm has the potential to shatter windows. While heat reflective window film may not prevent these issues, it does help prevent the window from shattering.

Aside from keeping your family safe from broken glass, this can help keep your home from getting soaked while the storm rages on and will give you time to find a replacement.

If a window happens to be hit by debris, the tinted film may help prevent the initial cracking which means you won't have to worry about replacements or shattering in the first place.

Heat Reflective Window Film Reduces Risk of Skin Cancer

Regardless of your ethnicity, prolonged exposure to the sun puts you at risk for skin cancer . With this said, being inside doesn't always protect you against the sun's rays.

While it's possible to develop skin cancer even with little to no exposure to the sun, sitting next to an unprotected window each day can increase your chances of this diagnosis.

Even if this type of cancer never develops, spending time in the sun can cause painful sunburns, wrinkles, and premature aging. While you are inside your home, it is unlikely that you'll wear sunglasses, thus increasing your risk of eye damage.

Using a heat reflective window film will keep your skin safe. This isn't a complete solution to skin cancer prevention as you will still need to protect yourself when outside. However, you will keep your skin looking young and healthy for longer!

Keep Your Home Warm

The phrase 'heat reflective window film' can imply that this product only works well at keeping your home cool but it also can work in reverse. Because the Great Lakes area experiences freezing cold winters, this factor is important for year-round savings!

The addition of window tinting film will act as an insulator during cold winter months, allowing your home to retain heat. This keeps your family comfortable and energy bills low.

Are You Convinced Yet?

If you haven't noticed, opting to install heat reflective window film in your home will allow for cost savings in multiple areas of your budget. Lowered cooling & heating expenses, lack of medical bills, and no need for window treatments or replacement furniture will mean plenty of extra money in your budget!

There are plenty of tinted film options to choose from to ensure the best look for your home and fit for your wallet. If you would like to see what heat reflective window film can do for your home, contact us for a consultation ! We service homes and businesses in Wayne County , Oakland County , Macomb County , and Washtenaw County for all their Window Tinting Needs