Thanks to modern materials technology, window manufacturers now have the ability to create inexpensive and highly efficient vinyl windows for residential applications that can easily compete with glass windows in style, longevity and appearance. There are several advantages to using vinyl windows, including the fact that they weigh only half as much as a similarly sized glass window panes. They are also much more able to withstand extreme weather conditions than glass, which comes in handy in regions where storms are common. One problem you can have with a vinyl window is that they are prone to scuffs and scratches. If the scratches very deep, you may have to replace the pane, but if it’s minor you should be able to remove the damage. The following will show you how to do this.
What You Will Need
- Protective Eyewear
- Protective Gloves
- Small Microfiber Cloths
- Brass Cleaner (Containing Ammonium Hydroxide and Petroleum Distillate)
- Liquid Soap
- Tablespoon
- Plastic Bowl
- Soft Cloths
Clean the Window
Add a tablespoon of liquid dish soap to a bowl of warm water. Use a soft cloth dipped in the mixture to wipe the vinyl window clean, ensuring that you thoroughly clean the scuffed or scratched areas. Keep in mind that you should not use paper towels or abrasive cleaners for cleaning these windows, since this could cause further damage to the vinyl surface.
Safety First
As with any other hazardous chemical, you want to use caution when applying brass cleaner, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. Put on protective eyewear and protective gloves to keep yourself safe from the cleaner you will be using. When actually applying the cleaner, make sure you are in a well ventilated area. Keep your container of brass cleaner sealed and well away from children and animals whenever you’re not using it.
Buffing the Surface
Pour a small quantity of brass cleaner on a small microfiber cloth (automotive microfiber pads last longer and work better than regular ones). You only need a few drops of the cleaner. Use the cloth to rub the brass cleaner onto the scuff or scratch, buffing it with a motion that goes with the grain of the vinyl. Be as gentle as possible while doing this so that you don’t cause further damage. The primary goal in this process is to buff the plastic surface a bit, while the other objective is to fill any cracks with the cleaning compound.
Clean and Reapply (If Necessary)
With a clean, unused cloth, wipe away any excess brass cleaner remaining on the surface. Examine the vinyl window pane to determine if the scuffs or scratches can still be seen. If they can, apply more brass cleaner using a pad, but this time apply a bit more pressure when you are rubbing the compound into the surface. Again, use a back-and-forth motions when doing this. If multiple buffing and wiping attempts fail to remove the damage, it will be necessary to replace the vinyl window pane.
Vinyl windows are incredibly versatile, long-lasting and easy to maintain. If your vinyl windows have been scuffed or scratch, it may be possible to inexpensively repair the damage if the scratches aren’t too deep. The only way to find out for sure is by giving it a try. If it doesn’t work, you still have the replacement option.
Related Resource: Painting or Staining a Fiberglass Door
