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  • what can i use to clean windows before applying graphics?

    Posted by Kimberley Edwards on 2 April 2008 at 01:09

    Hello all – has anyone discovered anything that can safely and effectively replace Bon Ami bar soap for cleaning windows prior to painting or applying vinyl? I don’t know if you are still able to get it on your side, but it’s no longer available over here. They’ve stopped making it, so if you can still get it, you should stock up.

    Kimberley Edwards replied 17 years, 6 months ago 6 Members · 6 Replies
  • 6 Replies
  • David_Evans

    Member
    2 April 2008 at 01:22

    Kimberley,

    I use isopropynol if that’s the correct spelling!! Or just window cleaner depends how dirty it is. For vinyl, i don’t do painting i’m afraid.

    Dave

  • Robert Lambie

    Member
    2 April 2008 at 08:19

    using a razer blade hand held scraper, go over the whole window.
    then clean down and blow away any debris on and surrounding the window.
    clean and degrease the glass with Meths or Isopropynol as has been said.
    you should be ready to go now…

  • Hugh Potter

    Member
    2 April 2008 at 10:47

    as Rob says, a small hand held razor scraper, i have a small (4×2.5") one with a retractable blade, it’s an invaluable piece of kit!

    i usually spray the window with application / cleaning fluid first, just so i can see where i’ve already been! wipe away the mess at the bottom, final wipe of glass.. ready to go!

  • Andy Gorman

    Member
    2 April 2008 at 10:56

    Sometimes, when using meths, I find that tape won’t stick. I think meths can leave a residue. I also keep a bottle of vinegar in my toolbox which seems to work quite well. It does tend to make the place smell like a chip shop, which is good. Also, I keep a roll of 2 inch application tape with me. When masking tape won’t stick I use that instead. Even the heat from your hands can make condensation appear, don’t you find?

    I recently did a job where I had to remove about a hundred square metres of etch. It left all of the glue behind. I found that just application fluid and a Harrison scraper worked better than white spirit at removing the glue. Actually discovered this by accident when I breathed on the glass and found that the glue started scraping off easily.

  • James Martin

    Member
    2 April 2008 at 12:39

    I like the Isopropic as well; mixed 50/50 with water, use it for everything.

  • Kimberley Edwards

    Member
    3 April 2008 at 02:51

    Thanks for the replies all. 🙂

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