When you first installed your glass shower doors, you likely enjoyed their clear, sparkling appearance. However, over time, you may have noticed an unsightly film or residue building up on the surface. This buildup is caused by minerals in the water, which cling to the glass as water droplets evaporate.
Hard water contains higher levels of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium and tends to leave more noticeable deposits. Soft water, on the other hand, has been treated to remove these minerals, making it gentler on your glass fixtures. Understanding what hard water is and how to deal with it can help you maintain the pristine look of your shower doors and prevent mineral buildup from becoming a persistent problem in the future.
The Effect of Hard Water on Glass Shower Doors
Hard water contains a high amount of dissolved minerals including calcium, magnesium, and lime. Rainwater is soft, but by the time it passes through the ground, into waterways, and out of your showerhead, it has picked up plenty of minerals.
Very hard water – defined as 10.5 grains per gallon (GPG) or higher – is found across the country, especially in the Midwest, pockets of the Southwest, and Florida. The six metro areas notorious for having the hardest water in the country include:
- Phoenix, AZ
- Tampa, FL
- Indianapolis, IN
- Minneapolis, MN
- Las Vegas, NV
- San Antonio, TX
When hard water exits your taps, it leaves behind dingy clothes, spotted glassware, and filmy shower doors. Soap is less effective because it reacts negatively with magnesium and calcium. Even your hair may feel sticky and look dull when washed in hard water.
How to Remove Hard Water Buildup from Glass Shower Doors
A damp sponge and even window cleaner aren’t enough to remove hard water residue from your glass shower doors. Instead, try these tips:
- Spray on a commercial lime- or calcium-removing spray specifically designed to remove hard water spots. Be careful not to spray any grout or stone in the shower to prevent damaging these materials.
- For fresh hard water spots, rub the shower door with a dryer sheet to lift residue without scratching the glass.
- For stubborn hard water spots, first spray lemon juice on the shower door. Then rub on a paste of baking soda and vinegar with a soft cloth or sponge. Immediately rinse and dry the door.
How to Prevent Hard Water Buildup on Glass Shower Doors
Once you remove the buildup from your shower doors, prevent its return with these tips:
- Wipe down the door after every shower. A squeegee is an effective tool for the job.
- Use ClearChoice protective coating to reduce water stain damage.
- Install a water softener if you live in a hard water area to bring mineral hardness down to about 3 GPG.
If you’re ready for a new glass shower door design, look to Glass Doctor® for help. Learn more about our services by contacting Glass Doctor today.
Transitioning from Hard Water toSoft Water
A long-term solution to your hard-water problem can be transitioning to soft water. This can be a game-changer for your home, especially when it comes to cleaning your shower doors and fixtures. Its low mineral content helps prevent the buildup of unsightly soap scum, limescale, and water stains.
Beyond cutting down your cleaning time, soft water also offers benefits for your skin and hair. Hard water can leave your skin feeling dry and irritated and can cause hair to appear dull and brittle due to the mineral buildup. Soft water, on the other hand, allows soap and shampoo to lather more effectively, leading to a better cleanse without leaving behind residue.
It also helps maintain your skin’s natural moisture balance, reducing dryness and irritation. For your hair, soft water leaves it feeling softer and shinier, as it doesn’t strip away natural oils or cause buildup that can weigh it down.
Making the switch to soft water can be done in a few different ways, with the most common being the installation of a water softener. These systems come in various sizes to suit different household needs, from smaller, point-of-use softeners for specific fixtures to whole-house systems that treat the water supply throughout your home.
Why Choose Glass Doctor for Your Shower Door Installation
Choose Glass Doctor® for a seamless, professional glass shower door installation. Whether you’re upgrading your bathroom with a custom shower enclosure or replacing an outdated shower door, Glass Doctor offers expert services tailored to your needs.
Our skilled glass service professionals have the expertise to handle every aspect of your shower door installation, from precise measurements to proper sealing and fitting. We work with a wide range of glass styles and hardware options to create a stylish, functional solution that fits your space perfectly. With our Neighborly Done Right Promise™, you can trust that your installation will be completed on time, with top-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Glass Shower Door Installation Services Near You
Ready to enhance your bathroom with a beautiful glass shower door? Contact your local Glass Doctor or schedule an appointment to get started on your custom shower door installation today. Contact us to request a job estimate for more information.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Glass Doctor is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Glass Doctor location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.