How does water stains work?

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Have you ever looked at your vehicle, and wondered what the science behind those little unfortunate water spots happens to be? 

Well, water spots are most frequently created when hard water is left on a surface – paint or glass – to dry (technically, evaporate). This can be due to not drying your car after a wash, parking your car a little too close to a sprinkler, or even from rain water that is left on the surface too long. In a best case scenario, the minerals and dirt in the water are simply left on the surface of the paint after the water has evaporated off.

Things get worse if the water contains something corrosive that etches the surface as it sits, creating a “crater.” If not addressed, these craters can actually get worse over time, as water will pool in them and continue to etch the same spot.

Oftentimes, just taking the least aggressive surface cleaning product route will make it hassle-free, and wipe away the dirt and minerals that have become dried from sunlight. If this method doesn't work, some people have tried remedies such as clay - all the way to using a polisher. Regardless of the case, SERVPRO of Cedar Mill / Oak Hills specializes in water damage. We have the products and professionals to ensure your mess goes away without any stress. Inquire with us if you happen to stumble across a bad case of water damage in your life!