Moving into a fixer-upper or an older home provides plenty of opportunities to update, rehab, or freshen any dated features. Older homes may have windows that do not contain privacy glass, such as in bathrooms. Until you're ready to completely replace those old windows, why not try your hand at giving your bathrooms and other rooms much-need privacy? Read on to learn about a few easy and budget-friendly ideas.
Frost Spray Your Way To Privacy
Most major home improvement stores offer frosted glass products that yield a frosted finish, rendering the window glass non-transparent and completely private. Spray can also be used on shower doors. Here are some simple steps to follow to achieve this look:
- First clean the interior of the window with an ammonia-based glass cleaner, making sure there are not fingerprints, lint, or dust left behind. Wearing lint-free gloves helps eliminate any marks.
- Place protective tape around the window and wall to keep paint mist off of other surfaces.
- If desired, apply any removable stickers that may be included as a decorative component. Firmly press down on the edges of the stickers.
- Carefully read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the frosted glass paint. Wear a breathing mask to cut back on inhaling fumes.
- Holding the can about a foot from the window, spray light coatings in even strokes in the same direction across the surface. This helps the paint appear more uniform. Let it dry for 24 hours.
- When the paint is thoroughly dry, carefully remove the protective tape and decorative stickers. Clean the surface with glass cleaner once more.
Cling To Simple Projects With Window Films
If painting glass seems too daunting, try using window film to make your bathroom more private. Window film can be purchased at most hardware or home improvement stores. Static electricity helps these films adhere to the glass, but they are easily removed and reapplied if you make a mistake.
- Cut the film to fit the shape and size of the window.
- Clean the window to remove dust and lint. This helps the cling adhere better.
- Lightly spray the area with a solution of warm water mixed with a couple drops of liquid detergent. Do not wipe the spray off.
- Carefully peel the backing off the film. Beginning at the top of the glass, apply the film. Work downwards and use a squeegee to remove any air bubbles as you go.
Sketch On Your Creativity With Etching Cream
Etching cream is an acidic liquid that permanently engraves the surface of glass. This can also be found at hardware or craft stores. Unlike frost sprays or window film, etching cream allows you to explore your creativity by letting you fashion your own designs. The results are permanent, so make sure you have a steady hand and a final vision you love.
- Create stencils of your sketch ideas by drawing or tracing your designs on regular or adhesive contact paper, then cutting them out with an X-Acto knife. You can employ simple, modern lines, or just circles. Keep in mind that fleur-de-lis and other complex shapes require more cutting.
- Clean the glass with glass cleaner and lint-free cloth.
- Apply the stencil design. Peel the back off the contact paper, or apply regular paper with masking tape. If stencils are not firmly adhered to the glass, the final etching may not be as clearly defined.
- Wearing gloves, apply the etching cream according to the manufacturer's directions. Usually, you can use a small paintbrush and paint a thin coat inside the stencil. Wait 5 minutes, and then wipe the cream off with a warm, wet paper towel.
- Carefully remove the stencils.
If you'd rather have the glass professionally replaced, contact a glass replacement service in your area for more info.
