Denatured Alcohol

Residential
1

I looked at Denatured Alcohol at lowes and home depot. Lowes had the company “Crown” and on it it does not specify that it cleans windows. On the other hand home depot has a company called “Kean-Strip” that says it cleans windows. are they the same or should I stick with Klean-Strip? I was told that Denatured Alcohol takes paint of glass thats why I am asking.

2

Denatured alcohol only means that a component (usually methanol) added to make it undrinkable. The Klean-Strip brand has a higher concentration of alcohol than does Crown, which is why I like it better. But for the most part the two are comparable and pretty even and can be used for the same things.

I’ll point out that I use denatured alcohol for quite a few things, but not windows since I’m just now trying to grow the window cleaning side. I want to make that known because there’s a lot I don’t know about windows and films and different types of glass, so I’m not qualified to advise you on how (or if) to use denatured alcohol on windows - I can only tell you what it is and say that the two brands you asked about are virtually the same, with only a relatively small difference in formula.

3

I have never found a case where denatured alcohol removed paint.

4

Denatured alcohol is ethanol, with an additive, as Dave said, to make it undrinkable. The main additive has traditionally been 10% methanol, which it why it is usually referred to as “methylated spirit.” Other typical additives include isopropyl alcohol, acetone, and other ketones.

The most common use for denatured alcohol is in stoves, heaters and lamps. Sterno is a thick, jellied form of denatured alcohol with a colored dye in it. There are many other products that will remove paint that are more efficient and cheaper.

Also, denatured alcohol is virtually colorless when it burns, which can be dangerous, but water will put it out quickly.

5

I don’t think it will take paint off glass, unless it is fresh, and if it is that fresh, you could pick it off with your fingernails. It is kind of just personal preference, but I prefer to use Isopropyl if I need alcohol in my solution because the smell of Denatured makes me gag.

6

Maybe try oil-flow?

7

Thanks guys for the help!