Scratches in your window glass can affect more than just the appearance of your home. They can interfere with visibility and increase draftiness, which can impact the comfort of your home and lead to higher energy costs. The good news is, while deep scratches may require the assistance of a glass professional, minor surface scratches can sometimes be addressed without the need to call an expert. Of course, there’s no guarantee, but if your windows have been scratched a bit, here are a few tips and tricks that might be worth trying.
Before You Begin…
The first thing you should do before attempting to get scratches out of your windows is to thoroughly clean the glass surface. Whether you opt for a commercial glass cleaning product or something more natural, like vinegar mixed with distilled water, be sure to use a clean, soft cloth. Many fabrics, including paper towels, can be rough on glass and actually make scratches worse. We also strongly recommend testing out the following suggestions on another piece of glass first, such as an old picture frame, to be certain you’re using the technique properly and it won’t cause any further damage.
Try Toothpaste
Believe it or not, toothpaste can be effective for more than just cleaning and polishing your teeth. It can also sometimes be effective in buffing scratches out of glass. Once the surface of your window has been thoroughly cleaned and dried, use a damp, lint-free cloth to apply white, non-gel toothpaste using a light, circular rubbing motion for approximately 30 seconds. Use a clean cloth to remove the toothpaste and see if the appearance of your glass has improved. You may need to repeat this process multiple times to achieve the desired result.
Try Clear Nail Polish
Another solution that may be effective is to coat the scratched surface with a layer of clear nail polish. In doing so, the polish seeps into the grooves caused by the scratch, minimizing their appearance. Simply use the polish brush to apply a thin layer over the scratch and let it stand for at least an hour. Once it’s fully dried and settled in, you can then use a clean cloth dipped in nail polish remover to wipe away any residual polish that’s left on the glass surface.
Try Baking Soda
If you’re like most people, you probably have at least one box of baking soda in your cupboard or freezer. Create a 50/50 blend by combining one part baking soda and one part water to make a paste. Gently rub the paste into the scratch and then use a clean cloth and warm water to wipe it away. Again, this process may require multiple attempts to achieve the desired results.
When to Call a Pro
If you’re unsuccessful using any of the above techniques, or the scratches in your windows are simply too deep for a DIY repair to work, it’s probably time to enlist the help of a professional. Our glass experts are available to assess any situation and provide honest recommendations. Whether it’s a simple repair, or something more in-depth, you can be confident in our professional advice. Get in touch today to get started.