Scratch this off your to-do list!
When scratches in your glass have got you itching for a remedy…try these simple at-home ways to repair your scratched windows before opting to replace them.
Old Reliable Baking Soda
Baking soda is one of the most versatile compounds, and one of its many functions is a glass buffer! Here’s a step-by-step on how to correctly use baking soda to buff out scratches on your glass windows.
- Start by removing any dust from the window with a wet washcloth. This will eliminate the chance of rubbing dust and debris deeper into your window and actually causing more damage than you started with.
- Make a solution using half baking soda and half water until it becomes a glue-like paste. You can make as much paste as needed, depending on the size of the glass surface area.
- Using a cloth, apply the paste to the glass and use circular motions to buff it until you begin to notice a reduction in the scratch. This may take some time, so be patient!
The Toothpaste Method
As one of the most popular home-remedies for scratches on glass, toothpaste is a simple solution that almost everyone has already in their household. But, be warned! Toothpaste on scratches is also one of the easiest ways to actually damage your glass more. A way to reduce this possibility is to check and make sure the brand of toothpaste you’re using doesn’t have any microbeads or other abrasive materials in it. They may be good for cleaning your teeth, but not so much for delicate glass surfaces. A great way to combine the baking soda method with the toothpaste method is to use Arm and Hammer toothpaste. This brand has baking soda incorporated in it, making it more effective.
- Similar to the baking soda method, begin by clearing the surface of your window with a clean cloth and some warm water.
- After the surface is clean, use the same cloth to buffer the toothpaste solution onto the window, using circular motions. Be sure not to apply to much pressure, but enough to make an impact on the glass and essentially smooth out the surface.
- If necessary, repeat this process 2-3 times.
Metal Polish
For deeper scratches, try substituting metal polish you would use on silver or brass for the toothpaste in the toothpaste scratch removal method. The polish is a bit more abrasive than toothpaste to tackle those tougher scratches.
The Nail Polish Solution
Another handy way to fix those deeper scratches on your windows is to use a clear coat of nail polish. Instead of buffing your glass like with baking soda or toothpaste, nail polish actually acts as a filler for scrapes and cuts in glass and can help diminish the appearance of them. Here are 3 simple steps to use a clear coat of nail polish and some nail polish remover to get your windows looking good as new.
- Using the applicator brush that comes with the nail polish bottle, gently apply the clear coat onto the affected area of the glass. Make sure to apply a thin, even coat until the scratch is filled in entirely.
- Let the polish dry for about an hour, depending on how much you used. This should fill in the visible dents and scratches.
- After it’s completely dry, use a clean cloth with some nail polish remover on it to remove the excess nail polish from around the scratch. Feel free to buff around the scratch using a clean cloth to even out the glass’s surface.
Contact Thompson Creek for New Windows
If all else fails and you still aren’t happy with your window’s appearance, replacing broken, ill-fitting or damaged windows is always a good investment. Visit Thompson Creek to find out which window style is best for you, and get a free cost estimate.