The windows of your home can easily become scratched over time. Fortunately, you don’t have to replace your windows to remove these eyesores. Instead, there are several easy methods that anyone with a do-it-yourself attitude can implement to get your windows shining like new.
At First Coast Home Pros, we are well aware of how frustrating window scratches can be. That’s why we have compiled a list of ways in which you can remove window scratches and keep your home looking beautiful.
Act Quickly to Prevent Major Damage
You should act to remove scratches from your glass window when they first become visible. Home repair methods are useful against small scratches. However, when the window suffers a deep groove, you will likely need to hire a professional for scratched glass repair or window replacement.
When repairing your glass window scratches yourself, there are many options available. Here are some of the best methods we have found. Take a look and choose the option you feel best about trying.
Glass Scratch Filler Kit
There are many pre-made kits you can buy which will provide you with everything you need to get your scratched window looking like new. These kits typically contain a glass-polishing compound, along with pads you can use for application.
To use these kits, simply clean and dry your window, then apply the glass-polishing compound with the application pad as directed in the instructions. Be careful not to use too much product or rub the area excessively. Doing so could end up causing more harm than good.
Glass scratch filler kits can easily be found at a hardware store, automotive shop, or online.
Clear Nail Polish
Another option available with an item you might have laying around the house is to use clear nail polish to fill the scratches. Before you get started with this method, be sure to have both clear nail polish and nail polish remover on hand, along with a clean rag or paper towel.
To remove scratches using clear nail polish, simply apply a thin layer of nail polish to the entire area of the window that has been scratched and let it dry for approximately one hour. Once the nail polish has dried, you can lightly moisten your rag or paper towel with nail polish remover and wipe down the area where you applied the nail polish.
When you are done, the excess nail polish should be gone, and the rest should be filling in your scratches, making them disappear.
Toothpaste or Pumice Soap
Another method involving things you likely have around your home is to use toothpaste or pumice soap to remove scratches from your window. To use this method, you will either need plain white toothpaste or a mildly abrasive soap, along with a clean rag or washcloth.
If using toothpaste, it is essential to note that toothpaste containing baking soda will work better than gel-based options.
To remove scratches, you must first clean the area of your window and leave it to dry. Then, you can apply a small amount of toothpaste or pumice soap to a slightly damp rag or washcloth. Rub the scratched area for 30 seconds using small circular motions with light pressure. Use a clean rag to wipe away the excess toothpaste or soap. Repeat this process as necessary.
Fine Steel Wool
Another DIY option for removing your window scratches is to use fine steel wool. It is critical that you use the finest grade, which will be labeled as #0000 steel wool. You will also want to make sure that you are using a fresh pad of steel wool, as a used option will likely add scratches to your window rather than removing them.
To polish away your window scratches, rub the steel wool in a circular motion over the scratch, for several minutes. You can then rinse away the residue and admire the results.
Metal or Glass Polishing Paste
When shopping for a metal or glass polishing product, you should look for one that contains cerium oxide. Along with the polishing paste, you will need a clean, soft rag or sponge. Follow the instructions provided on the product when polishing your windows with this paste. Be careful not to use too much polish as this can add scratches rather than remove them.
When you have finished applying the paste as directed, you can wipe away the excess with a damp rag or sponge.
Contact a Professional for Serious Scratches
If you have deep gouges in your window, you likely won’t be able to remedy things with a home solution. For scratches that can not be removed through the above methods, you should bring in the professionals. To remove deep scratches, your windows may require a more intensive scratch removal process.
Some scratches may be beyond repair. In these cases, you will need to have the window replaced if you want to remove unsightly scratches. At First Coast Home Pros, we have extensive experience repairing and replacing windows. Give us a call, email us, or fill out our online contact form to get a free estimate today.