Glass gets scratched — it’s a simple fact of life. Thankfully, you may be able to fix those scratches without having to replace the pane. If you’re dealing with tempered glass, such as a shower door, glass tabletop, or other home glass surface, three DIY methods are proven to remove those pesky scratches. Learn how to remove scratches from tempered glass using only the following:
- Toothpaste and a soft cloth
- Liquid pumice soap or steel wool
- Buffer and sander
This how-to guide shares the proper materials and techniques for addressing and removing tempered glass scratches, including when it’s time to call in your trusted service professionals. Let’s start with assessing the damage before rolling up your sleeve.
Inspect Tempered Glass for Scratches and Damage First
First, clean the glass thoroughly with your preferred glass cleaner or a 1:1 water and vinegar solution and a soft rag. A clean surface allows you to get a good look at the damage. If the scratch catches your fingernail, it may be too deep to remove with DIY methods. In this case, the best course of action may be to request help from Glass Doctor® professionals.
Safety Concerns and Precautions
Tempered glass is designed to be incredibly strong but also engineered to shatter into small, blunt pieces under extreme stress. If you decide to tackle the job yourself, be sure to wear protective gloves, a dust mask, and eye protection to guard against tiny glass particles. And remember, if you’re unsure at any point, it’s best to call your trusted professionals who have the tools and expertise to handle tempered glass scratches safely.
Can You Remove Tempered Glass Scratches by Yourself?
Yes! The good news is that you can often remove small, surface-level scratches on tempered glass yourself. Our experienced glass specialists have put together the most effective DIY methods.
Toothpaste and a Soft Cloth
Apply a small amount of whitening toothpaste, which is slightly more abrasive than regular toothpaste, to a soft, clean cloth. Then, buff the scratched glass in small circular motions. The grit in the toothpaste is usually enough to remove small scratches from tempered glass.
After rubbing for a few minutes, rinse the glass with water to reveal what you’ve accomplished. If the scratch remains but seems to be getting better, repeat the process up to two more times. If the scratch remains, try using pumice soap or steel wool.
Liquid Pumice Soap or Steel Wool
Liquid pumice soap, aka heavy-duty hand cleaner, has abrasive elements that may remove scratches from tempered glass more effectively than toothpaste.
The same goes for #0000 steel wool. This superfine-grade pad allows you to buff the glass without creating more scratches. Make sure the steel wool is in good, clean condition since the presence of any rust or other imperfections could scratch the glass when you attempt to buff it.
Whether you use liquid pumice soap and a soft cloth or #0000 steel wool, buff the scratched glass by moving your hand in small circular motions for several minutes. Rinse the glass of any residue to assess your work.
Buffers or Sanders
This method can be applied if the first two options don't work. A commercial buffing compound is designed to remove scratches or polish metals. Popular options include cerium oxide and jeweler’s rouge.
Start by applying the compound you choose to an orbital sander fitted with a soft cloth or a buffing wheel on a cordless drill. Polish the scratched glass with the sander or buffer while you continually moisten the area by lightly squeezing out a trickle of water from a saturated sponge. This prevents the compound from drying out and creating more scratches.
After several minutes, set the sander or drill down and clean the glass with a soft brush and liquid dish soap. Dry the glass and inspect the scratches. Repeat these steps until you’re satisfied with the results. If scratches remain, it may be time to contact a trusted professional for an assessment.
When to Consider Bringing in a Professional to Aid in Scratch Removal for Tempered Glass
Tempered glass repair isn’t always a simple task. Should the DIY attempts have failed and you’re still looking at scratches, don’t become more aggressive in your scrubbing approach. Without the proper tools and training, you could worsen the problem.
Let Glass Doctor Assist With Your Tempered Glass Scratch Repair or Replacement Needs
When safety and precision matter most, trust Glass Doctor to remove scratches and restore or replace your tempered glass with professional care. We are trained and experienced in addressing damaged tempered glass for any surfaces, including custom-cut pieces tailored to your specific needs using advanced techniques and specialized equipment. From windows to tabletops, we provide a perfect fit and finish every time.
In fact, we take so much pride in delivering top-notch service that we back it with the Neighborly Done Right Promise™. This promise ensures our customers receive reliable, high-quality service with every visit and shows our commitment to professionalism.
Explore our Home Glass Services and find a location near you to get started. Schedule your consultation today to address your tempered glass scratch repair or replacement needs. Our glass specialists will assess the extent of the damage, recommend the best course of action, and provide personalized solutions.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Glass Doctor is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Glass Doctor location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
Tempered Glass Scratch Removal FAQs
Our commitment to solving your glass-related challenges and meeting your home and auto glass needs has helped us remain a trusted resource for homeowners and businesses for over 50 years. Whether dealing with a small crack or a major glass disaster, you can count on Glass Doctor for the solution. This includes answering your glass-related questions. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about removing scratches from tempered glass.
Can scratches on tempered glass spread over time?
Yes, scratches on tempered glass can worsen over time, especially if the surface is exposed to pressure, temperature changes, or continued wear. Even small scratches can deepen or expand over time, so it’s best to repair or replace the glass as soon as possible.
How do I prevent scratches on tempered glass surfaces in the future?
To prevent future scratches on tempered glass surfaces, avoid using abrasive cleaning tools or harsh chemicals. Always opt for soft microfiber cloths for cleaning tempered glass and ensure that objects placed on the glass are free from sharp edges or debris. Treating scratches in tempered glass surfaces immediately helps ensure their longevity and avoid bigger issues, including having to fix cracks.
Can scratches affect the strength of tempered glass?
Yes, scratches can compromise the structural integrity of tempered glass by creating weak points. While tempered glass is designed to withstand significant force, deep or widespread scratches may increase the risk of breakage under stress.