How to Get Scratches out of Plexiglass

lexiglass is commonly used in window panes and it is stronger than conventional glass. In this way, it makes it easier to use plexiglass in places where damage is likely to occur. For this reasons, plexiglass use has become common. However, most plexiglass varieties aren’t scratch-resistant and even the most expensive plexiglass develops scratches over a period of time. Replacing plexiglass can be expensive, so it is best to try to do it yourself first. You can remove scratches by either scrubbing the scratches, or polishing them. However, if the scratches are very hard-to-remove by using either of these methods, you can combine minimal scrubbing with polishing to get better results.

Step 1—Preparing Glue

Put some glue on a small sheet of paper and it allow it to dry. You can use the most common variety of glue (school glue), not industrial glue. Once the glue dries it should develop a distinct, dry, upper coating.

Dip a cotton swab into the drying glue and apply directly over the scratched surface. Be sure to dab the glue and not smear it. Then, allow the glued scratches to dry for about an hour.

Step 2—Scrubbing Scratches

Using a moist sponge, repeatedly rub over and around the glued scratched. This ensures that any excess glue is removed and only the required amount of glue is embedded into the scratches. Let the scrubbed scratches dry for an hour. In order to polish the scratches, there area few things that can help you:

• Multi-application Polishes (creams): These polishes are sold as polishing kits, containing two-or-three creams. Each of these polishing creams has a specific role. For example, they can neutralize the edges of the scratches or fill in the groove of the scratches. Each cream should be applied according to the packaged instructions. Usually, such polishes yield a better result since every aspect of removing the scratch is addressed.

• Single-application Polishes (sprays): Usually sold as sprays, these polishes are very easy-to-handle. You need to spray the scratched surface and wipe-it-clean. Most of these polishes contain dust-repellants. They deter debris and dust from settling around the scratched surface.

Step 3—Applying Scratch-removing Polish

In order to apply the polish, begin by shaking the container so that you evenly distribute all of the chemicals. Use a cotton swab, or the attached applicator for cream-based polishes, and squeeze-out some of the cream on the applicator or the cotton swab. Dab the scratched plexiglass with the polish. If you are using spray polish, simply spray the polish on the scratches.

Step 4—Polishing Scratches

Using a clean piece of cloth, rub the polish into the scratches. Do this repeatedly, in a side-to-side action. You can also do this in circular strokes to cover more area with every stroke. Leave the polished plexiglass to dry for a few hours. Using a dry, clean cloth, wipe-off the polish.