Looking through a scratched windshield can be more than a nuisance. The inconvenience of having to peer through scratch marks or look around them to safely navigate the roadways can also be a danger to you, your passengers, and other motorists. If your vision is obstructed it is possible to fix a scratched windshield without having to replace it.
Minor Windshield Scratches
Light scratches in the windshield can normally be fixed. These are the ones that are visible to the naked eye and when you run your fingernail across them your nail does not catch. Since these scratches are not deep there are a few, simple ways to address them.
Acrylic Scratch Remover
Perhaps the easiest method is to use an acrylic scratch remover. When applied, this liquid fills the scratch cavity and dries hard. The chemicals fill the scratch while drying transparent and hiding the damage.
Cerium Oxide
For deeper scratches, such as windshield wiper burns or other light scratches, a more serious solution is necessary. Many auto glass repair kits will contain an ingredient called cerium oxide. This chemical, when buffed into the glass, helps bond the compound with the auto glass. It is commonly used with jewelry and ceramics and cerium oxide is applied with a polishing wheel.
The polishing wheel features a dense, wool-felt wheel that is mounted to an aluminum adapter plate. Typically a shank extends from the wheel so it can attach to a standard drill. After the cerium oxide is mixed with water to make a paste similar to glue, the substance can be applied over the scratched area. A drill with a polishing wheel affixed will apply pressure in a scrubbing motion to slowly smooth the surface. As long as the paste remains moist, cerium oxide can be added until a smooth, scratch-free surface is obtained.
Whitening Toothpaste
White toothpaste that has baking soda as an ingredient is your best option for scratch removal. Simply apply a dot of toothpaste and rub it all over the scratched area. Repeat the process as needed. Then wipe the excess toothpaste with a damp cloth and see if there has been an improvement to the scratch.
Major Windshield Scratches
Depending on the size, depth, and placement of the windshield scratch, your best option is to have it checked out by professionals and properly replaced or repaired. While most windshields will not splinter or crack after sustaining a scratch, if the scratch is in an area that obstructs driver vision then it needs to be addressed. Repairing your windshield is important and doing it quickly will reduce the chances of an accident due to obstructed vision. With readily accessible supplies, there is no reason to let scratches accumulate and create a driving hazard
But for those scratches that you just can't quite get rid of or affect your ability to drive, Auto Glass Express can provide assistance. If it is possible to repair the scratch while preserving the windshields structural integrity, we’ll do it. But if not, we’ll explore your options and explain them to you. If a windshield replacement is necessary, a quick and affordable replacement can take place so you can return to the roadways.
