The Fingernail Test to Determine
To determine the extent of repairability, the fingernail test can be performed by anyone. Run your fingernail along the affected area and hope it doesn’t get snagged. If your fingernail picks up the scratch, the glass break may need to be repaired by a professional. If you are unable to feel the scratch on your windshield, it is likely that the damage has been superficial. You can repair the windshield for a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire windshield.
Scratch vs Crack
A scratch on the windshield doesn’t penetrate the glass as deeply as a crack. It can get worse over time. Driving can become more hazardous if you have scrubbing. Some drivers find scratches annoying and can even make driving more dangerous. It is best to replace windshield wiper blades every other day (see our guide here on the best blades). However, any windshield will get scratches from road debris.
Also Read: BEST WAYS FOR CAR WINDSHIELD
How to remove scratches from windshields?
There are many methods to get rid of windshield scratches. Many car owners will be tempted to try natural remedies or ingredients that they can easily find in the kitchen. Although there is no way to guarantee that these methods will remove windshield scratches completely, it is better to use the scientific method that has been proven to work in labs after many tests. It is worth knowing the DIY options available to remove windshield scratches.
Also Read: Winter Car Windshield Care: Tips for Your Auto Glass
You can either hire a professional to repair your windshield glass or use a DIY kit. You can remove light scratches or reduce their appearance by polishing them. Professionals should use special polishing tools to remove deep scratches. A windshield repair technician will provide a quote depending on the extent of the scratch and the area that needs to be repaired.
Also Read: Ways to Deal With Car Windshield Scratches
Baking Soda
Baking soda can be used for many purposes. It can be used to treat heartburn, bad breath, refresh the mouth, whiten teeth, alleviate itchy skins, sunburns, and remove scratches from the windshield.
Also Read: Quick Guide to Getting Rid of Car Windshield Scratches
You need these things to fix a scratched windshield
- Baking soda
- Water
- Microfiber cloth that is lint-free
Steps to Use Baking Soda for Scratch Removal
Make a paste using equal amounts of baking soda and water to begin the repair. Use a microfiber cloth to rub the paste onto the affected area. Continue to rub the paste several times. Finally, wipe away any excess paste with water or a dry cloth. Continue this process for several days until you see no more scratches.
Also Read: Best Windshield Repair Tool for Scratches
Acrylic nail polish
Acrylic nail polish can be used for many purposes, just like baking soda. Acrylic nail polish has strong sealing properties that provide protection. The application process is simpler than baking soda, as no mixing is necessary.
- Acrylic nail polish
- Water
- Microfiber cloth that is lint-free
Steps to remove glass scratches with acrylic nail polish
Apply the acrylic nail varnish directly to scratches. Let it dry for about a minute before applying. For a shiny finish, wipe off any excess liquids using a microfiber cloth. This could only be used for very minor or superficial scratches.
Also Read: If Scratched Car Windshield Glass is Safe
Cerium Oxide
Cerium oxide, also known as ceric oxide or cerium powder, is an oxidation reaction of cerium, a rare-earth-metal in the form pale yellow-white. Cerium oxide is a commercially important product that can be used in many fields such as hydrogen production and sensing, fuel cell, photocatalysis devices, semiconductor devices, catalysis or adsorption, biomedical uses, and even for medical purposes. Cerium oxide is ideal for removing scratches from glass due to its sealing properties.
Also Read: What is the cost of replacing my windshield?
Here are some things you should do to fix the problem:
- Cerium oxide
- Water
- Microfiber damp cloth
Steps to Use Cerium Oxide For Scratch Removal
You will need two parts cerium dioxide and one part lukewarm to fix glass scratch. The amount of water you use can be adjusted to suit your needs. To polish the scratch surface, add more water. Reduce the water to make a creamier paste for more severe window scratch repairs. Use the cerium oxide paste to repair the windshield scratches. Wipe off any excess with a microfiber cloth.
Also Read: HOW DO I REPLACE OR REPAIR MY CAR WINDSHIELD
Glass Scrub Compound
Glass scrub compound products can be used to remove stubborn glass dirt, tough grimes, and grits. These products can also be used to remove light scratches from windshields and automotive glass. These scrub compounds contain leveling substances that smoothen the glass’s surface and remove scratches. It can be used for both cleaning and scratch removal. This only works for very light hairline scratches. You need to be more aggressive if you want deeper cuts.
Also Read: HOW CAR WINDSHIELD REPAIR KEEP YOU SAFE
You will need these things to repair your car’s windshield.
- Products made from glass scrub compound
- Microfiber cloth
- Water spray
Step by step Guide to Using Glass Scrub Compounds to Get Rid Of Glass Scratches
Follow the instructions to ensure a successful repair. You might end up with more scratches than you remove. Clean the area and then apply the compound to a moist, lint-free microfiber towel. After applying the compound to the area, rub the damp cloth gently on the scratched area using circular motions and even pressure. Between rotations, spray the repaired area with distilled water. Otherwise, you will see more fine scratches. This may mean that you need to repeat the process several times until the scratch disappears.
Non-gel Toothpaste
Refreshing toothpaste does more than just clean and whiten your teeth. The toothpaste also acts as a grinding paste, smoothening the entire area and leveling the glass surface. The minty toothpaste is an inexpensive and simple way to remove small scratches from the windshield.
Here are some things you should know about automotive glass scratch repair
- Non-gel toothpaste
- Damp microfiber cloth
- Water spray
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