Scratched glass does not automatically need replacing. In many cases, professional polishing can remove or substantially improve scratches while leaving the existing pane in place. See our professional glass scratch removal service for an overview of the work we assess.
What does glass scratch removal cost?
There is no useful one-price-fits-all figure because the cost depends on the size of the damaged area, scratch depth, access, glass type and the amount of polishing time required. A small localised scratch may be relatively straightforward, while multiple scratches across a large bifold door, shopfront or patio panel can take considerably longer.
At Elite Glass Restoration, each job is assessed individually. Photographs are often enough for an initial opinion, although some damage is better assessed in person.
What affects the price?
The main factors are the number and depth of the scratches, the size of the pane, whether the damage is concentrated or spread across the glass, access to the working area and the finish that can realistically be achieved.
Very light surface marking may require less work. Deeper scratches generally need more stages of controlled polishing. The aim is not simply to make the scratch shiny: the surrounding glass has to be worked carefully to avoid creating noticeable optical distortion.
Is polishing cheaper than replacing the glass?
It often can be, particularly with large, awkward or expensive panes such as bifold doors, patio doors, shopfronts and architectural glazing. Replacement can also involve measuring, ordering, fitting and disposal, whereas restoration keeps the original glass in place.
However, restoration is not automatically the right answer for every pane. If damage is too severe, badly positioned or the glass itself is otherwise defective, replacement may make more sense. A professional assessment should establish that before unnecessary work is carried out.
Can builders’ scratches and scraper marks be removed?
Many scratches caused during building, decorating, plastering or window cleaning can be improved or removed using specialist glass-polishing equipment. The result depends on the individual damage and glass.
Getting an assessment
Elite Glass Restoration provides mobile glass scratch removal across the Thames Valley, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and parts of Surrey, including Windsor, Beaconsfield, Gerrards Cross, Ascot and surrounding areas.
If you have scratched glass, send clear photographs showing the whole pane and close-ups of the damage through the contact page. We can then advise whether professional restoration is worth considering before you replace the glass.