Glass balustrades are designed to be highly visible, so even relatively small scratches can stand out badly in sunlight or against a clear view. Replacing a complete panel can also be disruptive and expensive, which makes professional restoration worth assessing where the damage is suitable.
What causes balustrade scratches?
Common causes include construction debris, cleaning tools, contact with metal fittings, moving furniture and post-installation snagging. The visual effect depends on scratch depth, lighting and the position of the mark on the panel.
Can the scratch be polished out?
Some surface scratches can be removed or substantially improved. Deeper damage may require a larger blended working area, and edge position, coatings and the structural use of the panel all need to be considered before work begins.
Safety and access matter
Balustrade glass can form part of a safety-critical installation. Restoration should only be considered where the panel is intact and the work can be carried out safely. Cracked, chipped or structurally compromised glass needs a different assessment.
Before ordering a replacement panel
Send a close-up, a wider photograph, approximate dimensions and the location of the scratches. Photos from an angle are particularly useful because they show how the damage behaves in reflected light.
Read more about residential glass restoration or commercial glass restoration.