We get it. You spot a scratch on your beautiful glass tabletop or window and immediately wonder, “Can I just buff that out myself?”
You’re not alone. Many homeowners try to polish scratches out of glass to save time and money. But before you grab that toothpaste or glass polishing kit, let’s talk about what really happens when you try to smooth out a scratch.

At San Mateo Glass and Mirror, we’ve seen both the wins and the “what-happened-here” outcomes. Let’s break it down:

✅ Pros of Polishing Scratches Out of Glass

1. It’s Cheap (If It Works)
You might only need a basic polishing compound or even some toothpaste. For shallow surface marks, this could do the trick without spending a dime.

2. Instant Results for Tiny Marks
Hairline scratches or minor blemishes sometimes fade with a gentle polish—if you're lucky.

3. DIY Satisfaction
There’s nothing like the feeling of fixing something yourself. If the scratch is light and you’re careful, it’s a nice win.

⚠️ Cons of Polishing Scratches Out of Glass

1. You Could Make It Worse
Use the wrong pressure or compound, and you could cloud the glass or cause new micro-abrasions. Now the scratch has friends.

2. Doesn’t Fix Deep Scratches
Most DIY methods only address very shallow damage. Anything deeper than a surface scuff? You’re wasting time and effort.

3. Risk of Distortion
Even a successful polish can leave the glass surface slightly warped, making reflections or visibility distorted—especially on windows or tabletops.

4. Damage to Specialty Glass
Tempered, tinted, or coated glass reacts differently to polishing. DIY attempts can damage the protective layer or affect the structural integrity.

👷 When to Call San Mateo Glass and Mirror

If you’re unsure how deep the scratch is or if the glass is high-value, leave it to us. We can assess the damage and guide you on whether repair or replacement is your best bet.

At San Mateo Glass and Mirror, we provide:

✔️ Honest inspections
✔️ Affordable glass replacements
✔️ Polished finishes that match the original look
✔️ Over 40 years of trusted experience

Final Thought

Polishing scratches out of glass might work—but it also might make things worse. When in doubt, don’t risk it.

Let the pros at San Mateo Glass and Mirror take a look and give you the clear, expert fix you deserve.

📞 Call us today or visit www.sanmateoglass.com to schedule a quick evaluation.