how to buff scratches out of plexiglass

Buffing scratches out of plexiglass is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some care and patience. Here is how you can remove scratches from plexiglass:

Supplies You Will Need

Before you begin, make sure you have the following items:

• Plexiglass cleaner or mild soap and water
• Soft, lint-free cloths
• 400 to 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper
• 800 to 1000 grit wet/dry sandpaper (optional for deeper scratches)
• Plastic polishing compound or scratch remover
• Polishing cloth or buffing wheel (if using a drill)

Cleaning the Plexiglass

First, you need to clean the plexiglass thoroughly to remove any surface dirt and debris that could cause additional scratches during the buffing process:

1. Use a plexiglass cleaner or a mixture of mild soap and water to clean the surface gently.
2. Wipe the plexiglass down with a soft, lint-free cloth, ensuring it’s completely dry before proceeding to the next step.

Sanding the Scratches

Next, if the scratches are deep, sanding can help reduce their appearance:

1. Begin with a piece of 400 to 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Soak your sandpaper in water for about 5 minutes before use.
2. Sand the scratched area in a circular motion or in the direction of the scratch. Keep the sandpaper wet during this process by dipping it in water periodically.
3. Wipe the area with the lint-free cloth and check if the scratch has diminished. If necessary, repeat the process, and for very deep scratches, you may opt to use 800 to 1000 grit sandpaper for further smoothing.
4. Once the scratch is less visible, clean the area again with the cleaner or soapy water, then dry thoroughly.

Polishing the Plexiglass

After sanding, you will need to polish the plexiglass to restore its clarity and shine:

1. Apply a plastic polishing compound to a clean, soft cloth or use a specialized plexiglass scratch remover product.
2. Gently rub the compound over the sanded area in a circular motion, applying steady pressure. On deeper scratches, you may need to apply the compound repeatedly.
3. If you have one handy, you can also use a buffing wheel attached to a drill. Make sure to set the drill to a low-speed setting to avoid generating excessive heat.
4. Continue to buff the area until the scratch is no longer visible and the plexiglass regains its original clarity.
5. Remove any remaining polish with a clean cloth, and give the plexiglass one final clean.

Final Tips

Here are some final tips to ensure the best result:

• Be gentle throughout the process. Applying too much pressure can cause more damage to the plexiglass.
• Use a clean part of the cloth or change cloths frequently to avoid additional scratches from trapped particles.
• Always work in a well-ventilated area, especially if using chemical cleaners or polishes.
• Protect your hands with gloves, especially when working with chemicals or doing extensive sanding.
• Test all products and procedures on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure they do not damage the surface.

By following these steps carefully, you should be able to remove or at least significantly reduce the appearance of scratches from your plexiglass. Remember that the key to a good result is to be patient and take your time with each step.