Accent Glass Resurfacing

Frequently Asked Questions

Scratch Removal/Glass Polishing FAQ
Jump To: Windshield Repair FAQ

"Can you work on low-e glass? How about tempered?"
Yes, we can work on both. In fact, most windows we work on are low-e, and the polishing process does not disturb either the low-e film or the seal of the window. All types of glass can be repaired: tempered, plate glass, tinted, beveled glass, auto glass, and even mirrors.

"Isn’t it true that polishing glass will cause distortion?"
Not so with our technique. We have perfected the art of polishing glass and can achieve distortion-free results each time. Unique pads and compounds allow us to remove scratches ranging in depth from .004" (deep enough to catch your fingernail) to .020" with no distortion! With a little extra time and care, even severe scratches with chipped glass fragments and dust throughout the damaged area can be successfully repaired, such as those commonly associated with graffiti.

"How does it work?"
Removing scratches involves a multi-stage grinding and polishing process. After selecting an abrasive grinding disk that is matched to the severity of the scratch, we remove glass stock until the damage is gone. This first step is critical to a successful repair and requires patience and skill. The goal is to “feather” the grinding out over a large area so as to avoid any distortion. Then, finer abrasives are used to prep for the final polishing stage, after which the glass looks as good as new.

"What caused this damage?"
There could be a number of things. Causes incidental to residential and commercial construction are squeegees, razors, falling stones, mortar, stucco, ladders, sanders, window production, installation… the list goes on. Mineral deposits from sprinkler systems and graffiti are problems commonly encountered in building management. With automobiles, the causes are usually old windshield wiper blades and makeshift ice scrapers. All of these can be easily repaired.

"Can windshield chip repair methods be used on damaged flat glass?
Chips, dings, or flakes are usually not repairable with the polishing technique used for flat glass. There are a few rare cases in which applying windshield repair resins would be desirable, but this should always be pursued as a last resort. Difficulty and expense of replacement, product availability, and client preferences should all be factors in this decision. An on-site inspection and consultation is recommended.

Windshield Repair FAQ

"Will the chip disappear completely?"
No, not completely, but it should look significantly better. Most breaks are characterized by a dark or reflective blemish in the glass. The repair process will remove the blemish and restore visual clarity by 85-90%. It will, however, leave a slight scar, and this is a normal aspect of the repair.

"Isn’t it true that a break on the driver’s side of the windshield cannot be repaired?"
No, this is false. However, there is a small 8 inch box directly in front of the driver that is considered the acute area. Repairs are not recommended in that area, but breaks in all other areas can be repaired.

"Is windshield repair a permanent fix?"
Absolutely. If done correctly, windshield repairs are permanent. Any break that is less than the size of a 50 cent piece can be permanently repaired. In fact, Accent Glass Resurfacing gives a Lifetime Warranty against chip failure with every repair.

"Will repairing my windshield cause a problem when I trade in my car or turn in my leased vehicle?”
No. In fact, car dealerships and lease companies usually repair windshields before they resell their cars, so there shouldn’t be any problem selling your car with a repaired windshield.

"I have a zero deductible. Won’t a new windshield be free?"
Well, not exactly. While you may not have to pay the glass company for the new windshield, you will wind up paying for it through higher insurance rates. An average windshield costs around $300, and some go as high as $1000. You’d better believe your insurance company will notice a $300-$1000 claim on your insurance. But since the cost of a windshield repair is usually only around $50-$70, your insurance company will gladly waive any deductible you may have, and pay for the repair.

"Isn’t a new windshield safer than a repaired one?"
Not necessarily. Your windshield was installed at the factory with an extremely strong adhesive that created a safe, leak-proof seal. When installed improperly, there is a chance the replacement windshield could pop out during an accident, placing you and your family at great risk.