Quickly Repair Cracked Mirrors With Easy DIY Solutions
Mirrors crack more often than we'd like to admit. A bump here, a scratch there--it doesn't take much for these delicate glass pieces to become fractured and unsightly. But don't despair if you look in the mirror and see a spiderweb of cracks. With the right materials and techniques, it's possible to fix cracked mirrors yourself quickly and easily.
We'll go over quick fixes for minor cracks, more advanced solutions for large fractures, and tips to avoid future damage. With a little time and effort, you can make your mirror look as good as new.
Assess the Damage
Before attempting to fix a cracked mirror, you need to assess the severity of the damage. Take a close look at the size, location and depth of the cracks. Minor surface cracks and chips can often be repaired, while fractures that extend across the entire width of the mirror will likely require replacement.
Also check for sharp edges or loose shards that need to be repaired or removed to prevent injury. Cover broken glass with tape until ready to start repairs. Ensure you wear protective gloves and eyeglasses throughout the process.
Acquire Proper Repair Supplies
The supplies needed depend on the type of crack you're dealing with:
- For small cracks, super glue or clear nail polish work well.
- Larger cracks require two-part epoxy resin, which is stronger and dries clear.
- Deep fractures may need specialized windshield repair kits with liquid resin.
- Purchase glass reinforcement mesh if the mirror has splintered.
You'll also need basic tools - clamps, tape, mixing sticks, sandpaper, and putty knives. Gather everything before starting to make the repair process fast and efficient.
Prepare the Mirror Surface
To ensure the adhesive bonds tightly, start by cleaning the mirror thoroughly with rubbing alcohol. Cover the edges and back with painter's tape to avoid getting glue on the frame. If there are any loose shards, use sandpaper to gently smooth down sharp edges.
Remove any clips or hanging hardware and set the mirror on a flat, protected surface while working on it. Make sure you have adequate room to maneuver and access the cracks from all sides.
Repair Methods by Crack Severity
Minor Chips and Surface Cracks
For hairline cracks less than 2 inches long, super glue or clear nail polish works great. Simply apply a thin layer over the crack using a toothpick. Hold the edges together firmly for 30 seconds as it dries. The glue dries quickly, so reassemble any broken pieces right away. Allow 1-2 hours for the adhesive to cure fully.
Large Surface Cracks
Wide gaps or cracks longer than 3 inches will require a two-part epoxy adhesive formulated for glass. Mix equal amounts of resin and hardener as directed and spread over the cracks using a putty knife or syringe. Use clamps or strong tape to hold the pieces together tightly as the epoxy cures. Allow 24-48 hours for maximum strength.
Deep Fractures Across Mirror
For a shattered mirror or one cracked across the entire surface, specialty windshield repair kits work well. Clean and dry the cracks thoroughly. Inject the adhesive resin deep into the cracks per the kit instructions and smooth with a razor blade. Shine the UV light over the surface to harden the resin. Repeat until the cracks are filled.
An alternate method is to force epoxy putty into the cracks with a putty knife. Smooth putty until level with the glass. Let harden completely before sanding and polishing.
Prevent Future Damage
While most cracked mirrors can be repaired, prevention is always preferable. Follow these tips to keep your mirrors intact for years:
- Handle mirrors gently and avoid bumping them.
- Clean regularly with a soft cloth and glass cleaner.
- Use foam backing instead of clips or hardware.
- Keep mirrors out of direct sunlight.
- Store vertically in a wrap when moving.
In some cases, it's best to have a professional mirror repair person tackle the job. Seek expert help for:
- Cracks spanning the entire mirror
- Mirror broken into shards
- Fractures in hard to reach spots
- Unsure about proper repair techniques
You can fix simple cracked mirrors yourself with the right materials and some ingenuity. Just match the repair method to the type of crack damage. And be sure to take preventive measures so your mirrors stay crack-free for good.