Since it's shatter-resistant, Plexiglass is a common material used on headlights and vehicles.It can easily be damaged.If you have deep scratches in your plexiglass, you may have to use a tool to remove them.If you need to get rid of surface-level scratches, you can use a heat gun or a commercial product.When you're done, your plexiglass will look brand new.
Step 1: The piece of sandpaper was wet.
Under warm water, run a piece of 800-grit sandpaper.If you have excess water on the piece, wring it out so it doesn't rain.If you have a work station near a sink, you can re-wet the sandpaper whenever you need to.If you have a deep scratch on your plexiglass, start with 600-grit sandpaper.
Step 2: For one minute, sand over the scratch.
Light pressure can be applied to the scratches.To buff the surface, work in small, circular movements.When the sandpaper feels dry, wet it again and sand any areas that have been scratched.When you finish, your piece of plexiglass will not look like it has been frosted over.
Step 3: For the next 2 minutes, alternate between a dry and wet piece of paper.
Go over the same areas with a dry piece of 800-grit sandpaper.The scratch needs to be worked in small circles.After about 30 seconds, use wet sandpaper.For the next 2 minutes, change the sandpaper you're using every 30 seconds.It helps work through the scratches faster by alternating between wet and dry sandpaper.
Step 4: Work with wet and dry 1200-grit sandpaper.
The 1200-grit sandpaper will help smooth your plexiglass even more.Start with a wet piece and then switch to a dry piece.You can buff the plexiglass by alternating between wet and dry sandpaper.
Step 5: A thin layer of plexiglass polish should be applied to the area.
When you're done buffing it, the area will look cloudy.Apply a coin-sized amount of plexiglass polish onto a clean cloth and work it into the glass in small circular motions.If you want the polish to turn clear on your surface, keep buffing it for 30 seconds.To remove the scratches, wipe the polish off with a dry cloth.plexiglass polish can be purchased from your hardware store.Plexiglass polish can be found in stores.
Step 6: Wet a cloth with warm water.
Cotton or microfiber are soft materials that can be used for a cleaning cloth.Run the cloth under the water.Make sure the cloth isn't dripping wet when you use it.If you use a cloth that has an abrasive side, it will add more scratches to your plexiglass.
Step 7: Put a small amount of scratch remover on your rag.
Novus or Turtle Wax can be used to buff out light scratches on your plexiglass.Rub the dime-sized amount onto the cloth to spread it.If you need to remove multiple scratches, use a quarter-sized amount.Hardware and big box stores have scratch removal products.If you want, you can apply the scratch remover directly on the plexiglass.
Step 8: For 30 seconds, rub the remover into the scratch with your cloth.
To remove the scratch from the cloth, move it in small circular motions.To blend the scratch in with the rest of the plexiglass, coat it as much as you can.If you have to, keep buffing it for at least 30 seconds.
Step 9: Clean the plexiglass with a dry cloth.
When you're done cleaning the plexiglass, use a lint-free cloth to wipe any excess off.Work on the surface of your plexiglass.You won't be able to see scratches anymore once the scratch removal is complete.If there are scratches on your plexiglass, hold it up to a light.If there is still a chance, buff on another coat of scratch remover.
Step 10: The lowest setting is where your heat gun should be.
Look for the buttons or dial on the side of your heat gun to control the temperature.To set it to the lowest heat setting, press the arrow buttons or turn the dial.You can buy heat guns at your hardware store.When a heat gun is turned on, it will start on the lowest heat setting.
Step 11: The heat gun can be held from the plexiglass and turned on.
You can easily reach the scratch with your heat gun if you position the plexiglass.The heat gun's nozzle should be at least 2 inches from the plexiglass.Press the power button when you're ready to start the machine.The heat gun will make the plexiglass very warm, so make sure it's sitting on a heat-safe surface.
Step 12: Continue working across the scratch until it disappears.
You don't want the plexiglass to melt or bubble if you keep the heat gun moving over the scratch.Use small strokes to cover the entire scratch.To hit the scratch from all sides, adjust the angle of the heat gun.Light scratches will start to go away after about 30 seconds of heating.It's not possible to use a heat gun on deep scratches.