Does Tempered Glass Scratch? A Comprehensive Answer

Tempered glass, a type of safety glass, is super strong and safer than regular glass because it’s been specially heat-treated. This means if it ever breaks, it crumbles into little, dull pieces instead of those dangerous sharp shards. But even with all its benefits, you might wonder: does tempered glass scratch?

Read this article by Chicago tempered glass manufacturers for a full answer.

Can Tempered Glass Scratch?

The short answer is yes, but there’s more to it. While it’s possible to scratch tempered glass, it’s not as easy as you might think. It really depends on how it was made and how you take care of it.

Does Tempered Glass Scratch Easily?

High-quality tempered glass, when the project is properly manufactured, is pretty tough! It should handle your everyday cleaning routine with a soft cloth and window cleaner without a problem. But even though it’s resistant, it’s not invincible – deeper scratches can happen in some situations.

What Scratches Tempered Glass?

Here are some potential culprits for scratched tempered glass:

1. Low-Quality Tempering

Not every glassmaker follows the same quality standards. Sometimes, the way the glass is tempered isn’t perfect, and that can make it easier to scratch.

2. Tiny Bits of Debris

When the glass is being cut and made into shape, teeny pieces of metal or other stuff might get stuck in the surface. These can act like sandpaper and cause scratches when you’re cleaning or if something rubs against it.

3. Sharp Objects

While tempered glass can handle most everyday things, sharp objects like razor blades or harsh cleaning tools can definitely scratch the surface.

Don't Let Scratches Spoil Your View

Choose high-quality tempered glass.

*We serve the Illinois and Milwaukee areas.

Get a Free Quote

or Call Us(847) 557-9600

Can Plastic Scratch Glass?

Softer plastics, like those used in some cleaning cloths, are usually gentle on tempered glass. But beware of hard plastics or those with little bits of grit in them – they could cause some scratches. We recommend using a soft, clean microfiber cloth to keep your glass looking its best.

Can Wood Scratch Glass?

Generally, wood is softer than glass, so it won’t scratch it under normal conditions. However, if the wood has tiny bits of dirt or debris stuck in it, those could potentially cause scratches on the surface.

Can Metal Scratch Glass?

Most metals are tougher than glass, so they can definitely scratch tempered glass. That’s why it’s important to be careful and avoid contact with metal objects when you’re cleaning or installing your glass.

Types of Glass in Terms of Scratching

Laminated glass, another type of safety glass, offers similar scratch resistance to tempered glass. However, due to its construction with a thin plastic layer in the middle, laminated glass might be slightly more susceptible to scratches on the plastic interlayer if not cleaned properly.

Standard annealed glass offers the least scratch resistance.

Here’s a quick comparison of some common types:

How to Remove Scratches from Tempered Glass

If your tempered glass has a deep scratch, we won’t sugarcoat it – it’s probably there to stay. However, if the scratch is minor, a professional glass polishing service might be able to work some magic and buff it out.

How to Protect Tempered Glass from Scratching?

The good news is that it’s easy to keep your tempered glass looking its best and prevent those pesky scratches. Just follow these simple tips:

• Use the right cleaning materials: Grab a soft microfiber cloth and a streak-free window cleaner made for glass.
• Avoid abrasive cleaners: Never use harsh chemicals, scouring pads, or abrasive cloths on tempered glass surfaces.
• Handle with care: Whether you’re installing or cleaning, handle your tempered glass gently and keep it away from sharp objects and debris.
• Regular cleaning: Make cleaning a habit to remove dust and dirt, which can cause tiny scratches over time.

Keeping Your Glass Beautiful and Safe

Tempered glass is an amazing choice for shower enclosures, windows, tabletops, display cases, and so much more. It’s both beautiful and safe! By understanding how it resists scratches and following these easy tips, you can enjoy your tempered glass for many years to come.