Scratches on a oceanic glass tank

Question
QUESTION: I just bought a 215 reef ready tank, and I notice some surface scratches on the front (inside) of the tank. Is there any thing you recommend for me to use to try to get rid of them. I was hoping because they are not deep they could be buffed. What do you think?


ANSWER: Hello Heather,

IF the tank is empty, it is possible to buff out scratches of glass.

It isn't easy by hand, (dare i say next to impossible), but with buffing tools and rubbing and polishing compounds it can be done.
I guess the question would be, how bad are the scratches, can you live with them, and if you do buff them out, and have a rock slide, (probably where the scratches came from in the first place), would you start over again?

I have a glass tank, (never would own an acrylic for this reason) and have several scratches that only i know about, and live with.


BTW: if you have 'starfire' or low iron glass, it will scratch easy.  So, be careful when cleaning or having folks over, with rings or keys in their hands...


good luck, and let us know how things work out for you.




Mr. Bill

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Do you think the rubbing compound will hurt my saltwater reef tank once I fill it? ( the tank is currently empty)

Answer
WOW, (the website/webpage locked up on me twice after i tried to send you the reply.  Sorry if it did get sent or posted repeatedly)


Heather,

You raise a good question, and unfortunately, i did not think of that potential for contamination, and therefore can not give you an answer with any certainty.

I would do it, (use some type of rubbing compound), but read the label first and wash/rinse the glass well after.

BUT, since that effort would be a true 'guess, without true knowledge', i  can not make that reccomendation to you or anyone else.


Please let us know what you find out or end up doing,


Good Luck,


Mr. Bill