Expert: Kent Lauer - 6/25/2009

Question
My heavy 72x48 3/8" thick beveled table top has been moved many, many times without damage but today I somehow managed to drop something right on the edge and chip off a very small piece, approximately 5/16 x 1/16, and hope that I can do something to smooth the rough edges of the chip or fill in to repair. There are also some minor scratches on the surface after years of use. I can't afford the cost to replace this glass.  What would you suggest?

Answer
   Hi Elizabeth,
      I apologize for the delay in getting back to you. I was away teaching classes and have just returned. If the chipped edge is sharp enough to be dangerous, get some rather fine sandpaper, 400 or 600 grit, wet it a little and just sand over the sharp edges. Be careful not to let the sandpaper touch any other place than where you want it to, or you will add to the scratches on the surface of your table. Another option would be to glue the chipped piece back in place, but only if it fits perfectly. This would involve some Ultraviolet adhesive and an UV light too, which are kind of pricey. As far as the other scratches, there really isn't to much you can do, to fix the scratches would cost much more than the table top is worth. I think just sanding the damaged area is your best bet. Hope this helps a little.
   Best regards,
        Kent

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