How to Repair an Aquarium Acrylic Scratch

Acrylic aquariums are favored over glass aquariums because of their light weight, interesting molded shapes and strength. One of only a few drawbacks to these acrylic tanks is how easily they are scratched. According to The First Tank Guide, an acrylic tank can be scratched by clothing, jewelry or handbags as persons pass by it, or even by the inhabitants' teeth, claws or shells on the inside. However, scratches, even deep ones, are easily restored to like-new condition with a little time and attention to detail.

Things You'll Need

  • Sandpaper (400 and 600 wet/dry)
  • Drill
  • Buffer wheel
  • Plastic buffing compound
  • Acrylic polish
  • Microfiber rags
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sand the scratch using 400 wet/dry sandpaper. Use light, circular strokes over the scratch.

    • 2

      Use a 600 wet/dry sandpaper over the scratch. Continue with light strokes, moving back and forth over the scratch, which should now be very faint.

    • 3

      Apply a plastic buffing compound to the scratch. This can be purchased at any hardware store. Many places that sell fish tanks and supplies will also carry it.

    • 4

      Attach the buffer wheel to your hand drill, and buff the compound into the scratch. Continue using a light touch to avoid burning the compound into the acrylic.

    • 5

      Polish the tank using an acrylic polish and microfiber or other very soft rag. Polishing should restore the look of the tank to new.