Fixing scratches on lenses can be both a lengthy and costly process. The length of time it takes to repair the lenses can vary greatly, depending on the severity of the scratches. The whole process can take from a few minutes to a few hours in general.
The first step in replacing scratched lenses is to determine the severity of the accident. If the scratches are small, only impacting the top layer of the lens, they can usually be removed with a mild abrasive scuffling. If the scratches are deep and penetrate the lens film, more extensive repair procedures may be required.
Once the severity of the scratches has been determined, the repair process can begin. If the scratches are small, a mild abrasive such as baking soda can be used to buff the scratches out. This should be carried out in a gentle circular motion, and the area should be thoroughly sanitized with water to remove any abrasive particles.
If the scratches are larger, a specialized lens repair kit may be required. These kits usually contain a buffing wheel and a variety of abrasive substances. To apply the abrasive compound to the lenses, the buffing wheel can be used. This process should be carried out slowly and cautiously, as the buffing wheel can cause more harm if used too quickly.
If neither of these techniques is efficient, the lenses may need to be changed professionally. This procedure can be costly, so it’s important to consider the replacement lenses’ expense against the repair’s cost.
In general, repairs scratches on lenses can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the severity of the scratches. If the scratch is small, a light abrasive can be used to buff out the damage. For deeper scratches, a specialized lens repair kit may be needed, and in some situations, the lenses may have to be replaced.