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Yes, it is possible to repair a damaged or cracked mirror, but whether you should do it yourself depends on the extent of the damage. For minor issues like small chips, cracks, and scratches, you can use a DIY approach. Resin-based repair kits can fix minor cracks, while scratches can often be removed with metal polish, nail polish, baking soda, or a glass polisher. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

However, for more significant damage, DIY repair is not recommended. Repairing and resilvering mirrors is a delicate process that can involve caustic chemicals and requires a high level of precision. The materials for a DIY attempt can cost over $100, which may not be a significant saving compared to hiring a professional. Since a failed attempt could result in more damage and higher repair costs, it is often better to hire a mirror repair expert from the start, especially for large, valuable, or extensively damaged mirrors.

The average mirror has a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. After that, the coating begins to deteriorate, losing its reflective properties. Acrylic mirrors have a slightly shorter lifespan of seven to 10 years. Higher-quality acrylic sheets with UV-resistant properties have lifespans similar to those of your average mirror. By maintaining your mirrors and keeping them out of direct sunlight when not in use, you can extend their lifespan. Some mirrors can last for decades.

Getting a streak-free shine after cleaning your windows requires both the right cleaning solutions—which can either include warm water and dish soap or warm water and rubbing alcohol—and the right tools—namely, a squeegee and a microfiber cloth. To make your streak-free glass cleaner, combine one gallon of warm water with a few drops of dish soap, and mix. Apply with a sprayer or sponge, and then dry with a squeegee, microfiber cloth, or old black-and-white newspaper pages.

In terms of initial material and installation, glass stair railings are costlier than railings made from materials like wood, metal, or cable. Whether they are worth the investment often comes down to personal preference. Glass railings can offer a high return on investment, both in monetary value when it's time to sell and in the bold styling and functionality they add to a home. They provide a high level of safety, see-through functionality, and a unique appearance that other materials cannot replicate. From a maintenance perspective, glass railings require little to stay in working order but do need frequent cleaning to look their best.