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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.

Never put glass in the garbage disposal. It can damage your disposal or eject shards of glass out of the disposal and cause injury. If you get broken glass in your garbage disposal, turn it off and cut the power from the breaker, use a tool like pliers or tongs to remove the glass, and use a wet-dry vacuum to remove the remaining glass pieces. If you can’t access the disposal safely, call a garbage disposal repair pro.

Whether it's better to repair or replace a broken mirror depends on its size, value, and the extent of the damage. For small, inexpensive mirrors, replacement is often the better choice, as the average repair cost of around $200 can be close to the price of a new one. However, for large mirrors—like those over a bathroom vanity or large floor mirrors—repair is usually more cost-effective. A new large mirror can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, while repairs typically range from $50 to $200. You should also consider the mirror's age and sentimental value. Antique mirrors and family heirlooms are often priceless and irreplaceable, making repair the most sensible or only option.

The methods outlined here are intended for surface scratches—ones that don’t cut into the glass very deeply. For deep scratches, you should consider a more comprehensive glass scratch repair kit. These kits come with abrasives, polishing compounds, and specialized tools designed for removing deep scratches from glass. If you feel uncomfortable tackling a deep scratch on your own, consider calling a local glass repair contractor.