Can Scratches Be Removed from Low-E Glass?

Low-E glass, also known as low-emissivity glass or e-glass, is a high-performance glazing product designed to reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency in modern buildings. While it’s become a go-to solution in commercial and residential projects alike, one common issue still catches many builders and property owners off guard—scratches on Low-E glass.

So, what happens when this advanced glass is scratched? Is it possible to repair it without full replacement? In this article, we explore the function of Low-E coatings, common causes of damage, and whether professional glass polishing services can restore scratched Low-E panels.

What Is Low-E Glass?

Low-E stands for “low emissivity.” It refers to a microscopically thin metallic coating applied to one side of the glass, usually during the manufacturing process. This coating reflects infrared energy (heat) while allowing visible light to pass through, making it ideal for:

  • Improving indoor comfort by reducing heat transfer
  • Lowering HVAC energy costs
  • Minimising UV damage to furnishings
  • Enhancing the thermal performance of double or triple-glazed windows

The coating can be applied as either a hard coat (pyrolytic) or soft coat (sputtered). Hard coats are more durable and suitable for single-pane applications, while soft coats offer better performance but are more fragile—especially when handled during construction or cleaning.

Why Scratches Happen on Low-E Glass

Despite its high-tech benefits, Low-E glass is vulnerable during the construction phase or post-installation cleaning. Some of the most common causes of scratches include:

And because the Low-E coating is typically applied to the **internal surface of double-glazed units** (Surface #2 or #3), any damage on that side presents a major challenge when it comes to repair.

Can You Polish Scratches Out of Low-E Glass?

The short answer: **sometimes, but not always.** It depends on two things—where the scratch is located and whether the **Low-E coating has been damaged**.

1. Scratches on the External Pane

If the scratched side is the outer surface of the glass (and not the coated side), then glass polishing is often a viable solution. At Melbourne Glass Polishing, we regularly restore scratched and scuffed glass panels across Melbourne without removing or replacing the unit. Our 3-step restoration process is safe for most standard and toughened glass types, provided the damage is not on a coated surface.

2. Scratches on the Coated Surface

If the Low-E coating itself is scratched—whether on the inner face of a single-glazed pane or sealed inside a double-glazed unit—polishing is **not recommended**. Attempting to remove scratches from a coated surface can cause visible distortion, remove the coating entirely, or damage the seal of an insulated glass unit (IGU). In these cases, the only safe and compliant option is **replacement of the affected panel**.

3. How Can You Tell Where the Coating Is?

Professionals use tools like a low-E detector or laser pointer to identify the location of the coating within a double-glazed panel. A simple home trick? Hold a lit match or pen torch to the glass. You’ll see multiple reflections—if one appears slightly different in colour or brightness, that’s your coated surface.

Can Low-E Glass Be Resurfaced or Recoated?

Currently, there’s no industry-standard process for reapplying Low-E coatings to damaged or polished glass on-site. While research is ongoing in this area, any product claiming to “recoat” Low-E glass outside of a manufacturing environment should be treated with caution. The most reliable solution remains either professional glass restoration (if the coating is untouched) or full replacement.

What Builders and Property Managers Should Know

Low-E glass is a premium product—and so is its maintenance. Builders, project managers, and commercial property owners should keep the following in mind:

  • Use only soft cloths and approved glass cleaning products during the build
  • Avoid razor blades or metal scrapers unless absolutely necessary
  • Install signage warning trades about Low-E coatings
  • Engage a specialist glass polisher before assuming replacement is required

At Melbourne Glass Polishing, we offer AS 4667-compliant restoration across all commercial sectors—from curtain walls and balustrades to retail glazing and lobbies. If your glass isn’t coated or the coating is intact, we can likely help.

Conclusion: Scratches on Low-E Glass Need Specialist Advice

While Low-E glass offers undeniable benefits in terms of energy efficiency and performance, it requires a higher level of care—especially during construction and cleaning. Once scratched, the feasibility of repair depends on where the coating is and how deep the damage goes.

If the coating isn’t affected, glass polishing is often the smarter, faster, and more sustainable option compared to full replacement. But if the Low-E surface itself is damaged, replacement may be unavoidable.

Need help assessing scratched or vandalised Low-E panels? Get in touch with Melbourne Glass Polishing. Simply send us a few photos, and our team will let you know whether restoration is possible—or if replacement is the safest route. We’ve worked with Melbourne’s top builders and commercial property teams, and we’re happy to offer advice before you commit to expensive re-glazing.

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