Repair Broken Plastic Sunglasses/Eyeglasses Frames at Home: A Comprehensive Guide

Dealing with broken eyeglasses can be frustrating, especially when you need to find a solution quickly. While some repairs are indeed possible to perform at home, there are specific steps and precautions you need to follow to ensure the best outcome. This guide will walk you through the process of repairing broken plastic frames, providing you with detailed instructions and tips to help you get the job done safely and effectively.

Understanding the Problem

The first step is to understand what type of break you are dealing with. Plastic frames, while durable, do not easily adhere to adhesive substances, making simple repairs challenging. Most eyeglasses have hinges, arms, and lenses which can fail, requiring different approaches to repair.

DIY Repair Steps

Depending on the location of the break, you can either try to align and make the frame functional (if the damage is minor) or focus on ensuring the frame looks decent (if the damage is more extensive).

Part 1: Aligning the Frame

To align the frame, follow these steps:

Examine the frame thoroughly to determine the exact issue. Identify whether the hinge, arm, or lens is damaged.

For minor damages on acetate frames, like a detached temple or arm piece, you might be able to fix it with a replacement screw. Gather a small screwdriver and a replacement screw.

If the damage is to the plastic around the lenses or the temple, adhesive solutions are not recommended as they can damage the lenses. In such cases, consider using sticky tape as a temporary solution.

If the hinge is broken, this is a more complex repair, especially for beginners. Ensure the repair is perfectly aligned before the epoxy dries.

For detached pieces, use cocktail sticks and sticky tape to keep them in place until you can visit your optometrist or eyeglass professional.

For more permanent repairs, dental technicians sometimes use methyl methacrylate, though this is not recommended for DIY repairs due to the risks involved.

Part 2: Using Adhesives Wisely

If you do decide to use adhesives, such as super glue or epoxy, proceed with extreme caution. Super glue can work on some breaks, but it’s crucial to avoid getting any on the lenses as it can cause irreversible damage.

Test the adhesive on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t spread or affect the glasses in any unintended way.

Apply a thin, controlled layer of the adhesive to the broken area, and gently press the pieces together.

Let the adhesive dry completely, then test the frame to ensure it is securely in place.

Finally, avoid using the eyeglasses for a while to ensure the adhesive is fully dry and the repair is stable.

Precautions and Tips

Remember, the success of any repair is highly dependent on your skill and attention to detail. Here are some additional tips:

Always wear gloves when handling adhesives to prevent any residue on the glasses.

Keep your workspace clean and free from dust and debris, as these can affect the adhesive’s effectiveness.

If the repair still doesn’t meet your satisfaction, consider seeking assistance from an optician or optometrist who has the experience to handle more complex repairs.

Some stubborn repairs might require professional assistance, and it’s better to invest a little more to avoid further damage.

Conclusion

Repairing broken plastic eyeglasses frames at home is possible but requires careful consideration of the type of break and the appropriate tools and adhesives. With the right approach, you can extend the life of your eyeglasses and avoid the cost of replacement. However, if the damage is severe or you are unsure of how to proceed, seeking professional help is always the best option.