How to Re-Silver a Mirror

A mirror missing its silver does not reflect properly.

Mirrors have a back covering of silver that creates the reflecting effect. As mirrors age, the silver may begin to decay, causing black spots or streaks on the front of the mirror. Re-silvering is a very difficult process and is not a do-it-yourself job. Actual silver must be applied to the back of the mirror, not silver paint. Etchings on the back of the mirror to create effect and scratches on the mirror makes re-silvering difficult. Keep a few things in mind to get the best re-silvering service.

Instructions

1. Locate a mirror re-silvering service through a search engine or your yellow pages. Price around to get the best quote. Only consider re-silvering the mirror if it is an antique. Some re-silvering services cost more than a new mirror.

2. Clean the surface of the mirror before delivering it to the re-silvering shop. Look for damage on the mirror before delivery and write down where it appears. This helps you ensure that there is no damage at the shop.

3. Ask the re-silvering services whether the frame of the mirror needs removal before delivery. Many services only want the glass. Cover the mirror with a piece of cardboard or something stiff while prying it out of the frame to prevent breakage.

4. Ship the mirror in an insulated package and insure it, especially if it is an antique.

References

• Our House: Resilvering Mirrors
• Bear Glass: Resilvering
• This Old House: Resilvering a Mirror