Advice on re-silvering mirrors?

Phyllis
by Phyllis
I have a collection of antique mirrors many of which have the silver flaking off the back. Anyone know how I can repair them with out having them professionally done?

  5 answers
  • William William on Sep 03, 2017

    You would need to strip the paint and silvering. Then use Rust-Oleum Mirror finish on the back of the mirrors and flat black paint over that.

    • P Dietel P Dietel on Sep 03, 2017

      Flat black as the final coat is something I hadn't thought of but will be doing. Thanks for the help!!!!!!


  • Emily Emily on Sep 03, 2017

    I didn't know about Rust Oleum Mirror finish but that sounds better than what I was going to suggest which is to just replace the mirror in the frame. I think it is tedious to remove the silvering.


  • Charly Charly on Sep 04, 2017

    Unless you are going to use these mirrors everyday, leave them alone. If they are truly antiques, refurbishing them could decrease their value. If they are just going to be used as decoration, their flaws only add to their charm and value.


  • Carole Carole on Sep 04, 2017

    I am with you and just embrace the flaws.

  • Sharon Sharon on Sep 05, 2017

    Mirror re-silvering..... http://angelgilding.com

    But I agree, too perfect mirroring would make them loose their antique charm.

    You might consider the Mercury Glass look on Rustoleum, see the video on here... http://www.rustoleum.com/product-catalog/consumer-brands/specialty/mirror-effect