Common Issues with Sunglasses Frames and How to Fix Them

Sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays while adding a stylish touch to your look. However, like any other eyewear, they can develop issues over time due to daily use, accidental drops, or improper storage. Whether it's loose screws, bent frames, or broken hinges, understanding common sunglasses problems and their solutions can save you time and money on professional sunglasses repair .

1. Loose Screws

Why It Happens?

Sunglasses frames have small screws that hold the temples and lenses in place. Over time, these screws may loosen due to frequent opening and closing of the arms or from daily wear and tear.

How to Fix It?

• Use a small screwdriver (often found in an eyeglass repair kit) to tighten the loose screws gently.
• If a screw is missing, you can purchase replacement screws from an optical store or online.
• To prevent the screws from loosening again, apply a tiny drop of clear nail polish or thread locker on the screw before tightening it.

2. Bent Frames

Why It Happens?

Sitting on your sunglasses, dropping them, or keeping them in tight spaces can cause the frames to bend out of shape.

How to Fix It?

For Metal Frames:

• Use your fingers to bend the frame back into shape gently.
• If the metal is too stiff, warm it slightly with a hairdryer for a few seconds to make it more flexible.
• Avoid excessive force, as metal can break if over-bent.

For Plastic Frames:

• Run warm (not boiling) water over the frames for 30 seconds to soften the plastic.
• Carefully bend the frame back to its original shape.
• Hold the frame in place for a few seconds while it cools down and hardens.

3. Broken Hinges

Why It Happens?

Hinges allow the arms of the sunglasses to fold. The arms may not open or close properly if they become loose, misaligned, or broken.

How to Fix It?

• If the hinge is loose, tighten the screws with a precision screwdriver.
• If the hinge is broken, you can use a small amount of super glue as a temporary fix. However, professional repair is recommended for a long-lasting solution.
• Some sunglasses come with spring hinges, which require expert attention if they break.

4. Missing or Worn-Out Nose Pads

Why It Happens?

Nose pads provide comfort and keep sunglasses from slipping down your nose. Over time, they may wear out, break, or fall off.

How to Fix It?

• Purchase replacement nose pads from an optical shop or online.
• Use a small screwdriver to remove the old nose pads and install the new ones.
• If your sunglasses have push-in nose pads, pop out the old ones and push in the replacements.

5. Scratched Lenses

Why It Happens?

Sunglasse lenses can get scratched due to improper storage, cleaning with rough materials, or accidental drops.

How to Fix It?

• Use a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner to remove minor scratches.
• Apply a small amount of toothpaste or baking soda mixed with water for deeper scratches. Gently rub it in circular motions, then rinse and dry.
• If the scratches are too deep, consider replacing the lenses or seeking professional repair services.

6. Arms That Won't Stay Open or Closed

Why It Happens?

The arms of sunglasses may become too loose or too tight due to worn-out hinges or screws.

How to Fix It?

• If the arms are too loose, tighten the hinge screws with a screwdriver.
• If the arms are too tight, slightly loosen the screws.
• If adjusting the screws doesn't help, the internal spring mechanism may need replacement, which a professional best handles.

7. Frame Discoloration

Why It Happens?

Exposure to sunlight, sweat, and skin oils can cause plastic or metal frames to fade or change color.

How to Fix It?

• Clean the frames regularly with mild soap and water.
• Apply a small amount of baby oil or petroleum jelly to plastic frames to restore shine.• For metal frames, use a polishing cloth to remove tarnish.
• If the discolouration is severe, consider repainting the frames or replacing them.

8. Lenses Popping Out

Why It Happens?

Lenses may pop out if the frame becomes loose or the lens clips wear out.

How to Fix It

• For plastic frames, gently push the lens back into place while applying slight pressure on the frame.
• For metal frames, use a screwdriver to tighten the screws holding the lenses.
• If the lens does not stay in place, you may need to replace or adjust the frame.

9. Frames Becoming Too Loose or Tight

Why It Happens?

If your sunglasses feel too tight or loose, it could be due to the temples losing shape or changes in frame tension.

How to Fix It?

• For metal frames, carefully bend the temples inward (for a tighter fit) or outward (for a looser fit) using your hands.
• Warm plastic frames slightly with a hairdryer and adjust the fit.
• If the fit is still uncomfortable, visit an optician for professional adjustments.

10. Peeling or Chipped Frame Coating

Why It Happens?

Over time, the protective coating on sunglasses frames can start to peel or chip due to exposure to moisture, sweat, or improper cleaning methods.

How to Fix It?

• Lightly sand the affected area with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out the peeling sections.
• Use nail polish or acrylic paint that matches the frame colour to touch up the damaged area.
• If the damage is extensive, consider professional refinishing services.

Conclusion

Sunglass frames can experience various issues, but many are fixable with simple DIY methods. Keeping a basic repair kit handy, storing your sunglasses in a protective case, and handling them carefully can prevent common problems. If a fix seems too complex, seeking professional sunglasses repair services is always a good option to extend the life of your favourite pair. Following these tips, you can keep your sunglasses in top condition and enjoy them for years.