Broken sunglass lenses can be a real drag. They’re often uncomfortable to wear or entirely unusable, and they can also have a negative effect on one’s vision and overall eye health. So, if you’ve got broken sunglass lenses, how can you get them repaired?
Broken sunglass lenses can usually be repaired by the manufacturer, an optical shop, or an online repair service. New lenses typically cost between $30 and $150 per lens. Make sure the new lenses are compatible with your frames to avoid discomfort, distortion, and/or eye strain.
Ultimately, the best option will depend on the severity of the damage, your budget, and your personal preferences. Let’s take a closer look at the various ways you can handle a pair of broken sunglasses.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Sunglass Lenses?
The expense associated with replacing sunglass lenses varies depending on several factors, including the brand, lens type, and replacement location.
Getting higher-end lenses replaced is generally going to cost more than replacing lenses from a cheaper pair of sunglasses.
Sunglasses are also available with different lens types, including polarized, mirrored, photochromic, and tinted lenses. The cost of replacing polarized and photochromic lenses is generally higher than that of tinted lenses.
For individuals with prescription lenses, the cost of lens replacement will depend on the specific prescription, with higher prescriptions typically requiring thicker lenses, which can increase the cost. In addition, special coatings, such as a scratch-resistant or anti-glare coating, may increase the cost of replacing lenses.
Replacement costs may also vary depending on where the lenses are replaced, whether from an optical shop, online retailer, or the sunglasses’ manufacturer. As a general guideline, replacing sunglass lenses can cost between $30 and $150 or more per lens, including the cost of the lens and installation fees.
Therefore, when considering replacing sunglass lenses, comparing prices from different retailers is advisable to get the best deal. Although the cheapest option may be appealing, it is crucial to prioritize quality and ensure that the lenses provide adequate eye protection.
In addition, individuals with sunglasses that are still under warranty should check with the manufacturer to see if they offer free or discounted lens replacements.
Where Should You Get Your Sunglasses Repaired?
If you need repairs for your sunglasses, there are several options available. It’s important to carefully consider your options to ensure that you receive high-quality and cost-effective repair services.
If your sunglasses are still under warranty, the manufacturer may offer repair services that will be free or discounted. Make sure to review the warranty terms and conditions to understand which repairs are covered and whether you need to provide proof of purchase in order to take advantage of the warranty.
Optical shops can provide repair services, such as replacing broken parts or fixing scratches or other damage to the lenses. When choosing an optical shop, it’s important to ensure that they have experience repairing sunglasses and to request a price quote before agreeing to any repairs.
Online repair services are also available. They typically require you to send in your sunglasses for repair, and they’ll return the sunglasses once the repairs are complete.
When selecting an online repair service, it’s especially important to verify that they are reputable and have positive reviews from previous customers. Additionally, consider the shipping costs and turnaround time for the repairs.
Can You Replace Sunglass Lenses Yourself?
In theory, it’s possible to replace sunglass lenses on your own. However, it can be challenging and risky, particularly if you have no prior experience doing such repairs.
There are several factors to consider before attempting to replace the lenses yourself:
Compatibility
Compatibility is crucial since sunglasses come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. Before you proceed, you need to be absolutely certain the replacement lenses you’re using are compatible with your sunglasses.
If the lenses are even slightly too big or too small, they may not fit correctly, which could compromise the structural integrity of the glasses.
The Right Tools
Replacing sunglass lenses can require specialized tools, such as a heat gun or a lens cutter. Replacing the lenses without the proper tools could be challenging — or even impossible, in some cases.
The tools you’ll need will depend largely on how severe the issue is and your specific pair of sunglasses.
Warranty
If your sunglasses are still under warranty, attempting to replace the lenses yourself could void the warranty. In this case, it’s advisable to send your glasses in for repair in order to maintain the benefits that come with the warranty.
How to Replace the Lenses
If you’re still determined to replace your sunglass lenses yourself, follow these steps::
- Remove the old lenses: This can be done by gently popping them out of the frames. Some sunglasses have screws or other fasteners that must be removed first. A glasses repair kit (on Amazon) may be necessary for this step.
- Measure the lenses: Measure the old lenses to determine the size and shape of the replacement lenses you need.
- Order replacement lenses: Replacement lenses can be ordered from online retailers, optical shops, or directly from the manufacturer.
- Install the new lenses: This is typically done by inserting them into the frames and securing them.
It’s important to note that replacing sunglass lenses yourself can be a challenging and potentially risky process.
If you’re not confident in your ability to do it, it’s best to take your sunglasses to a professional for repair. A professional repair service will have the tools and expertise to ensure a proper and safe repair.
What To Do If You Can’t Find A Matching Lens
If you can’t find a matching lens for your sunglasses, there are a few things you can do to address the issue:
Contact the Manufacturer
If your sunglasses are still under warranty, or if the manufacturer offers replacement lenses, contact them directly to see if they can provide a matching lens. Even if your sunglasses are out of warranty, the manufacturer may offer repair services to help you get a matching lens (at a price).
Contact an Optical Shop
Optical shops can create a custom lens for your sunglasses that matches the existing lens. They may also help you find a replacement lens that’s similar in color and style, even if it’s not an exact match.
Consider Replacing Both Lenses
If you can’t find a matching lens, consider replacing both lenses with a new set that matches. This option can be more expensive than replacing just one lens, but it’ll also ensure that your sunglasses are properly balanced and provide consistent protection.
Look for a Close Match
If you can’t find an exact match for your lens, look for a replacement lens that is as close in color, size, and shape as possible. That can minimize the difference between the old and new lenses and make the mismatch less apparent.
It’s important to note that sunglasses with mismatched lenses can cause discomfort, distortion, and even eye strain. So it’s best to address the issue as soon as possible to ensure proper vision and eye protection.