It’s surprising how often storefront glass is damaged. Although it’s essential for beauty, safety, and security, many things cause damage to this crucial feature, from unexpected impacts to bad weather. Understanding these common causes will help you keep your storefront looking its best and avoid costly storefront glass repairs.
This article will explore why storefront glass gets damaged and share valuable tips on preventing issues. This will lead to fewer refurbishments and prolong the life of your glass windows and doors. Let’s dive in!
1. Impact from objects
This can happen in various ways, like when someone accidentally throws a ball and hits the glass or a heavy object is knocked over and crashes into a window. Sometimes, even severe weather can fling debris at your storefront, causing cracks or breakage.
To help prevent this type of damage, there are a few steps you can take:
Install protective barriers
Place bollards or planter boxes in front of the glass to stop vehicles or heavy items from coming into direct contact with your windows or doors.
Use safety film
Applying a safety film to the glass surface will help hold the pieces of glass together if broken. It won’t stop the impact but will minimize the damage.
Choose stronger glass
Opt for tempered glass or laminated glass, which are tougher and more resistant to impacts. Although they can still break, the way they shatter is less dangerous.
Remember, while you can’t prevent every accident, these steps can greatly reduce the risk of storefront glass damage from impacts.
2. Weather-related damage
Weather conditions are tough on storefront glass. Here’s what you need to know about how weather-related damage occurs and what steps you can take to prevent it:
Temperature changes
Sudden changes in temperature, especially extreme cold or heat, can cause the glass to expand or contract and lead to cracks or breakage.
Strong winds
High winds throw debris against the glass, causing scratches or breaks. Over time, even minor damage will weaken the glass and make it more prone to larger cracks.
Hailstorms
Hail can crack or completely shatter glass doors and windows.
Prevention tips:
- Tempered glass: Ensure your storefront has tempered glass, which is stronger and less likely to get damaged.
- Window film: Apply the protective film to glass surfaces for added resistance against breaks and scratches.
- Regular maintenance: Inspecting and maintaining seals and frames can help prevent water damage that might weaken the glass.
- Shading: Use awnings or shades to regulate temperature changes and protect against direct sunlight.
- Emergency board-up: Have a plan for quick action to board up glass in anticipation of strong storms.
By understanding these weather-related causes and applying these preventative measures, you’ll help protect your storefront glass from damage.
3. Improper installation
Improper installation is a big reason storefront glass might be damaged. When glass is not installed correctly, it can lead to problems that make the glass break or crack more easily.
Firstly, if the team putting in the glass doesn’t do it with care, the glass could be weak from the start. The frames might not hold the glass tight, or they might even push too hard on the glass, which could make it break.
Secondly, if the glass is not the right size for the spot where it’s going, or if it’s not set in straight, stress can build up in the glass. Over time, this stress can crack or even break the glass.
Also, if the people installing the glass don’t use the right tools or materials, like using the wrong kind of sealant, the glass won’t be safe. Water could get in and weaken the seal or frame, and then the glass could get loose and break more easily.
To keep your store’s glass safe, choose a trusted business to install it. Make sure they use the right glass and tools and take their time to do the job right.
4. Wear and tear over time
Like your favorite pair of shoes, storefront glass will wear out over time from wear and tear. Every day, the glass faces the sun, the rain, and the wind, which might make tiny scratches or chips on the surface. Also, the glass gets cleaned a lot, and sometimes, the cleaning products or tools used are rough on it.
Over time, these little marks lead to bigger problems. If it gets bad enough, you might even need a storefront glass repair.
Keeping an eye on your glass will help. If you see signs of aging, like small cracks or scratches, getting them fixed quickly is smart. A little fix now may save you from big repairs later.
5. Inadequate maintenance
Inadequate maintenance is a significant cause of storefront glass damage. Over time, dirt and debris build up on glass surfaces. This might not seem like a big problem, but it can lead to scratches and weaken the glass, making it more likely to break.
Storefronts face all sorts of weather, from the hot sun to the freezing cold. If we don’t take care of the glass, small chips or cracks can grow larger because of the temperature changes.
Here’s a short list of things to do for better glass maintenance:
- Clean the glass regularly to remove dirt and debris.
- Inspect the glass often for any signs of damage like chips or cracks.
- Fix small problems quickly before they turn into big ones.
Remember, taking care of your storefront glass helps to keep it looking good and staying strong. If you see something wrong, search for “storefront glass repair near me” to find a pro who can help. They might suggest special treatments to protect the glass even more. But the most important thing is to keep an eye on the glass and to clean and check it often.
6. Poor-quality glass or materials
When you’re setting up your store, choosing the right glass for your storefront is a big deal. Not all glass is the same, and poor-quality glass or materials lead to damage more easily. Here’s why that matters:
First off, let’s talk about the glass itself. There are different types, like tempered glass, laminated glass, and annealed glass. Tempered glass is really strong. If it does break, it crumbles into tiny pieces that are less likely to hurt someone.
Laminated glass has a special layer in it that holds the glass together if it breaks. Annealed glass isn’t as tough and can break into dangerous shards.
Next are the materials that hold your glass in place. If these aren’t up to snuff, your glass may not be as secure as you think — which could mean trouble!
To prevent problems, choose good-quality glass and materials. It might cost a bit more, but it’s worth it to keep your storefront looking great and staying safe.
Storefront glass from Murray Glass
Ready to protect and enhance your storefront? Choose Murray Glass for top-quality glass solutions tailored to your business needs. Whether you’re looking to install new, durable storefront glass or need expert repairs, Murray Glass is here to help.
Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with the best products and services to ensure your storefront remains impeccable and secure. Don’t wait for the damage to escalate; call Murray Glass today and let us take care of all your glass installation and repair needs.
