Keeping your commercial building in top condition matters for appearance and performance. From storefronts to office windows, the quality of your glass plays a major role in energy efficiency, safety, and the impression your business makes.
Over time, glass may become damaged, outdated, or less effective, making commercial glass replacement a necessary investment rather than merely a cosmetic upgrade.
In this blog, we’ll help you identify the key signs that it’s time for a commercial glass replacement, such as cracks, fogging, or rising energy costs.
We’ll also walk you through the steps to take once you’re ready to move forward, so you can ensure a smooth, efficient replacement process that enhances your property’s functionality and appeal.
The signs to watch for
When it comes to your commercial building, the condition of your glass isn’t only about appearance. It directly affects energy efficiency, safety, comfort, and even building code compliance. Here are some key signs that your building may be due for commercial glass repair or replacement.
- Visible cracks or chips
While visible cracks or chips might seem like minor cosmetic flaws, these imperfections quickly worsen, compromising the glass’s structural integrity. In a high-traffic or customer-facing commercial setting, damaged glass can leave a poor impression on clients or tenants and pose a safety risk.
- Foggy or clouded windows
If your windows appear foggy or permanently cloudy, it’s often a sign that the seal in a double-pane or insulated glass unit has failed. This obstructs the view and reduces the window’s ability to regulate indoor temperatures. Replacing fogged glass is the only effective solution to restore both clarity and energy efficiency.
- Drafts or temperature imbalances
Do you notice cold drafts near your windows in the winter or hot spots in the summer? This may indicate that the glass or its surrounding seal has deteriorated.
Poor insulation around aging glass may lead to uneven temperatures inside the building, affecting comfort for both employees and customers. Drafty glass should be evaluated and replaced to improve internal climate control.
- Increased energy costs
If your energy bills are creeping higher without a clear reason, your windows and glass doors could be to blame. Outdated or inefficient glass allows heat to escape in winter and enter during summer, forcing HVAC systems to work harder. Replacing your building’s glass with modern, energy-efficient options can lead to significant long-term savings.
- Outdated or non-code-compliant glass
Commercial properties are required to meet specific safety, fire, and energy codes. Older buildings may still have single-pane or annealed glass that no longer complies with modern standards. This poses a potential liability and could affect property value and insurance. Glass replacement ensures your building remains up to code and safe for all occupants.
- Safety and security concerns
Damaged, thin, or improperly installed glass can make your building more vulnerable to break-ins or weather-related damage. Upgrading to safety glass, such as tempered or laminated glass, can drastically improve your building’s ability to withstand impact and protect against forced entry, giving you peace of mind and improving occupant safety.
- Noticeable noise pollution
If outside noise seems unusually loud, your windows may be underperforming in terms of sound insulation. This is especially problematic for buildings in busy commercial zones or near traffic. Replacing outdated glass with sound-rated or laminated glass can significantly reduce noise, improving the comfort and focus of everyone inside.
How to proceed
Once you’ve identified the signs that your commercial building may need new glass, moving forward with a clear and organized plan is important. Replacing glass in a commercial property is a significant investment, and taking the right steps will help ensure the process is smooth, efficient, and ultimately beneficial for your business.
- Assess the scope of the problem
Start by thoroughly inspecting all the glass throughout your building. This includes windows, doors, partitions, skylights, and any decorative glass elements. Note cracks, fogging, drafts, or compliance concerns. It’s also a good idea to prioritize repairs based on urgency, such as high-traffic entryways or areas that pose safety risks.
- Consult with a professional glass company
Contact a reputable commercial glass company once you’ve identified the problem areas. A professional team will perform a detailed inspection, confirm your findings, and recommend the best solutions.
They’ll also help you understand which replacements are needed immediately and which can be scheduled later. Look for a company like Murray Glass that has experience in commercial properties and knowledge of local building codes and safety regulations.
- Choose the right type of replacement glass
Not all glass is created equal. Work with your glass provider to select the best glass for each specific area. Options may include:
- Tempered glass for strength and safety
- Insulated glass units (IGUs) for energy efficiency
- Laminated glass for added security and sound insulation
- Low-E or tinted glass for UV protection and glare reduction
Your glass professional will help you balance performance, aesthetics, and budget to make the right choice for your building.
- Plan for minimal disruption
Replacing glass in a commercial space impacts employees, tenants, or customers, so planning ahead is important. Coordinate with your contractor to schedule work during off-hours, weekends, or slower business periods. Ask about the expected timeline, access needs, and any safety precautions that should be in place to keep operations running smoothly while work is underway.
- Ensure proper disposal of old glass
Removing old or damaged glass needs to be handled carefully and responsibly. Make sure your glass contractor includes removal and proper disposal as part of the replacement project. Many companies can recycle old glass, keeping the job site clean and supporting sustainability efforts.
Schedule ongoing maintenance
Once your new glass is installed, don’t wait until the next crack or draft appears. Set up a regular inspection and maintenance schedule to keep your investment in top condition. Routine cleaning, seal checks, and early repairs can extend the life of your glass and help prevent more costly issues down the line.
Benefits of commercial glass replacement
Replacing old or damaged glass in your commercial building is a strategic investment that offers lasting value. Beyond improving safety and resolving immediate issues, new commercial glass delivers a range of benefits that enhance your property and business operations.
One of the most significant advantages is improved energy efficiency. Modern glass technologies, such as insulated glass units (IGUs) and low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings, help regulate indoor temperatures by minimizing heat transfer. This puts less strain on your HVAC system and can lead to noticeable savings on energy bills throughout the year.
Upgrading your glass also boosts curb appeal. Clean, clear, and updated glass instantly gives your building a more modern, professional appearance — an important factor when welcoming clients, customers, or tenants.
Newer glass options also greatly improve safety and security. Tempered and laminated glass are far more impact-resistant than older types, offering protection against break-ins, accidents, and severe weather. This helps create a safer environment for everyone inside the building.
In addition, replacing your commercial glass increases property value. Energy-efficient, code-compliant glass is a highly desirable feature in any commercial space and can enhance your building’s resale or leasing potential.
Lastly, newer glass materials often come with durable, low-maintenance finishes. Features like anti-fog coatings, UV protection, and scratch-resistant surfaces reduce the need for constant cleaning or repairs, saving time and maintenance costs in the long run.
Investing in commercial glass replacement is a smart way to improve efficiency, safety, and long-term value while giving your building a refreshed, professional look.
Commercial glass replacement with Murray Glass
If you’ve noticed signs that you need commercial glass repair or commercial glass replacement, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Trust the experts at Murray Glass to restore your building’s clarity, safety, and efficiency.
With years of experience in commercial glass repair and commercial glass replacement, our team handles projects of any size with precision, professionalism, and minimal disruption to your business.
Whether you’re dealing with cracked windows, fogged glass, or outdated panels, we’ll guide you through the process and deliver high-quality results that stand the test of time. Contact Murray Glass today to schedule a consultation and discover why businesses across Utah rely on us for all their commercial glass needs.
