Glass has been used for centuries. The ancient Romans were among the first to use it in buildings1. Since then, palaces, cathedrals, offices, and homes around the world have incorporated window glass into their aesthetic, and advancements in manufacturing and technology have made glass stronger and safer than ever before. Still, despite its improvements over the past two millennia, window glass and glass doors can still become damaged. Here are ten common types of residential and commercial glass damage and how they can be fixed.
1. Minor Chips and Scratches
Small surface chips and scratches on window glass caused by debris or minor impacts can often be polished away or filled with resin.
2. Cracks
Small cracks in window glass or glass doors can also be filled with resin, but cracks over 15 cm or multiple cracks usually require replacement.
3. Bullseye and Star Breaks
Circular or star-shaped damage with a central impact point on window glass or glass doors can be repaired if the structural integrity is not compromised. However, large or complex breaks or breaks in a central line of sight may need replacement.
4. Edge Cracks
Cracks that start within 5 cm of the edge of window glass are likely to spread and require replacement.
5. Floater Cracks
Cracks in window glass that begin at least 5 cm away from the edge can be repaired with a 7-step process using resin. However, if the crack is longer than 15 cm, the glass usually needs to be replaced.
6. Combination Breaks
When there is more than one type of break in a glass door or window (i.e. a chip with radiating cracks) total repair is often too complex to do without further compromising the glass. Replacement is the best option.
7. Pitting and Etching
Small shallow indentations and cloudy or minor scratched glass caused by exposure to chemicals or outdoor elements can be polished out if the damage is not too extensive. Otherwise, replacement is the solution.
8. Thermal Stress Cracks
Cracks caused by extreme temperature differences can compromise the structural integrity of window glass and glass doors, so replacement is usually the best option.
9. Impact Damage
Any severe impact damage to window glass or a glass door that has caused shattering or extensive cracking, generally cannot be repaired. Replacement is necessary.
10. Hazing or Cloudiness
Cloudiness due to environmental exposure or cleaning chemicals can sometimes be polished out, but severe hazing requires replacement.
Repair the Damage or Replace?
As shown above, not all glass damage can be repaired, but many can, and it is important to do so promptly to maintain the beauty and safe functioning of your glass. Whatever your glass damage, if you are in Southern Ontario, call Northstar Glass in Scarborough. We have over 35 years experience repairing and replacing window glass and glass doors of all types.
Call us today for all your glass needs, including 24/7 emergency board-up and glass replacement, custom commercial and residential glass installation, and window and glass door repair. We're fully licensed and here to serve you anywhere throughout the Greater Toronto Area.