glass installation dos and don'ts

Dos and Don’ts in Glass Installation

glass installation dos and don'ts

Glass installation may seem simple enough to be a DIY project. However, glass is a fragile and sensitive material to work with. Unlike steel, aluminum, wood, and other materials, glass requires extreme care in handling and processing. Minor mistakes can cost you dearly.

Whether installing glass for the replacement of your windows, doors, or other glass structures, you should consider some important factors that can help you make your glass installation successful and hassle-free.

Make the most of your important investment by following these helpful tips when installing glass for your home improvement.

What You Should Do When Installing Glass

1. Explore your options.

Explore the design and material options for your home glass structures. Take advantage of the opportunity to improve your existing windows, doors, and other enclosures at home. The technology has come a long way since your last installations. There are several styles available today that can enhance your home’s aesthetics and add significant financial value to your home. For your windows for example, aside from the traditional casement windows you may have, more modern styles have developed such as slider windows, bay windows, and bow windows.

There have been great advancements in the glass as well. Glass products with Energy Star seal can make them achieve the highest energy efficiency. They can likewise have energy-saving features such as argon gas, krypton gas, low e-glazing, and more. You can ask an experienced glass installer for the best options for your type of home.

Your glass selection can also include clear glass, tempered, and tinted or obscure glass, which are generally available in bronze or grey.

2. Consider the benefits of dual or triple pane technology.

38% of heat loss is through windows and doors in average homes. This may increase to 50% if your home has drafty single-pane windows. Upgrading to a dual-pane or triple-pane design can’t just increase energy efficiency, it can also provide sound-blocking benefits, that can help you sleep more soundly. It is especially useful when your home is located on a busy street or with loud neighbors.

3. Consider the impact of resistant glass.

If you live in an area prone to severe storms or on a golf course, impact-resistant laminated glass is a smart investment. Stronger than tempered glass, It is extremely difficult to penetrate.

4. Handle with care and be gentle.

The sides or edges of the glass are where it is most vulnerable. Avoid impacting them. Cleaning the glass with a mixture of ordinary dish soap and water with a sponge will suffice, followed by a soft, non-abrasive cleaning cloth to buff it dry. Stubborn dirt and stains may be removed with a glass cleaner and damp cloth.

5. Observe safety during glass installation.

Consider installing a film on glass windows that can hold a broken glass.

6. Adjust with shims.

Adjustments can be made with shims installed at all anchor points and anywhere necessary to keep the unit correctly in place.

7. Seal all joints.

Seal all joints with caulk or sealant on the interior and exterior.

8. Hire a reputable contractor.

Glass windows and glass doors are only as good as their installation. When you have chosen the best-suited style for your need and requirements, you’ll need a professional glass installer for a high-quality and proper glass installation. Choosing just any glass service provider cannot guarantee you flawless workmanship. You may not achieve better functionality and improved energy efficiency, the reason for your new glass installation or replacement to begin with.

Seek out manufacturers with warranties that cover the frame, sash, and insulating glass units of your window. Likewise, if hiring a window installer, make sure to request paperwork that assures you that the entire installation team is bonded and insured.

What You Should NOT Do When Installing Glass

1. Don’t use abrasive solutions.

Using washing powder or cleaning solutions containing abrasives can scratch and damage the glass surface.

2. Don’t assume correct measurements.

Most manufacturers offer standard size windows and doors to closely match existing units. Before removing the existing unit for replacement, double-check the measurements for fit. Make sure the replacement unit fits into the opening level, plumb, and square, on both sides.

3. Don’t ignore chips and small cracks.

Mind even small chips and cracks that appear on the glass surface. They can weaken the glass that can subsequently cause the entire piece to shatter.

4. Don’t do the job yourself.

Some people are tempted to do glass installation themselves even when they do not have the experience and the right tools to perform proper glass installation. In their desire to save a little by doing the glass installation job themselves, they end up spending much more than they expect because of poor quality workmanship that usually entails reworking. What’s worse is when their lack of experience results in serious structural integrity or safety issues. Unless you have advanced carpentry skills, have done similar home improvement projects before, and have the right tools for the job, leave major technical activities such as glass installation and replacement to the expert glass installer certified to do the job.

Contact New Town Glass for professional, high-quality glass services. With us, you are guaranteed proper glass installation so your money doesn’t go to waste.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *