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5 Common Causes of Glass Damage

How Does Glass Damage Occur

Glass is a versatile and elegant material that can enhance the beauty and functionality of a home in various ways. Clear windows can let in natural light and offer stunning views, while mirrors can create a sense of depth and space. Glass shower door protection can provide a modern and minimalist look to a bathroom. 

However, as much as we love the beauty of glass, it comes with the risk of breakage. Dealing with broken glass can be frustrating and potentially dangerous, so it’s essential to understand some of the most common causes of glass breakage.

Accidents are one of the most common causes of broken glass, with children playing outside and accidentally throwing a ball through a window or someone knocking something into a mirror, causing it to crack.

Natural Disasters

Natural disasters can also take a toll on glass restoration. High winds can cause thin or improperly engineered windows to break and wind-borne projectiles like sticks can also cause damage. Wildfires and house fires can also cause severe damage to glass surfaces.

Vandalism 

Vandalism is another common cause of broken glass and it can impact your window glass if your home is vulnerable to vandals. Damage during installation or moving of glass shower doors can also result in minor nicks and chips that can weaken the glass over time, making it more susceptible to breaking.

Internal Defects

Internal defects in the glass itself can cause it to break over time. Inclusions containing nickel from stainless steel machinery used during the glass formation can create internal stress that weakens the glass and causes it to shatter. This can happen if the glass is not installed correctly or placed under a heavy load, such as a stack of books or a heavy appliance.

Glass Age

The age of your windows can significantly impact their chances of cracking. Even the top-of-the-line windows will deteriorate over time, as it’s natural. This issue is particularly prevalent in older homes, where technology still needs to catch up with current standards for window resilience. 

Older Homes

Homes built in the 1980s and earlier often feature less durable glass, double panes, or less safe treatments. As a result, replacing these old windows with newer models can help prevent cracking and conserve energy by reducing air leakage.

While glass is a beautiful and functional addition to many homes, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks of breakage. Understanding the common causes of broken glass can help you take preventative measures and keep your home safe. You can also contact experts from Glass Armour to help maintain the glass installed in your homes.