5 Steps for Replacing Commercial Glass

Commercial glass is stronger than residential glass but it may need to be updated for several reasons. Visible damage such as cracks, stained or cloudy glass, drafts, or condensation around the panes might indicate it’s time for a commercial glass replacement. Allied Glass & Mirror provides commercial repairs and glass replacement in Cincinnati. Here are five steps for replacing commercial glass:

1. Prepare The Worksite

When removing commercial glass doors and windows, a professional will usually lay a tarp to protect the work area. This makes cleanup easier if the glass shatters or breaks. Professionals also typically wear gloves and protective eyewear throughout the process to avoid injuries in the event that glass breaks. Using a professional from Allied Glass & Mirror keeps the process safe and efficient, guaranteeing the right tools and expertise for the job.

2. Scrape Off Sealant

Sometimes leftover sealant or caulk sticks to the glass pane or frame, causing it to stick or break when lifted out. Professional Glaziers use putty or a precision cutting knife to carefully scrape any excess away. If you can remove the glass pane without it shattering, you will reduce mess and hazards. The professionals at Allied Glass & Mirror may also use masking or duct tape around the edges of the pane to keep it together for the next step.

3. Lift Out the Glass and Remove Hardware

Depending on the size of the glass pane, it can be removed by hand or with utility suction cups. Professionals like those at Allied Glass & Mirror have the expertise and experience to determine what each job needs, such as removal tools for tempered glass or machinery for oversized panes. Using gloved hands or tools, the professionals will carefully lift the glass out and move it away from the opening in one piece, whenever possible. The Glaziers will then remove any hardware, such as screws or nails, attaching the frame to the wall. In many cases, glass companies can remove older glass and commercial framing, eliminating the need for businesses to find a way to dispose of expired materials.

4. Inspect and Clean the Opening

Before installing new glass, an opening should be inspected for lingering debris, damage, or rot. This might be done with a vacuum, a small broom, and even some tape to pick up small pieces of debris. Many glass companies will clean or make necessary repairs or cosmetic adjustments to an opening to prepare for the installation. After cleaning, the frame will be checked to make sure it’s level and ready for the new glass installation. If there is any damage, Allied Glass & Mirror specializes in commercial glass replacement. We can often match or restore your project, even if we weren’t the original installers.

5. Install the New Glass

Professional glass installation methods vary depending on the type of glass installed, the size of the pane(s), and the frame being used. Allied Glass & Mirror has provided customers with custom glass solutions for over 77 years and knows which techniques to use for a successful replacement. Some methods might include:

• Putty or glaze. Window putty is a pliable sealant applied to the gap between the glass and window frame. This protects against drafts, leaks, and moisture.
• Clips or bolts. Typically made from aluminum or high-strength plastic, glass specialists use these to install glass & mirror.
• Molding. A trim detail, typically made from vinyl or wood, used to secure glass.
• Sealant. A watertight barrier that helps the glass stay in place.
• Insulation. Sometimes, additional insulation is added for increased energy efficiency.

When To Replace Commercial Glass

Manufacturers design commercial glass to withstand weather conditions and to be stronger than residential options, but it is still subject to breaking or wearing down with age. Allied Glass & Mirror is a glass contractor that performs glass replacement and commercial repairs and can help upgrade your storefront or business with high-performance, safety glass. It may be time to replace your commercial glass if you notice cracks or your glass windows and doors become difficult to open and close.

Other signs that it could be time for replacement include rising utility bills, increased noise levels from outside, and water leaking through the frame. Commercial glass can last several years, but glass exposed to harsh weather or frequent, direct sunlight may need to be replaced sooner. Replacing glass can also increase your business’s energy efficiency and lower energy consumption.

Find Commercial Glass Replacement

Use professional Glaziers for your commercial glass & mirror to get the job done safely, efficiently, and with high-quality materials. Tempered or laminated glass is often used in commercial settings but sometimes requires special tools and expertise to install. Whether you have a cracked window or it's time for a new storefront, Allied Glass & Mirror provides diverse glass solutions to suit your project needs. Learn more about our commercial glass installation services, and contact us for more information today!