Storefront Glass: When To Replace and When To Repair

January 29, 2021

Keeping your storefront glass pristine and shiny is a direct reflection of your business, both inside and out. First impressions are everything and knowing when it’s time to replace or repair your storefront glass is key.

Repairing and replacing your storefront glass and glass barriers is essential for attracting customers in today’s evolving environment. If your glass is damaged, less people will want to interact with your business. During this time where curbside pickups and take out orders are crucial, having clear glass is crucial.

We’re here to make your storefront glass replacement and repair process easy. This quiz will help you figure out if you need to replace or repair your storefront glass.

1. Are you losing heat or cold air through your glass?

Yes, I always feel a draft by my windows and my energy bills are high

Not usually, my heating bills are pretty consistent

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Sunlight can heat up the interior of your business, especially near the windows. This forces air conditioners to work harder and can increase your energy bill. During the winter months, this can also cause problems if you’re losing heat through your windows and increases your heating bill.

Your best option is to replace old storefront glass with energy-efficient options including dual-paned glass, new seals and updated frames.

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If your energy bills are regular, then you don’t need to worry about replacing your storefront glass. As your storefront window ages, make sure to keep an eye out for signs of fluctuating air temperatures in your place of business to track your glass’s energy efficiency.

2. Does your glass have a build up of condensation?

Yes, there’s much around the base of my windows

Nope, just the usual amount

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When humid air comes in contact with cooler air from outside, condensation will appear on your windows. Most storefront glass is dual-paned and when moisture is trapped between the two, the inner coating reacts with the condensation. In this case, replacing your storefront glass is a good way to go.

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It’s nearly impossible not to find condensation around your windows. As long as it’s not between the window panes and causing further damage, then a simple cleaning or repair will help prevent a replacement.

3. Does your storefront glass need new frames?

Yes, my frames are dented and often leak

Not today, mine have no significant damage and seal properly

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A lot of older frames don’t use modern thermal technologies or don’t seal properly and will continue to impact your business’s overall costs. If this is the case, replacing your frames is a more energy-efficient option.

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Over time, frames can become damaged due to weather and general wear and tear. If your frames have a few scratches or dents, a quick repair to the seals and glazing is more cost-efficient than a full replacement.

4. What materials do you want for your frames?

Aluminum

Vinyl

Wood

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Of all the metals, aluminum has one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios. When expertly installed and well maintained, aluminum frames can last 15-20 years. They can withstand extreme weather exposure, both hot and cold.

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Vinyl frames are very customizable and are moisture-resistant. If you’re having issues with condensation build-up, vinyl frames are a good option.

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Even though it’s a more traditional choice, wood frames are still used for commercial and residential purposes today. They can last up to 30 years and can match your interior design aesthetic if it’s more classic or traditional.

5. Does your storefront glass have any scratches or cracks?

Yes, I really need to fix it

Only a few small scratches

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If your storefront glass has been smashed or broken, it’s important you get a replacement. Not only does it display the inside of your business, but storefront glass helps protect outsiders from entering your building.

There’s never a good time for broken storefront glass. Get in touch with AMG’s 24/7 emergency glass repair and replacement team. We’re here to help you, in the fastest way possible.

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Great! If your storefront glass has a small number of scratches or cracks, then you won’t have to worry about a big replacement. Glass reglazing is a cost-effective solution if you’re looking for a temporary fix or only have a minor crack in your windows.

Now you know when to replace or repair your storefront glass

Keeping your storefront glass in perfect condition is no easy feat. When you’re competing with weather and older buildings, your glass can affect your overall appearance and efficiency.

If you answered yes to most of these questions, it might be time to consider replacing your storefront glass. It can seem like a daunting task, but AMG can help you out. Whether you need a simple repair or full replacement, we’ll get the job done.

Whether you’re looking for durable, high quality glass for your business, custom glass for your door, or even glass barriers to protect staff and customers from COVID-19, AMG has options for your glass needs.

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