For any business establishment which has physical stores, apart from letting the sunlight in, the store window glass has several other functions such as providing security, energy efficiency and integrity. However, the failure of windows is often not abrupt; instead it can take place slowly over time. And by the time the owner notices that the window glass has turned into a risk factor, it is already too late to prevent the problem. Thus, understanding the warning signs in advance can actually help save money, keep everyone safe and preserve the business reputation.
1. Visible Cracks and Chips
Although cracks may appear cosmetic, once there are some cracks present on the glass, they have the potential to expand due to temperature variations, pressure from wind or even a slight impact. Therefore, if there is any crack or chip visible on your window, no matter how small it is, it is advisable to get it checked.
2. Fogging or Condensation Between Layers of Glass
In case your storefront employs insulated glass units (IGUs), which can be double or triple pane glass, fogging of the layers of glass signifies that the seal of the unit has been broken. This is not only an aesthetic problem, but also a sign that the insulating gas, which is located between the panes, has leaked out. This results in energy inefficiency. Once fogging occurs, it is usually necessary to replace the unit, as it is impossible to restore the seal on-site.
3. Drafts or Temperature Changes Around the Glass
If your employees or customers have complained about the feeling of draft around your doors or windows, or if you have noticed that some parts of your store are difficult to keep warm, your glass may have lost its insulating properties. It is typical for old single-pane units, as well as for those where seals have degraded, resulting in higher energy expenses.
4. Increased Energy Bills Without Any Obvious Reason
Commercial building skins contain a substantial amount of storefront glazing. Where failure of glazing may be due to seal breakdown, outdated glazing materials, or frame damage, heating and air conditioning systems must operate at higher rates to make up for that failure. If you have been noticing that your energy costs are rising without any clear reason, the condition of the glass might be one of those reasons.
5. Discoloration, Hazing, Or Etching
Some types of glass have a tendency to turn cloudy or hazed through time due to mineral buildup, exposure to the elements, and sometimes the wrong kinds of cleaning products used over time. Though some haze can be fixed through cleaning, etched glass cannot be reversed and is a sign that the glass has deteriorated structurally, not just visually.
6. Issues Opening Or Closing Your Glass Doors
When glass entry doors become difficult to open or close, do not align with their frames properly, or make strange noises while opening, there might be a problem other than the door handles causing this issue. Warped seals and misalignment within the glass doors themselves could be causing the problem and will continue to do so with time.
7. Old Glass That Doesn’t Comply with Modern Building Codes
There have been significant advances in codes relating to safety and impact resistance for commercial glazing since the introduction of building codes and safety codes for commercial glazing. Glass in your storefront that does not comply with these codes can become an issue in case the building is subjected to inspection, renovation, or sale.
8. Occurrences of Break-In and Break-In Attempts
In case you have experienced any incidents of break-in or break-in attempts on your storefront, it’s possible that the current type of glass cannot withstand any attacks. You will need stronger glass, such as laminated and security-rated glass, to prevent future incidents.
9. Your Storefront Is Looking Dated compared to Nearby Commercial Buildings
It is important for retail, hospitality, and professional service industry that the first impression that is created by a storefront be positive. Your storefront glass can be making your building look dated compared to other buildings. A glass upgrade would help in making your building’s exterior look more modern.
The Importance of Paying Attention to These Signs
Issues related to storefront glass rarely get better without intervention and the delay in taking action typically results in additional expenses in the future whether it be through emergencies that need fixing, increased energy costs or loss of business because of a bad look of your storefront. In many cases, the issues that arise from commercial glass such as seal failures, stress on structures, code compliance aren’t very visible and need to be assessed by a specialist.
When Should You Consult a Specialist?
Should you have noticed just one or two of these signs in your storefront, it would be best to seek the help of a professional commercial glazier in order to find out whether it requires either repairing or replacement.
Conclusion
Storefront glass is an aspect of a building that is often ignored until it becomes an issue—however, by being aware of these nine indicators, you will be able to avoid expensive problems, hazards, and having a storefront that does not properly represent your business anymore. Inspections and upgrading the store front can not only ensure your property is secure, but increase energy efficiency and improve curb appeal.