Glass doors add a sense of openness and light, which makes them a beautiful feature in many homes and businesses. But what happens when that seamless, transparent surface is interrupted by a crack? A cracked glass door can be both a safety concern and an eyesore, whether you notice a small chip or a growing spider web of cracks.
In such a situation, you may be stuck with the question, “Can this be fixed, or do I need to replace the whole thing?” Let’s explore if your unique situation calls for a glass door repair, a replacement, or if a DIY solution might be suitable for the best outcome.
Understanding the Severity of the Crack
Knowing how serious your glass door crack is can help you decide the next step. It’s all about keeping things safe, secure, and making sure your door stays in good shape.
Small Chips and Surface Cracks
Does a small, almost unnoticeable chip in your glass door even matter? The truth is, small surface cracks are quite common, especially in high traffic areas where doors are used frequently. While these racks don’t post immediate danger, they may precursor to significant damage if ignored.
It’s just how a small crack on your phone’s screen doesn’t feel like a big problem, but with one wrong move, it spreads quickly. Professionals can fill the small chips and crack with clear resin. Other than that, glass door repair kits are also another solution. These solutions are only suitable if the crack is on the surface and hasn’t penetrated into the full thickness of the glass.
Larger Cracks
Is the crack on your glass door slowly growing over time? It might feel like watching a plant grow, but unlike a plant, the results will be far less fruitful. Larger cracks spreading across the surface become a major problem. Not only do they compromise the aesthetics of your glass door, but they also weaken its structure.
The chances of a glass door repair diminish if the large crack spreads with a touch or shifts in temperature. At this point, the cracked glass door is a ticking time bomb, and one accidental bump could shatter it completely.
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Tempered vs. Non-Tempered Glass
The type of glass your door is made of also matters. If it’s tempered glass, it’s designed to break into small, safe pieces when it shatters. While this is a safety feature, however, it means that even a small crack often requires a full glass door replacement.
Non-tempered glass, on the other hand, is more fragile but can sometimes be repaired if the crack is small and in the right location. If the crack is away from the edges and doesn’t affect the door’s stability, a glass door repair might be possible.
When Should You Replace Rather Than Repair?
Can you really put a price on peace of mind? While glass door repairs seem like a more affordable solution, some situations call for a replacement.
Safety Concerns
If you have pets or young children running around, a cracked door becomes more than just an aesthetic issue. Even if the crack seems stable, the glass door still remains a safety hazard. What if someone bumps into it? Unexpectedly, with the right amount of weather or pressure fluctuation, the door will break. If you notice a sizable crack, it is best to replace it.
Compromised Insulation
Have you noticed an air draft recently? If your class glass door is installed on an exterior entryway, such as a balcony or patio, the crack can compromise the insulation of your home. As a result, cold air seeps in during winters or cool air escapes in the summer. Not only does the draft cause discomfort but also leads to higher energy bills. For this reason, it is best to replace it.
DIY Tips for Preventing Further Damage
While you’re deciding whether to get a glass door repair or replacement, there are a few steps you can take to prevent the crack from worsening.
- Don’t put pressure on the door, especially if it in a high-traffic area.
- Avoid trying to open and close the door too often.
- Use a clear tape to temporarily prevent the crack from spreading. This helps hold the glass together until a more permanent solution.
- Try to keep the room temperature steady to avoid stressing the glass further.
- If the glass door is exposed to direct sunlight, consider using curtains or blinds to keep it cool.
The Glass Door Experts: Rochester Door Company
So, can a cracked glass door be repaired? Ultimately, it boils down to safety, aesthetic and whether you are okay with a quick fix or prefer a long-lasting solution.
The next time you notice a crack in your glass door, get in touch with the Rochester Door Company. Don’t want too long to take action.
Call us before your door becomes a safety hazard, our experts are ready to provide fast and reliable glass door repair services, ensuring your safety and peace of mind