When you invest in new windows and doors for your home, you want them to look their best for years to come. So, nothing is quite as frustrating as glancing over at it only to realize that you have scratched glass. No amount of buffing or cleaning will remove the deep, frustrating grooves in the glass, but you do have options.
Glass repair or replacement is an option if you’re dealing with scratched glass, but it’s important to understand which is right for your situation. You don’t want to invest in repairs if replacement is best, and certainly don’t want to replace the glass unless it is absolutely necessary. So, how do you know if glass repair or replacement is best for your windows and doors?
In this blog, we’ll explore the causes of scratched glass, help you determine whether repairs or replacements are best, and offer advice to keep your glass from damage down the road.
What Causes Scratched Glass in Residential Windows and Doors?
The first step in addressing scratched glass is to understand how it happened. There are a few common causes, including improper cleaning, abrasive debris, animal presence, and potential manufacturer defects. If you can identify what caused the damage, you can also prevent repeat scratching and problems down the line.
- Improper Cleaning: Using abrasive scrub pads, metal scrapers, or failing to rinse debris before wiping your windows and doors can lead to unsightly scratched glass.
- Abrasive Debris: During wind storms, dirt and dust is swept toward your windows and doors, leading to etching and scratching of the glass.
- Animals: Dogs and cats scratching at windows and doors can leave scratch marks on the glass, while birds outdoors may also damage your windows.
- Manufacturer Defect: Sometimes, windows and doors will arrive with small scratches or defects straight from the manufacturer due to broken glass fragment presence.
Can Scratched Glass Be Repaired, or Is Replacement the Better Option?
Whether your scratched glass can be repaired or replaced will depend on the severity of the scratches. If you want to ensure you’re making the best choice for your windows, it may be time to reach out to a trusted glass professional for support. However, your initial inspection can help you determine what service you need to budget for.
When to Repair
Start by running your fingernail over the scratched glass. If your nail doesn’t catch the scratch, it is likely superficial and can be polished out. While it can be tempting to do this yourself, it’s best to avoid this, as you may do further damage to the glass.
When to Replace
If your nail does catch the groove, this scratch is likely too deep for repair and replacement is best. Additionally, if it is distorting your view through the glass or it is accompanied by cracking, it may be time to schedule residential glass replacement.
How Do You Know When Glass Damage Is Too Severe to Fix?
While a lot of glass damage can be repaired, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes the scratches and other damage are too severe for repairs. Generally, if the damage to your residential doors and windows are significant enough to compromise the structural integrity of the glass, it is time to schedule professional replacement.
If you are dealing with any of the following signs, it is best to give your trusted glass provider a call to schedule an inspection:
- Significant Cracks: Cracks that are longer than six inches or extend to or originate from the edge of the window often signify the need for replacement.
- Compromised Insulation: When you notice condensation building up between glass panes and condensation on your window sill, this means it’s time for replacement.
- Safety Hazards: Shattered glass or glass with multiple deep divots or chips will need to be replaced to ensure your window or door is structurally sound.
What Are the Cost Differences Between Glass Repair and Replacement?
Some residential glass repair services can cost as little as $100, while more extensive repairs may cost up to $500. Glass replacement for your windows and doors, on the other hand, can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000 or more for a window and even more for larger picture windows or sliding glass doors.
While it can be tempting to try glass repairs instead of replacement to save a bit of money, this will ultimately cost you more in the long run. You may find yourself spending hours and hundreds of dollars trying to repair the damaged or scratched glass only to have to schedule replacement in the end anyway.
If your residential glass professional has recommended replacement, it is always best to heed this advice. Although it is more expensive than glass repairs, replacements will keep your home well insulated, protect you from structural failure, and restore your views from your windows and doors. Don’t put this care off, as it only hurts your home down the road.
How Can Homeowners Extend the Life of Their Glass?
Once you’ve repaired scratched glass, you’ll want to keep it looking its best for years to come. If you want to protect your windows and doors from future scratches, there are a few things you should do to keep them safe, including:
- Clean them with non-abrasive materials and approved cleaning products.
- Perform regular inspections to catch signs of damage in their earliest stages.
- Invest in pet doors to prevent scratching at windows and doors.
- Avoid window films that may compromise the integrity of the glass.
- Contact your residential glass team for regular professional inspections.
With adequate cleanings and support from a team of professionals, you can trust that your windows will be safe from avoidable damage.
Let Our Valley Glass Team Repair or Replace Your Residential Glass
Whether your scratched glass needs to be repaired or replaced, our team at Valley Glass is here and ready to help. For over 60 years, our team has provided expert residential glass services to homeowners across Northern Utah, Idaho Falls, Boise, and beyond. There is no problem too large or small for our team to help you address. Don’t go into glass repairs or replacements with an inexperienced team. Instead, turn to us for expert support from the start.
If you would like to schedule residential glass repairs or replacement, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
