Giving the right fixes for your windows or glass requires knowing what can cause damage. Here are common causes of window or glass damage. Whether you're dealing with a broken windshield or a broken house window, it's never fun. But the good news is that you can take action to prevent these accidents if you know what to expect. That's why we've put together this article outlining the 3 most common causes of window or glass damage. Keep reading to learn more, so you're prepared to protect your valuable assets.
1. WEATHER AND CLIMATE
One of the biggest causes of glass damage is the weather. Humidity can cause your glass to expand. Another potential issue is seasonal changes in the weather. As the weather goes from cooler to warmer or the other way around, the windows on your house or car can suffer. It's also important to consider more intense temperature fluctuations. These can have a big impact on your glass. Keep in mind that heat causes objects to expand, while cold makes them contract. Most windows, whether on your car or house, are designed to withstand these changes. But the problems can happen when they are exposed to extreme temperatures for a prolonged period. This can cause cracks. At the end of the day, no one can control the weather. But what you can do is control what you can. Don't leave your car parked out in the open on really hot or cold days. Also, don't shock your windshield by using boiling water on cold mornings trying to defrost them.
2. PHYSICAL IMPACT
Physical impact is another big cause of glass damage. One of the main sources of this is due to vandalism or property damage. Although these are unfortunate events, they do happen, even in the safest of neighbourhoods. Accidents can also happen. Kids playing soccer or baseball can accidentally send a ball through the window. Birds may fly into your window, causing it to crack. When it comes to car windows, it's common for rocks and stones to cause cracks. As you're driving on the freeway, other cars can cause rocks to catch air, colliding with yours. These types of accidents cause more than 13 million windshields to be replaced each year. Be careful not to drive behind trucks loaded with concrete, rocks, or other construction materials. These can easily escape and hit your window.
3. AGE
Finally, the age of your windows also plays an important role in their likelihood of cracking. Even the best window will deteriorate with time. It's natural. This is a big problem in older homes. Technology has advanced over the years, making windows more resilient. But this isn't the case for many homes built in the 1980s and earlier. They often are made of less durable glass, have double panes, or have less secure treatments. Replacing these old windows can also help you conserve energy since they let less air through them. If your windows are held up by wood, you've probably noticed them weaken overtime. Instead, it's a good idea to replace the wood with aluminum treatments which are more durable.
GLASS DAMAGE CAUSES YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT
There you have it: 3 common causes of window or glass damage. Now that you've read through these, you're more prepared to keep your home or car protected. If you're dealing with broken glass and need a repair or replacement, we're here to help. Contact our experts at All-West Glass in Edmonton today.