Large Glass Frame From Breakage
When packing up a large glass frame for shipping, it’s important to take extra precautions. Because this type of package will travel by truck — which vibrates, even when the driver is careful — there’s an added risk that your precious artwork or photograph could become damaged. To protect the glass and avoid breakage, pack it in a box with padding and a layer of bubble wrap.
The glass you choose and the glazing technique used by a professional glazier can make a big difference in how durable it is and how easily it will withstand stress. For example, if you choose glass that has been properly annealed, or slowly cooled during manufacture to relieve internal stresses, it will be less prone to spontaneous breakage. Also, choosing a tempered or laminated glass for a window or door will withstand more stress than regular annealed glass.
Besides glass choice, the framing system is a big factor in how durable your glass is. For instance, aluminium framing may flex and put extra strain on the glass, which is not good for it’s durability. Steel or wood framing is more sturdy and will offer better support for glass.
How to Protect a Large Glass Frame From Breakage
One of the main reasons that glass breaks spontaneously is because of microscopic flaws and scratches in the surface that can concentrate stress at certain points. Over time, these weak spots eventually give way and cause the glass to shatter. This is why it’s important to inspect your glass regularly and repair or replace any damage as soon as you notice it.
Another common cause of spontaneous glass breakage is thermal stress. This occurs when a positive temperature difference between the center and edge of a glass lite causes it to expand in the middle and apply tensile stress to the edges. If the stress exceeds the glass’s edge strength, it will break.
To prevent this, always lay the glass on a padded surface before packing it up to transport. Also, if you’re packing up a mirror or picture with glass, tape an “X” on the glass and pad the top of the frame with bubble wrap. Finally, tape a piece of paper to the back of the frame and use that as a buffer in case the glass should crack.
If you’re unable to replace or repair your glass, consider using DefenseLite polycarbonate security panels instead. These strong and virtually invisible panels are 250 times stronger than glass and have been proven effective in stopping bullets and blunt force from breaking windows and doors. They’re also easy to mount over existing glass to create a more durable barrier against vandals. This option can save you thousands in clean-up and glass replacement costs over the life of your building or facility. Contact a professional glazing refurbishment company to learn more about these products and how they can help you protect your glass from spontaneous breakage. They can also show you how to install them quickly and efficiently yourself.
