Glass is an essential structural component that you can use on windows, doors and even as a decorative element. However, glass is also fragile and can easily suffer damage. But if you know what can damage your glass, you can devise strategies to avoid unexpected loss.

Discover two reasons for glass damage and what they mean for you.

1. Storm damage

If you live in a storm-prone area, you need to be on the lookout for any damage to your home's glass after a severe weather event. High winds can pick up objects and hurl them through the air. The sheer impact of these objects can easily shatter your windows. Even if the initial impact doesn't break the glass, the repeated stress of the wind can cause the glass to slowly crack and crumble.

In addition, heavy rains can cause water to seep through cracks in the glass, which often triggers further damage. The water can cause the glass to expand, which puts additional pressure on the already-weakened structure. Once the glass suffers damage, the deteriorated structure can be very difficult to repair. In many cases, a replacement is the only option.

The right type of replacement glass for your windows can help minimise the risk of damage in a storm. For example, impact-resistant glass can withstand high winds and flying debris––an ideal choice for areas prone to severe weather. While the glass may cost more upfront, impact-resistant glass can save you more money in the long run since you won't have to deal with unexpected costly repairs or replacements.

You can also install shutters or hurricane screens as an added measure to protect your windows from storm damage. These products can provide an extra layer of protection to keep your home and family safe in a severe storm. Hurricane screens can help deflect high-speed debris away from your window glass while shutters block the impact of wind-blown objects altogether.

2. Accidental damage

Even if you take care to protect your home, accidents can still happen. A wayward baseball or a flying Frisbee can shatter a window, which can leave you with an unexpected repair bill. For example, if a ball hits your window and cracks the glass, you'll need to repair the glass as soon as possible.

In some cases, you can fix minor damage with just a simple patch. However, if a section of glass cracks or breaks, replacement is usually the best option. Cracked glass is more likely to break and shatter in the future.

Before you choose replacement glass, you need to first consider the type of damage. If the window damage was from a flying object, impact-resistant glass might be an excellent option. The glass contains two laminated panes whose added thickness is more resistant to high-speed impact.

Impact-resistant glass can withstand high winds and high-speed debris, which means the glass is less likely to suffer damage in the future.

If the glass damage was due to a falling tree branch or another type of blunt force, tempered glass might be a better choice. Glass manufacturers treat this glass with heat and chemicals that make the structure stronger and less likely to break. And if the glass does break, the structure disintegrates into tiny pieces that pose a minimal risk of injury.

If your home is located in a quiet neighbourhood with little traffic, you may not feel the need to upgrade to impact-resistant or tempered glass. However, you'll reap great benefits if you choose a high-quality glass that can stand up to wear and tear over time.

With today's advances in technology, many replacement glass options are available. However, the replacement process is not always straightforward, especially if the damage is extensive. So if you ever need to replace damaged glass in your home, consult with a reliable glass contractor like South Melbourne Glass to find the best option for your home.