Glass is undoubtedly a reliable, versatile material, and very beneficial. At some point, however, it is bound to deteriorate and break. In this article, we decided to discuss the main types of Windows and cracks in glass, and the best ways to deal with them.
In addition, glass has long been a proven solution for securing our homes and commercial properties. However, some areas require higher security or security. To ensure safety, quality workmanship and the choice of glass used is a major consideration. Given standard glass easily broken when hit from accident, need extra strength, heat resistance and high level of safety glass rise to meet different application requirements. So we will also make suggestions on this.
Types of window cracks
Cracks in Windows are a volatile problem. Some will assure you that they can be repaired and that there are ways to temporarily slow the spread of cracks in Windows (such as super glue or tape). However, these methods only slow down rather than prevent cracking. Eventually, window cracks will spread and completely destroy the window, so it is best to replace the window ahead of time. But did you know that your Windows may develop different types of cracks? Here are some of the most common types of window cracks that can lead to window replacement.
1. Impact cracks
Impact cracks are caused by objects or debris striking Windows or glass surfaces. These cracks are often caused by wayward toys and balls that end up being thrown at Windows. Stormy weather can also strike cracks when branches, pine cones or other tree debris are blown through Windows.
2. Stress crack
Like pressure cracks, stress cracks can be caused by significant changes in weather and outdoor temperature. However, unlike pressure cracks, these usually occur very slowly and gradually. A stress crack usually begins at the edge of a glass plate, then grows larger over time and extends throughout the glass. Closing Windows can also cause stress cracks.
3. Edge cracks
Edge cracks look almost identical to stress cracks. They also originate at the edges of Windows and spread out in a zigzag pattern. However, the edge crack was not due to any change in temperature, but to damage to the edge of the window. If you want to know whether the crack is caused by thermal stress or damage to the window edge, check the window edge for small “oyster” fragments. They are often hidden under window seals, making them hard to find. Another way to tell is to look at the direction of the crack. Stress cracks are found throughout the window, and edge cracks tend to extend outward from the point of damage. In either case, edge cracks or stress cracks usually result in window replacement.
4. Pressure crack
If you have double glazing or insulated glazing, you need to worry about pressure cracks. Pressure cracks seem to have popped up. However, the root cause is usually a dramatic change in environmental pressure due to changes in weather. Windows installed at very high or very low altitudes are at risk of developing these cracks. Pressure cracks are most likely to curve in an hourglass shape, so this is another way to identify them. If you believe your window has pressure cracks, replacing the window may be the only solution.
5. Spontaneous rupture
In rare cases, Windows may break of their own accord. This happens most often with tempered glass, especially if modifications have been made to tempered glazing glass. If not made properly, the chemicals can evaporate onto the Windows. You may not notice any problems until one day the glass breaks. In this case, replacing a window is not only the only option, but the manufacturer of the replacement window should be carefully chosen.
Types of cracks in automotive glass
Cracks in automotive glass are classified according to their type and size. Depending on the size and crack location, a decision must be made as to whether the car glass must be repaired or replaced. The following are the main types of automotive glass cracks:
1. Small chips
As the name suggests, a chip is a crack in a car’s glass that should ideally be repairable. The size of small chips is approximately 40 mm or smaller. This applies to debris observed on windshields, mirror glasses, and glass panel roofs. Here are some of the main types of chips on automotive glass:
a. Bull’s eye crack
This type of crack usually occurs in a windshield when a small sharp rock strikes the windshield. In some cases, a small piece of glass may fall and the impact can cause circular cracks.
b. Star splitting
This crack is caused when a sharp object hits the windshield. Depending on the momentum of the impact, a small piece of glass may fall. The glass forms a star-shaped cavity that can be quickly upgraded. Early resolution of this vulnerability is recommended.
c. Semilunar fissure
It is similar to the bull’s eye crack to a great extent except that the crack is semicircular.
d. Clover leaves
The crack separates the bottom layer of the glass.
e. Edge crack
This type of crack usually occurs near the lining of the windshield (or near the edge of the windshield). If left unaddressed, cracks can grow rapidly, leading to larger cracks. A crack can become dangerous if it blocks a driver’s view.
f. Combination rest
The crack is a combination of a star crack and a bull’s eye crack. This is usually caused when small stones land on the windshield at very high speeds. Small fragments should be repaired promptly, otherwise they will widen and cause large cracks in the front (or windshield) glass.
2. Large cracks
The crack was different from normal chips because the depth of the crack on the front glass of the car (caused by impact of a sharp object) was more than 14 “. The PVB (or polyvinyl butyral) layer is likely to have been damaged, making it a direct contender for replacement. You should consult a professional who offers solutions for restoring the front glass of your car.
3. Internal cracks
External cracks in the car’s glass are visible from the outside. However, internal cracks (also called stress cracks) can develop due to sudden changes in temperature. Pouring hot water over a car driving in cold temperatures can cause rapid changes in temperature and eventually crack the car’s glass. Since the stress crack is located inside the glass, it can be felt by moving your finger (or ballpoint pen) over the crack. In this case, you should choose to replace the car glass, as cracks can expand over time.
How to fix broken window glass
If you notice any cracks in the window, you may want to know what to do about window cracks repair. The right thing to do depends on the size of the crack and the type of window. Sometimes a glass epoxy solution is all that is needed to repair the crack. However, insulated Windows often need to be replaced when they break. The best way to fix a window as quickly and efficiently as possible is to contact a glass repair professional for inspection and consultation. Your technician will make recommendations based on the type of glass and the size and extent of the crack.
Strongest type of glass
1. The toughened glass
This type of glass is recommended for safety reasons. It is manufactured by using a controlled heat treatment or chemical treatment process. When tempered, the outer surface compresses. At the same time, tension is generated on the inner surface, which makes the glass less likely to break. It doesn’t break like old fashioned “annealed glass”, it just breaks safely into small particles that won’t cut. Toughened glass is used in shower doors, motor Windows, architectural glass doors and Windows, refrigerator doors and pallets, diving masks and other different fields.
2. The laminated glass
Laminated glass is a type of safety glass made of two or more layers of glass glued together with a layer of plastic sandwiched between them. Laminated glass is commonly used in windshields and one of the main advantages is that it stays intact even when broken, which helps prevent injury. In addition, laminated glass blocks UV rays and reduces noise transmission, making it ideal for residential and commercial applications.
Laminated glass is also more durable than regular glass and less likely to crack over time. While it is generally more expensive than regular glass, laminated glass is an excellent investment for any home or business owner looking to improve safety and comfort.
3. The flat glass
This kind of glass is the least durable and the most fragile. Sheet glass is produced by casting from solid plates by rolling process. Plate glass is made of liquid glass and laid on a flat metal table while it is hot. After spreading, it is smoothed and polished by rollers while cooling. Plate glass can also be made by a process called float, hence the name “float glass”.
