Commercial Glass Replacement: Timing and Process

Commercial Property Services

Cracked, broken, or failed storefront glass requires prompt attention — the process varies by glazing system type and the urgency of the repair.

Immediate board-up is the first response to broken commercial glass. A boarded-up storefront prevents theft, vandalism, and weather entry until replacement glass can be fabricated and installed. Board-up services are typically available 24/7 from glazing contractors and property maintenance companies serving commercial clients.

Industry Best Practices

Glass fabrication lead times affect the total repair timeline. Standard clear tempered glass for storefront applications is typically available within 2 to 5 business days from a regional glass fabricator. Specialty glass — tinted, laminated, patterned, or oversized — may require 1 to 3 weeks lead time. Custom configurations for curtain wall systems can take longer.

Measuring and ordering replacement glass: the measurement must account for the glass size within the frame, not the overall opening. Frame rabbets and clearances between the glass edge and the frame stop determine the actual glass dimensions. An incorrect dimension results in a glass unit that either won't fit or rattles in the frame.

How D&D Commercial Services Can Help

Glazing system type determines installation complexity. Dry-glazed systems (using rubber gaskets) allow glass replacement by removing the gasket and setting the new unit. Wet-glazed systems (structural silicone or glazing compound) require full removal of the old sealant and new application of the specified sealant system around the new unit.

Safety glazing verification: replacement glass in any location that requires safety glazing (within 1.5 metres of walking surfaces, in entry doors and sidelights, in shower and tub enclosures) must be tempered or laminated glass. Using non-safety glass in these locations violates Ontario Building Code and creates significant liability exposure.