Glass Problems and Causes Guide

Most glass problems have simple causes. A shower door leaks because a seal has hardened or a sweep has worn out. A door sags because screws are loose or a hinge has worn. A sliding door sticks because rollers are worn or the track is dirty. A double-pane window fogs because its seal failed and moisture got in. A mirror blackens at the edges because moisture attacked the backing. Knowing the cause tells you whether a quick repair is enough or glass needs to be replaced.

Some problems need attention right away. A chipped or cracked piece of tempered glass can fail without warning. A loose hinge on a heavy door can let the glass drop. Broken glass needs safe cleanup and often a board-up. Other issues, such as hard water film and spots, build slowly and are easiest to fix early. We look at the glass, hardware and surroundings, tell you what we see and explain whether to repair, replace or just clean.

Best for

• Owners with leaking doors
• People with foggy windows
• Anyone with chipped glass
• Property managers