Could Extreme Heat Be Putting Your Commercial Glazing Under Pressure?

The UK is heating up! While we are all looking for the nearest fan, your building is dealing with the heat too.

For commercial properties with large areas of glazing, prolonged periods of intense sunlight and high temperatures can put additional demands on the building. From overheating interiors to thermal stress in glass, extreme heat can expose problems that may have gone unnoticed during cooler months.

So, is your commercial glazing ready for the heat?

How Heatwaves Affect Commercial Glazing

Glass is designed to withstand changes in temperature, but extreme conditions can create additional thermal stress.

Imagine a large pane of glass with one section sitting in direct sunlight while another remains shaded. The sun-facing area heats up and expands, while the cooler area does not. This difference in temperature can create stress across the pane.

It does not mean that every heatwave is going to result in cracked glass. However, where glazing is already damaged, poorly maintained or subject to particularly uneven heating, extreme temperatures can potentially expose an existing weakness.

If you notice a crack appearing during or following a period of extreme heat, it is worth getting it assessed rather than simply assuming it is unavoidable.

How Commercial Glazing Can Contribute to Overheating

Large areas of glazing can also have a significant impact on the temperature inside a commercial building.

Sunlight passing through glass brings solar heat into the building. During a normal summer day, this might not be a major issue. During several consecutive days of intense heat, however, that additional heat can build up – particularly in buildings with extensive glazing, limited shading or poor ventilation.

The result?

Hotter working environments, increased reliance on air conditioning and potentially higher energy costs.

For facilities managers, extreme weather can therefore be a useful reminder to look beyond the immediate comfort of building occupants and consider how well the glazing itself is performing.

A Heatwave Is a Good Time to Check Your Glazing

You do not need to wait for something to go wrong before looking at the condition of your glazing.

Following periods of extreme heat, keep an eye out for:

·       Cracks or damage to glass

·       Deteriorating seals or gaskets

·       Signs of water ingress

·       Windows or vents that are not operating correctly

·       Deterioration around frames

·       Areas of the building that consistently become excessively hot

If you are noticing the same problems year after year, it could be a sign that your glazing needs more than a quick repair.

Repair, Refurbish or Replace?

Spotting a problem does not necessarily mean replacing an entire glazing system.

Depending on the condition of the glass, frames and other components, repair or refurbishment may be enough to restore performance and extend the life of the existing system. In other cases, replacement may be the most appropriate solution.

The key is to understand the cause of the problem before deciding on the solution.

A professional inspection can help identify the cause of the issue and determine whether repair, refurbishment or replacement is the most appropriate solution.

Do Not Let the Next Heatwave Catch You Out

Extreme weather can expose weaknesses that are not always obvious during everyday conditions.

Taking the time to inspect and maintain your commercial glazing could help identify issues before they become larger, disruptive and potentially more costly problems.

Is your commercial glazing ready for the next heatwave?

Glazing Renovations provides commercial glazing inspections, glass replacement, repairs and refurbishment for commercial properties across the UK.

If you have noticed damage, deterioration or overheating in your building, contact the Glazing Renovations team to arrange an inspection and discuss the right solution for your property.