As the colder months approach, building owners and facilities managers across the UK must take steps to ensure their properties are winter-ready. One of the most important areas to focus on is the maintenance and protection of glass façades. While glass brings a sleek, modern look to any building, it can also be vulnerable to the harsh weather conditions that come with winter.
At Glass Aftercare, we specialise in helping building owners protect and preserve their glass façades, ensuring they stay safe, efficient, and visually appealing year-round. Below, we offer our expert advice on how to prepare your glass façades for the challenges of winter weather.
1. Inspect for Cracks, Chips, and Structural Damage
The first and most critical step in winter preparation is a thorough inspection of your glass façades. Look for any cracks, chips, or other signs of structural damage that may have occurred over time. Even minor imperfections can become major problems when exposed to freezing temperatures, as water can seep into cracks and expand when frozen, worsening the damage.
Additionally, inspect the supporting structures around the glass, such as frames and fixings. If there are signs of rust, warping, or other issues, now is the time to address them. Early detection and repair can prevent a small problem from becoming an expensive emergency during the colder months.
2. Thorough Cleaning for Improved Visibility and Longevity
Before the winter sets in, it’s important to give your glass façades a deep clean. Pollution, dust, bird droppings, and grime that accumulate over the warmer months can leave stubborn stains and residues. Left untreated, these can not only obscure the building’s appearance but also cause surface damage over time, particularly when combined with winter precipitation.
Make sure to use professional-grade cleaning products that are designed for glass, and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the glass or its seals. It’s also important to clean the frames and other surrounding structures, ensuring that any drainage channels are free from debris.
A clean façade not only improves the aesthetic of your building but also makes it easier to spot any signs of damage that might otherwise go unnoticed.
3. Evaluate and Replace Weather Seals
The seals around your glass façades are critical for maintaining energy efficiency and protecting against water ingress. Over time, these seals can deteriorate due to exposure to the elements, leading to draughts, moisture penetration, and reduced thermal efficiency.
As you prepare for winter, inspect the weather seals around each pane of glass for any signs of wear, such as cracking, peeling, or gaps. Replacing damaged seals will help to improve insulation, reduce heating costs, and prevent the buildup of condensation that can lead to mould or mildew in the building.
4. Prepare for Ice and Snow Build-up
In winter, ice and snow can build up on glass façades, especially on sloped or recessed areas where water tends to collect. This can lead to structural stress on the glass and increase the risk of cracks or fractures. To prevent these issues, consider applying a protective hydrophobic coating to the glass. This coating helps repel water, making it harder for ice to form and easier to remove if it does.
Ensure that your building’s drainage systems are also functioning properly. If snow or ice begins to melt, poor drainage could lead to water pooling near your glass panels, causing leaks or even damaging the façade. A proactive inspection of these systems can prevent water-related damage throughout the season.
5. Consider Winter-Specific Solutions
If your building is located in an area prone to particularly harsh winters, you may want to consider installing winter-specific solutions to protect your glass façades. These can include retractable shutters or protective screens that shield the glass from extreme weather events like hailstorms or strong winds.
Another option to improve winter performance is upgrading to energy-efficient thermal glass, which is designed to retain heat more effectively. This can make a significant difference in reducing your building’s energy consumption during the colder months, while also minimising the risk of condensation and frost formation on the interior side of the glass.
6. Monitor and Address Condensation Issues
Condensation on the interior of glass façades can be a common issue during the winter months. While some condensation is normal, excessive moisture build-up can indicate poor insulation or ventilation, which can lead to mould growth, damage to surrounding structures, and even affect the health of building occupants.
To prevent these problems, ensure your building has adequate ventilation and consider installing moisture control systems. For older glass façades, upgrading to double or triple-glazed panels with a thermal break can dramatically reduce the likelihood of condensation forming on the inside of the glass.
7. Routine Maintenance and Professional Inspections
A routine maintenance schedule is essential for keeping your glass façades in excellent condition throughout the winter. This includes regular cleaning, checking for new damage, and monitoring the effectiveness of weather seals and coatings.
We highly recommend scheduling a professional inspection before the winter months begin. At Glass Aftercare, our experts can provide a comprehensive assessment of your building’s glass façade, identify any potential risks, and offer tailored solutions to keep your property safe and efficient through the winter. Regular inspections can help you stay ahead of problems and avoid costly emergency repairs when the cold weather hits.
Conclusion: Be Proactive and Prepared for Winter
Winter can be a tough time for glass façades, but with the right preparation, you can protect your building and ensure it continues to look and perform its best. By conducting thorough inspections, cleaning your glass surfaces, maintaining seals, and taking steps to prevent ice build-up, you can minimise the risk of damage and costly repairs.
At Glass Aftercare, we’re here to help you with all aspects of glass façade maintenance. Our team of specialists is ready to provide expert care and advice to keep your building winter-ready. Whether you need repairs, inspections, or upgrades, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to schedule your winter maintenance and enjoy peace of mind knowing your glass façades are in expert hands.
FAQs: Winter Glass Façade Maintenance
1. How often should I inspect my glass façades in winter?
We recommend inspecting your glass façades at least once before winter begins and again during or after major weather events, such as heavy snowfall or freezing rain. Regular checks will help you spot any emerging issues before they become more serious.
2. Can I clean my glass façades in freezing temperatures?
Cleaning your glass façades in freezing temperatures is not ideal, as water can freeze on the surface, making it more challenging to clean and potentially damaging the glass. It’s best to complete your cleaning before the cold sets in. If necessary during winter, use cold-weather-appropriate cleaning methods, such as a mild solution that won’t freeze quickly.
3. How can I prevent condensation on my glass façades in winter?
Condensation can be reduced by improving your building’s ventilation and upgrading to double or triple glazing with a thermal break. Reducing humidity levels indoors and ensuring proper insulation can also help prevent excess moisture from forming.
4. What is a hydrophobic coating, and how does it help in winter?
A hydrophobic coating is a protective layer applied to glass that repels water. During winter, it helps prevent snow, ice, and water from sticking to the glass surface, making it easier to clear and reducing the chances of damage due to ice buildup.
5. Should I upgrade to thermal glass before winter?
If your building has older, less efficient glass, upgrading to thermal glass can be an excellent investment before winter. It improves insulation, reduces heating costs, and minimises condensation, all of which are key concerns during the colder months.
6. What should I do if I notice cracks or chips in the glass?
Cracks and chips can worsen in freezing temperatures, so it’s essential to address them immediately. Contact a professional glass repair service to assess and fix the damage before it becomes more severe, potentially leading to more costly repairs.
7. How does winter weather affect the seals around glass façades?
Cold weather can cause seals to shrink, crack, or lose their effectiveness over time, leading to draughts, water leaks, and reduced energy efficiency. Regularly inspecting and replacing worn seals before winter ensures better insulation and prevents moisture ingress.