Broken Patio Door? Here’s Why Professional Glass Repair in Surrey Is the Smart Choice

  January 7, 2025

Backyards are meant to be enjoyed, but sometimes accidents happen. All it takes is a swift kick of a soccer ball in the wrong direction, a patio chair pushed out a little too far, or a wayward rock kick launched by a lawnmower and suddenly you’re dealing with a broken patio door and no idea what to do next.

Replacing a broken window is bad enough, but sliding patio doors cost thousands of dollars and getting a new one is a huge, unexpected expense that most homeowners would prefer to avoid. The good news for Surrey residents is that in many cases, patio glass can be repaired or replaced, saving you from having to buy and install an entirely new door.

Different Types of Glass and Different Types of Cracks

To the untrained eye, glass is glass. From the outside, most window and patio glass look the same; however, there are in fact many different types of glass designed for different purposes.

Glass for High-Risk Areas

Tempered glass or laminated glass are often used in high-traffic areas—like patios and doors—where the odds and risk of damage are greater than, say, a regular single-pane window found in less vulnerable spots. Tempered glass is heat-treated and can withstand impacts five times greater than normal glass; if it does break, tempered glass is designed to shatter into tiny pieces rather than large shards, reducing the risk of injury. Laminated glass, on the other hand, is created by sandwiching a layer of resin or plastic between two panes of glass. This design ensures that if the glass cracks the pieces remain stuck in the resin layer rather the scattering all over.

Double-Pane Problems

Most patio door glass in Surrey is also double pane which adds another layer of complexity to glass repairs. This type of window is made up of two glass panels with a layer of insulating gas sealed between them. This design improves the performance of your windows, but it also means repairs require more precision and expertise to avoid compromising the seal.

How Professionals Repair Patio Glass

Repairing patio glass may sound straightforward, but it’s actually a technical process that requires the right tools and techniques to get right. The first thing a professional will do is examine the glass to determine whether or not the window can be repaired. If it can, they will carefully fill cracks or replace the damaged section of glass while preserving the existing frame. If it can’t, they will measure the dimensions and specifications of the door to order a replacement glass panel that matches the original in type, thickness, and appearance.

Why DIY Repairs Aren’t Recommended

While it may be tempting to save some money and handle the window repair yourself, patio doors are complex structures. Mishandling the glass or frame can lead to further damage, and what’s more, without proper tools and knowledge, it’s almost impossible to achieve a seamless repair.

The Risks of Broken Glass

Broken glass and injury are the biggest concerns with DIY glass repair. Glass is heavier and more difficult to manage than people think, especially when trying to maneuver a large, heavy pane into a tight patio frame. The pros know how to install new glass properly and have the tools and experience to manage these repairs safely.

Poor Quality Repairs and Long-Term Issues

Poor-quality repairs are another major concern. Just because you can get the glass to fit doesn’t mean it’s been installed properly. Poorly fitted glass can lead to all sorts of problems, including drafts, condensation buildup, compromised energy efficiency, and even structural instability. Over time, this may end up costing more in heating and cooling or you could wind up with more broken glass.

Trust Surrey Glass Repair Experts

Hiring a professional in Surrey to repair your glass ensures that the job is done right the first time, saving you time, money, and frustration in the long run. By leaving it to the experts, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your patio door is not only functional but also safe and secure for years to come.