5 signs your glass partition needs changing
From commercial spaces and businesses to private homes, glass partitions are the go-to choice for modern interiors. Not only do they provide practical strength and durability, but they also offer a unique aesthetic and increase light.
However, while they’re robust and require minimal maintenance, like any structural feature, glass partition systems may deteriorate over time. Without proper care, glass panels and fittings can gradually accumulate damage.
This isn’t ideal if you rely on your glass partition system for security and to give visitors a great first impression. So, if your glass partition is no longer as functional or visually appealing as it used to be, it’s probably time to change it.
Here are the signs you should look out for that will let you know your glass partition is due for a replacement.
1) Visible damage
The most obvious sign that a glass panel needs replacing is any damage that is immediately noticeable when looking at it.
For example, after being exposed to all kinds of elements over time, glass surfaces can become discoloured with staining or cloudiness that impedes visibility and can’t be removed through cleaning.
Scratches on the surface can also contribute to decreased visibility, but when deep scratches or chips turn into cracks, these can spread and expand – weakening the glass and creating a safety hazard.
To restore the strength and clarity of the partition, you should change the glass so it no longer compromises the structure.
2) Squeaky or stiff doors
Most partition systems will be used to create rooms or hallways, meaning they will also feature some type of glass door.
If you have a hinged glass door, you might notice squeaky noises or stiffness when opening or closing it. Or if you have a sliding glass door, you may be experiencing resistance when attempting to move it.
Wear and tear on the hinges or dust and debris in the tracks could be causing operational issues, but if you clean the fittings and your glass door still doesn’t swing or glide easily, you may need a new one.
This could be a beneficial opportunity to choose a new style of glass door and upgrade the performance of your system.
3) Loose fittings
Partitions should be sturdy and secure and doors should stay in position when closed – neither should be loose or wobbly.
If you’re experiencing the opposite problem of parts getting stuck, such as partitions that feel unsteady and glass doors that won’t stay shut, these signs of malfunctioning mechanisms could be concerning.
It might be something as simple as a misaligned overhead closer stopping your door from shutting properly, or something more serious, like fixings that have come loose over time making the partition unstable.
Whether it’s an issue with the glass or the hardware, a system reset may be necessary to ensure full safety and security.
4) Seal failures and leaks
Full-height partition systems should have sufficient seals to allow as little air transfer as possible from one side to the other.
If you’re hearing louder noises through a partition or struggling to heat or cool an area enclosed by partitions – which may be indicated by reduced productivity or higher utility bills – there could be a seal failure.
Not only can this negatively impact energy efficiency and comfort, but it can also reduce sound insulation and privacy. This type of leakage is especially detrimental in workspaces where confidentiality is essential.
If you want to improve the seals and insulation, you should consider switching to acoustic glass partitions and doors.
5) Ageing frames
Frameless partitions are sleek and trendy, but framed partitions are also popular – particularly the classic black banded look.
Partitions will only be as strong as their frame or fittings, though, so if the framing system is damaged, it impacts the integrity of the whole partition. This is why you should keep an eye out for rust, corrosion, or warping.
Damage to partition frames can occur for various reasons, from installation errors at the start to structural movement in the building over time. It may not be immediately apparent until it has advanced too far to repair.
If the supporting structure is compromised, it would be best to replace the entire unit to make sure it’s installed properly.
Does your glass partition need replacing?
Have you noticed any of the problems listed in this blog affecting your glass partition? Whether you have partitions that are cracked, not working correctly, or have worn-out parts due to age, we can help here at Glass Interiors.
If your current partitions no longer meet your safety, functional, or aesthetic requirements, we can help you change your glass partition system by designing a bespoke replacement to suit your needs perfectly. Why not take this chance to optimise your office space or interior layout with brand new partitions?
To replace your outdated or faulty partitions with a full design and installation service, just get in touch with our team by calling 0203 793 5455 or emailing info@glass-interiors.co.uk!
