Spring Maintenance Tips for Commercial Glass and Windows

Spring is the perfect time for businesses to refresh their space, and that includes taking care of your commercial glass and windows. Over time, dirt, weather damage, and general wear and tear can take a toll on your storefront, office, or commercial building’s glass surfaces. With warmer temperatures and longer days, now is the best time to inspect, clean, and maintain your glass to ensure it looks great and functions properly.

Here are six essential spring maintenance tips to keep your commercial glass in top shape:

1. Start with a Thorough Inspection

After a long winter, it’s important to check your glass for any cracks, chips, or seal damage. Even small imperfections can become bigger problems over time, leading to energy loss, security risks, or costly repairs. Walk around your building and examine all windows, doors, and glass panels to spot any damage early.

2. Clean Windows Inside and Out

Spring sunshine is great—unless it’s highlighting streaks, dirt, and grime on your windows. Use a streak-free glass cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water to clean both the interior and exterior glass. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas like entryway doors and large storefront windows, as these collect fingerprints and dust more quickly.

3. Check and Replace Weather Seals

Your commercial windows and doors rely on proper sealing to keep drafts, moisture, and pests out. Over time, weather stripping and seals can wear down, leading to energy inefficiencies and potential water damage. Inspect all seals around your glass and replace any that show signs of cracking or peeling.

4. Inspect Window Frames and Hardware

Glass isn’t the only thing that needs maintenance—window frames, locks, and hinges also play a crucial role in the durability and security of your business. Look for signs of rust, warping, or wear, especially on metal and wood frames. If windows or doors don’t open and close smoothly, it may be time for repairs or replacements.

5. Schedule Professional Glass Maintenance or Repairs

If you notice any cracks, chips, or foggy glass, don’t wait to address the issue. A professional glass repair or replacement service can assess the damage and recommend the best solution before small problems become costly fixes. Proactive maintenance can extend the life of your glass and enhance your building’s curb appeal.

6. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Glass

Spring is a great time to consider upgrading to energy-efficient commercial glass before the summer heat arrives. Low-E glass and insulated windows can help regulate indoor temperatures, reduce glare, and lower energy costs. If your business is looking to cut expenses and improve comfort, investing in new glass could be a smart long-term move.

Refresh Your Commercial Glass This Spring

Taking care of your commercial windows and glass now can prevent bigger problems down the road while keeping your business looking professional and inviting. Whether you need routine maintenance, repairs, or an upgrade, contact Diamond State Glass today to ensure your commercial glass is in top condition for the season ahead!

As winter approaches, it’s essential to ensure your home’s windows and glass features are ready to handle colder temperatures and potential weather challenges. Properly preparing your windows and doors can improve energy efficiency, prevent drafts, and reduce heating costs during the chilly months. Here are five effective ways to prepare your glass features for winter.

1. Inspect for Drafts and Seal Any Gaps

Drafts can make your home feel colder and cause your heating system to work overtime. Start by checking around window frames and glass doors for any air leaks or gaps. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any openings, keeping cold air out and warm air in. If your windows or doors have persistent drafts, it might be time to consider replacements with better insulation properties.

2. Install Window Insulation Film

Window insulation film is an easy, temporary solution to improve your home’s warmth during winter. Applying insulation film on windows helps reduce heat loss by creating an extra barrier against the cold. This quick and affordable option is ideal for homeowners looking to enhance their energy efficiency without major upgrades.

3. Consider Double-Glazed Windows

If your home currently has single-pane windows, upgrading to double-glazed (or insulated) windows can significantly improve warmth retention and energy efficiency. Double-glazed windows have two layers of glass with a space in between, acting as an insulator to keep indoor temperatures stable. This investment not only enhances comfort but can also lead to long-term savings on heating costs.

4. Clean Windows and Glass Features

Clean windows let in more sunlight, which can naturally warm your home during sunny winter days. Before the colder months set in, thoroughly clean your windows, glass doors, and any other glass features. Removing dirt and debris improves visibility, increases natural light, and ensures that your glass features look their best, even in winter’s dim light.

5. Protect Exterior Glass Features

Winter can be harsh on exterior glass, such as glass doors, skylights, and decorative windows. Apply a protective weather-resistant sealant on exterior glass surfaces to guard against moisture buildup, freezing, and cracking. Additionally, consider adding storm windows or temporary covers for particularly exposed areas to prevent damage from snow, ice, or wind.

Contact Us

Preparing your windows and glass features for winter can make a big difference in comfort and energy efficiency. At Diamond State Glass, we offer expert services to help you maintain, upgrade, or replace your home’s glass features for any season. Contact us today to learn how we can assist with your winter preparations and keep your home cozy and efficient.

Incorporating glass into home design has become increasingly popular, offering a sleek and contemporary aesthetic that enhances the overall appeal of modern homes. From maximizing natural light to creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, glass design trends continue to evolve. Here are the top 5 trends in glass design for modern homes that you should consider for your next renovation or new build.

1. Frameless Shower Doors

Why It’s Trending

Frameless shower doors have become a staple in modern bathroom design. They offer a clean, minimalist look that opens up the space, making even small bathrooms feel larger and more luxurious.

Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Frameless doors provide a sleek, uninterrupted look.
• Ease of Cleaning: Fewer metal parts mean less to clean and maintain.
• Customization: Available in various sizes and styles to fit any bathroom layout.

2. Glass Railings

Why It’s Trending

Glass railings are a popular choice for both interior and exterior applications. They offer unobstructed views and a contemporary look that complements modern architectural styles.

Benefits

• Visibility: Perfect for showcasing beautiful views inside and outside the home.
• Safety: Provides a barrier without the bulk of traditional railings.
• Versatility: Suitable for staircases, balconies, and decks.

3. Floor-to-Ceiling Windows

Why It’s Trending

Floor-to-ceiling windows are synonymous with modern design. They allow natural light to flood the interior spaces and create a strong connection with the outdoors.

Benefits

• Natural Light: Enhances the sense of space and reduces the need for artificial lighting.
• Views: Maximizes the visibility of the surrounding landscape.
• Energy Efficiency: Modern glass technologies can improve insulation and reduce energy costs.

4. Glass Backsplashes

Why It’s Trending

Glass backsplashes are gaining popularity in kitchens and bathrooms for their sleek, modern look and ease of maintenance.

Benefits

• Easy to Clean: Smooth surface makes cleaning a breeze.
• Reflective Qualities: Enhances the sense of space and light.
• Customizable: Available in various colors and finishes to match any décor.

5. Smart Glass Technology

Why It’s Trending

Smart glass, also known as switchable glass, is a cutting-edge trend that allows homeowners to control the transparency of the glass with the touch of a button.

Benefits

• Privacy on Demand: Instantly switch from clear to opaque for privacy.
• Energy Efficiency: This can help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs.
• Modern Aesthetics: Adds a high-tech touch to any home.

Incorporating these top glass design trends into your home can significantly enhance its aesthetic appeal, functionality, and value. Whether you’re renovating your bathroom with frameless shower doors or installing floor-to-ceiling windows to maximize natural light, Diamond State Glass is here to help. Our team of experts can guide you through the selection and installation process, ensuring your glass design dreams become a reality.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist with your next project.

A well-designed shower enclosure can enhance your bathroom’s aesthetic appeal and functionality. However, like all fixtures, shower enclosures can wear out over time. Recognizing the signs that it’s time to replace your shower enclosure can help you maintain a beautiful and functional bathroom. Here are the top five signs that you need a new shower enclosure.

Visible Damage and Wear

Visible damage is one of the most obvious signs that your shower enclosure needs replacing. This can include:

• Cracks and Chips: Over time, glass can become chipped or cracked. These imperfections not only look unsightly but can also pose safety risks.
• Rust and Corrosion: Metal frames and hardware can rust or corrode, particularly in the damp environment of a bathroom. This not only affects the appearance but can also weaken the structure of the enclosure.
• Mold and Mildew: Persistent mold and mildew growth around the seals and joints can indicate that the enclosure is no longer watertight.

Persistent Leaks

A properly functioning shower enclosure should keep water inside the shower area. If you notice water pooling on the bathroom floor after a shower, it may be time for a replacement. Common causes of leaks include:

• Worn-Out Seals: The seals around the door and panels can degrade over time, allowing water to escape.
• Misaligned Doors: Doors that no longer close correctly can create gaps where water can leak out.
• Damaged Frames: A damaged or warped frame can prevent the enclosure from sealing correctly.

Difficulty Opening and Closing the Door

If your shower door is difficult to open or close, it indicates something is wrong. This could be due to:

• Hinge Problems: Hinges can wear out or become corroded, making the door hard to operate.
• Track Issues: Sliding doors can become stuck if the tracks are damaged or filled with debris.
• Warped Frames: Warping or bending of the frame can misalign the door, making it difficult to open and close smoothly.

Outdated Design

An outdated shower enclosure can make your entire bathroom look old-fashioned. If your enclosure looks like it’s from a bygone era, it might be time for an upgrade. Modern shower enclosures offer:

• Customization Options: You can choose from various styles, finishes, and configurations to suit your taste and bathroom design.
• Improved Materials: Newer materials resist staining and are easier to clean.
• Sleek, Frameless Designs: Frameless glass enclosures provide a clean, contemporary look.

Frequent Maintenance Issues

If you find yourself constantly repairing your shower enclosure, replacing it may be more cost-effective. Frequent maintenance issues can include:

• Loose or Broken Handles: Constantly tightening or replacing handles can indicate underlying structural issues.
• Sealant Repairs: Frequently reapplying sealant to stop leaks is not a long-term solution and indicates that the enclosure needs to be fixed.
• Glass Cleaning: Older glass can become scratched and permanently stained, making it difficult to keep clean.

Recognizing the signs that you need a new shower enclosure can save you from further damage and costly repairs. Whether it’s visible damage, persistent leaks, operational issues, an outdated design, or frequent maintenance, addressing these problems can enhance the functionality and appearance of your bathroom. 

Upgraded, Customized Shower Enclosures for Your Home

Are your shower enclosures causing you problems? If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it might be time to look into an upgrade. At Diamond State Glass, we provide professional glass services, including residential and commercial windows. We can even create customized options for a more unique look or for older buildings.

In addition to windows, we can also help you with custom windows,glass tabletops, and more. Give us a call or send a message today to learn more! 

Personalized Style

Custom glasswork allows you to express your unique style and vision. Whether it’s a bespoke mirror in your entryway or a custom glass tabletop, these pieces add a personal touch that reflects your taste and complements your home’s decor.

Maximized Functionality

With custom solutions, your glass installations are tailored to meet your specific needs, optimizing the functionality of each space.

Whether for light diffusion, privacy, or aesthetic appeal, custom glasswork ensures that every piece perfectly serves its intended purpose.

Increased Home Value

High-quality, custom glass features can significantly enhance the value of your home.

These unique additions are attractive to potential buyers and signify a well-cared-for home, making them a wise investment.

Superior Quality and Craftsmanship

Choosing custom glasswork means opting for superior quality. Professionals like Diamond State Glass pride themselves on craftsmanship, ensuring that each piece is beautiful and durable, standing the test of time.

For anyone considering an upgrade to their home or business, custom glasswork offers a blend of aesthetic appeal, functionality, and quality that’s hard to match.

Custom Glasswork for Your Home

Are you looking to add custom glasswork to your home? At Diamond State Glass, we provide professional glass services, including custom glasswork. We can even create customized options for a more personalized experience.

Give us a call or send a message today to learn more!

Transforming your living space involves selecting the right furniture and choosing the perfect accents to complement and enhance your home’s aesthetic. One of the most versatile and stylish options is the addition of custom glass tabletops. Here are five ways incorporating glass tabletops can elevate your home decor:

1. Visual Appeal: Glass tabletops offer a sleek and modern look that easily integrates with any decor style. Their transparent nature allows them to blend into the environment, adding a touch of elegance without overwhelming the space.

2. Furniture Protection: Beyond their beauty, glass tabletops serve a real-world practical function by protecting your furniture. They shield the surface of your tables from scratches, stains, and wear, preserving the look and longevity of your investment. And who doesn’t want their furniture to look better and last longer?

3. Illusion of Space: Small rooms can benefit significantly from glass tabletops. Their reflective surface amplifies light, making spaces appear brighter and more open. This optical illusion of added space is particularly beneficial in compact living areas.

4. Ease of Maintenance: Unlike wood or metal surfaces that may require specific cleaning agents and regular maintenance, glass is incredibly user-friendly. A simple wipe with a glass cleaner is all it takes to keep your tabletops sparkling clean.

5. Customization Options: One of the most significant advantages of custom glass tabletops is the ability to tailor them to your exact needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a specific shape, size, or edge finish, custom options ensure that your tabletop is uniquely yours.

Incorporating custom glass tabletops into your home is not just about adding a piece of furniture but about making a statement. With their blend of aesthetics, functionality, and versatility, glass tabletops can significantly contribute to the ambiance and style of your living spaces, making them an excellent choice for those looking to refine and elevate their home.

In addition to glass tabletops, we can also help you with glass shower enclosures, windows, and more. Give us a call or send a message today to learn more!

Windows are a wonderful thing, but they are easy to take for granted. Windows allow you to see the outside world while being comfortable inside. They are important for letting in natural light, and they can also be beautiful works of art that come in various designs.

While windows are essential for homes and businesses, they don’t last forever. Even the best-made and installed windows will get old eventually. But how do you know when it’s time to get new ones?

Here are five signs you should replace our windows, according to the professionals at Diamond State Glass.

They Are Letting in Drafts

Drafts aren’t pleasant. Windows may let in drafts because the glass isn’t sealed properly to the frame any longer. While drafts might not seem like a significant problem, they can make your home or business less comfortable and lead to higher utility bills.

You Notice Higher Utility Bills

As mentioned above, higher utility bills are often a result of drafty windows. Sometimes, you will notice actual drafts coming in, as you may feel cold or hot air when near a window. Other times, you might not notice a major draft, but you may find you’re paying more money on energy bills. If you’ve noticed a strange spike in energy usage, it’s worth assessing the quality of your windows.

The Windows Have Condensation

While condensation may occur occasionally because of humidity and temperature changes, it shouldn’t be a frequent occurrence, especially in less humid climates. The biggest issue is if you notice condensation between the window panes. This means they aren’t sealed properly and that water is getting inside.

There are Cracks in the Glass

One of the most obvious signs you need new windows is seeing noticeable damage. If the window panes have cracks or chips, they are likely to let in drafts and even water from rain or snow. In this case, it’s best to at least replace the damaged window.

They are Hard to Clean and Maintain

Even if your windows don’t have any obvious damage, they might not be worth keeping if they are increasingly difficult to take care of. Older windows may have built-up hard water, or they may have components that are more difficult to clean than modern windows. It might be worth your time to upgrade to make cleaning windows easier.

Commercial Window Replacements

If you notice any of these signs in your commercial building, it might be time to have your aluminum storefront windows replaced. Here at Diamond State Glass, our experts can help start the process today.

However, if you’re noticing issues with your residential windows, we can also offer some solutions. While we don’t replace your existing window framing with residential buildings, we can replace the glass and reuse your current framing.

Upgraded, Customized Windows for Your Home

Are your windows causing you problems? If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it might be time to look into an upgrade. At Diamond State Glass, we provide professional glass services, including residential and commercial windows. We can even create customized options for a more unique look or for older buildings.

In addition to windows, we can also help you with glass shower enclosures, glass tabletops, and more. Give us a call or send a message today to learn more!

When choosing how to furnish your home, there are a lot of factors to consider. When compared to wood or other materials, glass tabletops offer several great benefits when used as decor, including both functionality and style. Here are a few reasons you might want to consider using glass tables in your home. 

1. Easy to Clean

A glass tabletop offers unbeatable convenience with an easy-to-clean surface. With a glass table, you won’t have to worry about stains or corrosion and spilled food or drinks are easy to wipe up before cleaning with glass spray. The material is also scratch-resistant, making glass tabletops more likely to look better for longer. For anyone looking for durability and easy maintenance, glass is a great option.

2. Feels More Spacious

However, the benefits of a glass tabletop also go behind functionality. These pieces create the illusion of more space, allowing you to make small or cramped rooms feel more spacious and open. The transparency of the glass allows you to see other furniture behind it, and leads to an expansive feeling that’s relaxing and calm. Glass tabletops are often used for storage space as well, with space underneath to store or display items in a clever use of space.

3. Protects Materials Underneath

A glass tabletop can also serve as a protective shield for whatever is underneath it. They are ideal for preserving wood or painted surfaces. They are often used to safeguard valuable items like antiques or family heirlooms from scratches or stains while still keeping the item on display. This benefit may be especially valuable for families with young children where furniture may be at risk of spills or scratches.

4. Creates Ambience

Enhance the ambiance of your living space with a glass tabletop that shimmers in the light. It can let the beauty of your rugs or hardwood floors shine through, and also let more light into the room, which creates an inviting and bright atmosphere.

Not only does it showcase the beauty of your flooring, but it also permits more light to permeate the room, creating an inviting and bright atmosphere for guests. These tables are a great option for elevating the visual appeal of a room and adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home.

5. Highly Customizable

Glass tabletops are highly versatile since a glass supplier can custom-design exactly what you’re looking for for your space. Whether you’re envisioning a specific shape, size, thickness, color, or pattern, a reputable glass provider can craft a tabletop that meets your exact requests. What’s more, the transparency of the glass means you can also get creative with the base options, further expanding your options.

Professional Glass Supply and Services in Dover, Delaware

If you’re looking to add a high-quality glass tabletop to your home, or any other glass product, Diamond State Glass can help. Diamond State Glass is based in Dover, DE, and has provided sales and services for mirrors and glass products for residential and commercial customers for over 20 years.

As a locally owned and operated business, we specialize in connecting our customers with glass products that look great and will stand the test of time. We’re true glass professionals and can provide exceptional installation, repair, and replacement services. Contact us today to request more information or a free estimate.

When you think about different types of glass in your home, such as windows and mirrors, you may think of more traditional kinds of glass. But when adding or upgrading glasswork in your house, things don’t have to be just one way or one type of glass.

Textured glass is an excellent way to add personality and design elements to your home’s interior. In fact, you can customize textured glass to have a truly unique house. Different kinds of textured glass have various benefits and uses. Learn more about the top types of textured glass to use in your home in this guide from Diamond State Glass.

Arctic Glass

Arctic glass is a favorite for many home and business owners because it has a high privacy rating. The pattern looks dimpled, like sheets of ice and snow in the Arctic.

It has a rough surface that’s commonly used for decorations, like in glass vases. However, it’s versatile and has many uses.

Frosted Glass

Frosted glass is similar to arctic glass, but it’s smoother in appearance. It has a slightly rumpled look that occurs after the glass is sandblasted or etched.

Frosted glass is commonly used in homes and businesses because it provides good privacy. It’s often added in exterior-facing windows. It’s also used in shower stalls.

Everglade Glass

Everglade glass is another excellent textured glass option if you want privacy. It has a high obscurity rating, just like Arctic Glass. It’s also popular because it has a swirled pattern that’s quite elegant.

Because of this unique design, everglades glass is often used in glass panels. It makes a good accent on doors or windows too.

Seedy Glass

Don’t let the name fool you. Seedy glass doesn’t contain seeds. However, the design has tiny air bubbles that look a bit like seeds. Seedy glass is popular because it often comes in colors besides clear, so it’s standard for various decorations, including lamps and window panes.

The one-of-a-kind look of seedy glass, especially if you get it in color, makes it excellent if you want to add a pane to your door.

Renaissance Glass

If you want stunning textured glass that stands out, Renaissance glass is the way to go. The surface of this glass type is very smooth. The process involves polishing the glass with diamond dust. It’s not surprising that this type of glass is more expensive and common for things like armoires and chandeliers.

Custom Glass Fabrication

If you’re looking for another kind of textured glass, feel free to reach out to our professionals at Diamond State Glass. We’ll be happy to give you more information on the types of glass and textures we offer. Call us today to request a quote or to learn more about our glass products.

Shower doors add elegance and beauty to any bathroom. When upgrading your home through a bathroom renovation, adding in or replacing shower doors can make a huge difference in how your bathroom looks. Not to mention that shower doors serve a functional purpose by keeping water out of the rest of the bathroom.

When picking out shower doors, you have two main options: framed versus frameless. Both types include stunning glass elements, but there are a couple differences between them.

If you’re trying to decide between framed and frameless shower doors, read this guide from Diamond State Glass that covers the pros and cons of each.

Basics of Framed Shower Doors

Framed shower doors are distinguished by having a metal edge around the glass door. Let’s look at some of the pros of these types of shower doors:

• Cheaper: For the most part, framed shower doors are more cost-effective than frameless shower doors.
• Less likely to leak: Most framed shower doors have fewer gaps around the edges, so they’re less likely to let small amounts of water onto the floor.
• Easier to install: The installation process for framed shower doors is more straightforward and, therefore, less expensive.

But, while there are advantages of framed shower doors, there are also drawbacks, such as:

• Less modern: While framed shower doors don’t look bad, they’re not as sleek or contemporary as frameless ones.
• Open outward: If you want to maximize bathroom space, framed shower doors might not be the best bet as they can’t open inward.

Basics of Frameless Shower Doors

If frameless shower doors seem like a good option for you, let’s go deeper into some of the advantages and disadvantages of these shower doors. Here are some of the pros to consider:

• Easier to maintain: Because they don’t have metal elements, these doors are less likely to rust and easier to clean. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the hardware on the door, such as handles and hinges, can still corrode.
• Can open inward: If you have a small bathroom or just prefer your shower doors to swing inward, frameless doors are the best choice.
• Look modern: Frameless shower doors come in various styles, but they generally have a sleeker, contemporary design look.
• More stable: Frameless shower doors are made from thicker, fabricated glass, which makes them more durable and stable.

Frameless shower doors are an excellent choice for many reasons, but they do have some drawbacks, which include the following:

• More expensive: While frameless shower doors can still work for you, it’s best to plan to spend more money on them.
• Can be damaged easier: Since the edges are not framed, this means they are exposed and can be more easily damaged compared to framed shower doors.

Shower Door Upgrades You’ll Love

Do you have more questions about choosing a shower door for your bathroom? No problem! At Diamond State Glass, we’re happy to help find the right option for you. Call us today to get started.