In our area of Texas, the weather can change in a heartbeat. One minute it’s sunny, and the next, a Gulf Coast storm is rolling in. These storms can bring heavy rain, high winds, and flying debris that can cause serious damage to your Baytown commercial glass. And it’s not just the storms – the constant Texas sun can contribute to weakening your glass over time.
If you’re not prepared, broken or damaged glass can lead to expensive repairs, lost business, and even safety hazards. But you don’t have to leave your business vulnerable. There are many ways you can protect your commercial glass from our southeast Texas weather. In this post, we’ll show you the best strategies to keep your storefront safe and secure.
Joey’s Glass has been helping local businesses weather the storms for years with quality Baytown commercial glass products. We have the expertise to help you find the right solutions for your building. For all your commercial glass needs, contact our helpful team now.
Weather Threats to Your Baytown Commercial Glass
Living and working in our area means dealing with some pretty intense weather conditions. Let’s break down the biggest threats to your commercial glass so you know what you’re up against.
- UV Damage: The Texas sun is strong, and it shines year-round. All those UV rays can really do a number on your storefront glass. They can cause fading of your interior displays and products, weaken the glass itself, and even make your energy bills skyrocket because the heat just pours in.
- Extreme Winds & Debris: We’ve all seen what hurricanes and tropical storms can do to Baytown. Those winds can whip up all kinds of debris – tree branches, signs, even patio furniture – that can smash right through your glass.
- Heavy Rain & Flooding: Baytown can get a serious amount of rain in a short amount of time. And when that happens, water can seep into your building through cracks or damaged seals around your windows. Not only does this create a mess, but it can also lead to mold and mildew growth, which is bad for your building and your health. Plus, if your property isn’t graded properly, floodwater can rise up and damage your storefront even further.
Glass Protection Strategies for Your Business
Protecting your Baytown business from weather damage isn’t just about reacting to a storm; it’s about being prepared. The best protection strategy for your business will depend on your specific needs and budget. Talking to a Baytown commercial glass expert is a great way to figure out the best combination of solutions for your building.
UV Protection
- Window Films: These are like sunglasses for your building. They block a significant portion of the sun’s harmful UV rays, keeping your interior cooler and preventing fading. Plus, they come in a variety of tints and styles to match your storefront’s look. Professional installation is key to ensure a seamless, bubble-free finish.
- Exterior Shading: Think of this as a wide-brimmed hat for your building. Awnings, overhangs, or even carefully positioned trees can provide shade during the hottest parts of the day, reducing the amount of UV light that hits your glass directly.
- Low-E Coatings: These are a bit more high-tech. They’re microscopically thin coatings that reflect heat and UV light away from your windows, helping to keep your interior comfortable and reduce energy costs.
Wind & Debris Protection
- Impact-Resistant Glass: This is your first line of defense against flying debris. Impact-resistant glass is designed to withstand high impacts, so even if something does hit it, it’s less likely to shatter completely. Two main types are laminated glass (which has a layer of plastic in the middle to hold it together) and tempered glass (which is heated and cooled rapidly to make it stronger).
- Hurricane Shutters: These are your heavy-duty storm protection. Roll-down shutters, accordion shutters, and storm panels are all options that can be installed over your windows and doors when a storm is approaching. They act as a barrier against wind and debris, giving your storefront an extra layer of protection.
- Boarding Up: If you don’t have shutters, boarding up your windows with plywood is a last resort. It’s not as effective as shutters, but it’s better than leaving your glass exposed.
Rain & Flood Protection
- Sealants & Caulking: These are the unsung heroes of weatherproofing. Regularly check and maintain the sealants and caulking around your windows and doors to prevent water from seeping in. A small crack can quickly turn into a big leak if left untreated.
- Proper Drainage: Make sure your storefront is designed to direct water away from the building. This means sloping window sills, adequate gutters and downspouts, and regular cleaning of those drainage systems to prevent clogs.
- Flood Barriers: If your business is in a flood-prone area, consider temporary flood barriers that can be quickly put in place when flooding is imminent. These barriers can help prevent water from entering your building and causing damage.
Keep Your Glass Investments Secure
When it comes to window films, hurricane shutters, and impact-resistant glass, professional installation is essential. These products need to be installed correctly to provide maximum protection. Don’t risk a DIY job – leave it to the experts to ensure your storefront is properly secured.
Make it a habit to inspect your windows and doors regularly for any cracks, chips, or signs of wear and tear. Catch problems early on to prevent them from becoming major headaches. Plus, it’s always a good idea to review your business insurance policy once a year to understand your coverages for weather-related damage. This can give you peace of mind knowing that you’re financially protected in case of a storm or other weather event.
With these additional steps, you’ll be well on your way to keeping your Baytown business safe and secure, no matter what the weather throws your way.
Your Baytown Commercial Glass Experts – Joey’s Glass
At Joey’s Glass, we’re your local experts in quality commercial glass. We’ll assess your specific needs and recommend the best type of glass to protect your business from the elements. Get in touch with us for a free commercial glass quote.