When the glass needs replacing
A cracked or broken pane does not mean the whole window or door has to go. In most aluminium frames the glass can be taken out and replaced on its own, so the frame, hinges and locks stay as they are. We replace glass in:
- Aluminium windows: side hung, top hung, horizontal sliding and fixed panes
- Aluminium sliding and stacking doors, including patio doors
- Folding doors, shop fronts and office partitions
Glass can also be changed for a different type, for example clear glass for obscure glass in a bathroom, or ordinary glass for safety glass where the regulations call for it.
Safety glass and the regulations
The National Building Regulations (SANS 10400 Part N) require safety glass, meaning laminated or toughened glass, in doors and in certain other places, such as panes close to the floor and large panes where people could walk into them. When we replace glass, the new pane must meet the rules for where it is fitted.
That means a broken pane in a sliding door is replaced with safety glass, even if the old pane was not. We will tell you if this applies when we quote.
How glass replacement works
- Tell us about the pane Send a photo of the broken glass and the frame with your quote request, with the rough size and the suburb.
- Measure and quote We measure the pane and check the frame, beading and seals. Quotations are free. A call-out fee of R200 applies only if you do not accept the quote.
- Remove the old glass The broken pane is removed safely. Sliding door panels are usually lifted off the track to be reglazed.
- Fit the new pane The new glass is fitted with new seals or glazing rubbers where needed, so it sits tight and keeps out wind and water.
If the frame itself is damaged or corroded, we will tell you whether a repair or a replacement window makes more sense.
Glass replacement questions
Can you replace the glass in a sliding door?
Yes. The panel is usually lifted off the track, reglazed with safety glass and refitted. If the rollers are worn, they can be replaced at the same time. See sliding door repairs.
Do I need to replace the whole window?
Usually not. If the frame is in good condition, only the glass is replaced.
Can I change to a different type of glass?
Yes. Tell us what you would like, for example obscure glass for privacy or laminated glass for safety, and we will quote for it.
Is there a call-out fee?
Quotations are free. A call-out fee of R200 applies only if you do not accept the quote.
Which areas do you cover?
The same Cape Town suburbs as our installations. See the full list of suburbs.