A shattered shower door can be a stressful and potentially dangerous situation. Whether it happens due to a manufacturing defect, improper installation, or sudden impact, knowing how to handle the aftermath is essential. In this blog post, the experts from M & M Glass share what you need to do if your shower door breaks unexpectedly.
Prioritize Safety First
The first and most important step is to ensure your safety. Tempered glass, which is commonly used in shower doors, is designed to break into small, less harmful pieces, but it can still cause injury. Avoid stepping on or touching the glass without protection. If you were in the shower when it shattered, carefully check yourself for any cuts before moving. If you’re barefoot, use a towel or mat to create a safe path out of the bathroom.
Clean Up the Glass Carefully
Once you’re safe, you’ll need to clean up the broken glass. Start by wearing thick gloves and closed-toe shoes to protect your hands and feet. Use a broom and dustpan to sweep up larger pieces, and then use a vacuum to remove the smaller shards. For any remaining tiny fragments, pressing a damp paper towel or a piece of bread onto the floor can help lift them. Be sure to dispose of the glass properly in a thick trash bag or a cardboard box to prevent puncturing your garbage bin.
Inspect the Shower Door Frame & Surrounding Area
After cleaning up, inspect the door frame and nearby surfaces for any damage. If the metal frame is bent or loose, it might need to be replaced along with the door. Check for any cracks in the surrounding tiles, as they may have been impacted by the force of the shattering glass. If your shower door was attached to a track, make sure there are no remaining glass fragments lodged in it.
Determine the Cause of the Breakage
Shower doors don’t typically shatter without reason. Some common causes include sudden temperature changes, improper installation, or structural weaknesses in the glass itself. If your shower door broke without an obvious impact, it could be due to a manufacturing defect. Check if your shower door was under warranty, as you may be eligible for a replacement from the manufacturer.
Plan for a Shower Door Replacement
Once you’ve addressed the immediate concerns, it’s time to replace the shower door. You can choose to install a new glass door or explore alternatives like a shower curtain or a framed enclosure. If you opt for another glass door, consider upgrading to laminated safety glass, which holds together even when broken. Hiring a professional to install the new door ensures proper alignment and reduces the risk of future breakage.
Prevent Future Incidents
To avoid another shattered shower door, take some preventive measures. Regularly inspect the door for chips or stress fractures, as these can develop into cracks over time. Avoid slamming or pushing on the glass too hard. If you have children, consider installing shatter-resistant film to minimize risk. Keeping the bathroom well-ventilated can also help prevent extreme temperature shifts that could weaken the glass.
Glass Door & Window Repair, Installation & Replacement & More in Norwalk, Buena Park, Rossmoor, Garden Grove, Orange, Santa Ana, Irvine, Corona Norco, Ontario, Upland, Pomona, West Covina, El Monte, Brea, Chino, Fullerton, Anaheim, La Mirada, Los Angeles, Westminster, Yorba Linda & Greater Whittier, CA
A broken shower door is an unexpected inconvenience, but with careful handling from the experts at M & M Glass, you can safely manage the situation and prevent it from happening again. M & M Glass is sure to install it correctly so it’s more durable and long-lasting. Call M & M Glass today.
