How Fast Can a Broken Storefront Glass Be Replaced?
For most broken storefronts we get called on, we can have the opening secured the same day (usually within 2 to 4 hours of the call) and the permanent glass installed within 3 to 10 business days. The exact timing depends on the glass spec – single-pane tempered we can sometimes source from local inventory in 24 to 48 hours, but a custom-IGU (insulated glass unit) with low-e coating, laminated lite, and tinted exterior runs 5 to 10 days because it’s manufactured to order. Below is how we actually triage a storefront break and what to expect at each step.
What happens in the first hour after I call?
We dispatch a crew to secure the opening. For after-hours emergencies we use boards (3/4″ plywood) with anti-graffiti finish, fastened to the frame. For business-hours breaks where the frame is intact, we sometimes install a temporary tempered lite in clear so the storefront stays usable while we wait for the custom glass.
How long does a board-up last?
It’s meant to be temporary – 1 to 3 weeks max – but the boards themselves can stay much longer if a claim or landlord approval takes time. The boards keep weather and theft out. They’re not a long-term solution because they hurt curb appeal and most insurance carriers require permanent repair within a reasonable window.
What’s the fastest realistic permanent install?
If the opening is a standard size and the glass is single-pane tempered (no IGU, no laminated lite, no coating), we can sometimes have it cut, tempered, and installed in 3 to 5 business days. We keep relationships with local tempering plants in Mississauga and Brampton that run rush jobs when an emergency calls for it.
Why does an IGU take so much longer?
An insulated glass unit is two (or three) lites of glass bonded with a spacer and sealed with a desiccant and secondary seal. Each lite has to be cut, tempered if required, sometimes laminated, sometimes coated with low-e, then assembled and cured. The cure time alone is 24 to 48 hours. Custom IGUs typically run 7 to 10 business days from order to delivery.
Does insurance cover storefront breaks?
Most commercial property policies do, subject to deductible. We can invoice the property owner, the tenant, or the insurance carrier directly with a claim number. We’ve worked with most major Canadian carriers and we know what photos and documentation they need.
Will the new glass match the existing storefront?
Yes – we match thickness, tint, coating, and edge type as closely as possible. If the existing storefront is 20+ years old, the exact original product may not be available, but we can match the visual look very closely. We’ll show you a sample before ordering.
Can you replace one panel of a multi-panel storefront?
Yes, and that’s the usual case. We swap just the broken lite (or IGU) without disturbing the adjacent panels. The frame stays in place; we remove the gaskets, take out the broken glass, clean the channel, dry-set the new glass, and re-seal. Total install time is usually 90 minutes to 3 hours depending on size.
What about overnight or weekend installs?
Yes. Many retail tenants prefer overnight or early-morning installs to avoid disrupting trade. We charge a modest after-hours premium but otherwise the work is identical.
Have a project you’re sizing up?
We do free in-home consults across the GTA. Call 416-897-0767 or message luxglass.com.
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