BU636 Protecting glass from damage (2019)

The surface of glass is susceptible to damage by corrosion, scratching, staining and etching. Coatings applied to glass to alter its optical and/or thermal performance are also vulnerable to damage.

This bulletin describes the key causes of damage and how glazing can be protected. This bulletin was reviewed and republished in February 2023. Minor updates were made to the original publication of the same name and issue number published in April 2019.

This bulletin covers: 

• glass manufacture
• causes of damage
• designing to prevent damage
• care of glass during construction
• cleaning and maintenance.