Post-install workmanship checklists live on how to know the glazier did quality work. This page is pre-order visual acceptance criteria.
Set criteria before ordering
Arguments at punch often start from missing criteria, not from bad intent. If the specification cites a glass quality standard or manufacturer visual guideline, put that reference in the submittal and the preconstruction agenda.
Viewing conditions checklist
TEMPLATE ONLY. Fill distances and references from the project specification / cited standards. Not a universal scratch code.
| Condition | Agree in writing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Viewing distance | Per cited standard or spec | Do not inspect with face against the glass unless the criteria say so |
| Lighting | Daylight / interior as specified | Raking light finds more scratches; agree when it applies |
| Time after install | Inspection window | Separate fabrication defects from later trade damage |
| Coated / Low-E surfaces | Which surface is inspected how | Coating side sensitivity differs |
| Distortion review | Roller wave / optical criteria if specified | Especially for tempered / heat-treated lites |
| Reference document | ASTM / industry / manufacturer citation | Attach excerpt or clause ID to submittal |
Distortion vs damage
Optical distortion from heat treatment is a different conversation from scratches, pits, or edge damage. Treat them under the criteria that apply to each. Do not reject heat-treated glass for inherent optical characteristics that the specification already accepted unless the cited limit is exceeded.
Punch vs fabrication defects
Photograph glass at install completion when other trades will still work nearby. That record separates fabrication/install defects from later damage. See the construction-period protection checklist companion article.
How to ask for criteria alignment
Send the specification clauses on glass quality and any manufacturer visual guidelines named in the documents. ACG: (772) 486-7711. FL CGC #1531993.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should visual acceptance criteria for commercial glass be set?
Before ordering and in the submittal, using the standards or manufacturer guidelines named in the specification, not for the first time at punch.
Does this article publish scratch size limits?
No. Numeric limits belong in the cited official documents and the project specification.
How do you separate trade damage from fabrication scratches?
Agree inspection windows and take condition photos at install completion before other trades work adjacent to the glass.
What should a GC send to align on appearance criteria?
The specification clauses on glass quality, any named ASTM/industry references, and elevation priorities for coated glass.