Florida Commercial Glazing Buyer Guide
When to replace commercial glass vs repair it (Florida 2026)
Repair vs replace decisions on Florida commercial glass depend on glass type, IGU age, frame integrity, and NOA implications. The rule of thumb: replace at 12+ year IGU age, replace at any structural sealant failure, replace at any HVHZ frame anchor compromise, repair (re-glaze) at single-pane defects or minor sealant joint issues.
How long does commercial IGU last in Florida?
Insulating glass unit edge seal warranty is typically 10 years. Actual service life in Florida is 12-18 years depending on installation quality, exposure, and weather cycles. After year 10, expect to start seeing failed IGUs (visible condensation between panes) on 5-15% of units annually.
Should I repair a failed IGU or replace the whole opening?
On a failed IGU within 10 years and frame is sound: repair (re-glaze same opening, replace just the glass unit). On a failed IGU at 12+ years AND the building has multiple failures: budget a full re-glaze — once you're in there, sealant joints, gaskets, and weatherstripping should be addressed together. Lifetime cost is lower with a phased re-glaze than one-off IGU swaps over 5 years.
When does a curtain wall need full reskin vs repair?
Full reskin when: structural sealant has failed at multiple bays (Florida structural sealant past 15-18 years), frame anchors are compromised, NOA has expired and current code requires upgrade, or aluminum finish has failed system-wide. Repair when: scattered IGU failures, hardware-only issues, isolated sealant joints, or minor finish touch-up.
Can I repair an HVHZ-rated storefront after impact damage?
Partial repair is possible if the manufacturer's NOA covers field-replacement of individual lites and the original NOA documentation is on file. Without those, the AHJ will likely require full replacement of the affected bays. Hurricane impact damage typically requires submittal of repair scope to the AHJ for review before work proceeds.
What does a commercial re-glaze typically cost in Florida?
Re-glaze (same frame, new glass): $45-95/sq ft installed depending on glass package. Full storefront replacement: $95-145/sq ft installed. Full curtain wall replacement: $135-225/sq ft installed. Owners typically save 35-55% by re-glazing vs full replacement when the frame is still serviceable.
How do I know if my frame is still serviceable?
Get a glazier inspection. Specific things they check: anchor pullout test on sample bays, sealant durometer reading, aluminum corrosion at fasteners and joints, gasket compression, frame deflection under simulated wind load. ACG offers commercial frame inspections at $1,500-3,500 depending on building size — fee credited toward contract if scope proceeds.