The day I learned to respect the 'wiggle' on a big tempered glass install

Two years back, I was setting a 96 by 48 inch tempered panel for a storefront. I used to muscle them straight into the frame, no give. This one time, I heard a loud 'pop' like a gunshot from the corner. The glass was fine, but the sound scared me so bad I nearly dropped my suction cups! Now I always leave that tiny 1/8 inch gap for expansion, just like the old guys said. It's been smooth sailing ever since. Anyone else have a scary noise teach them a better way?

2 comments

2 Comments

lisa_murray12d ago

Yeah, that pop is no joke. But honestly, that 1/8 inch gap you're leaving now? It's still way too tight for a piece that size. The rule is 1/8 inch per foot of glass, so for an 8-foot panel you really need a full inch of space on each side in the frame. That tiny gap is for smaller stuff. You got lucky that time.

paul19912d ago

Man, that's the same "close enough" thinking that wrecks so many DIY projects!