Best Practice Guide: Storing Glass Safely Prior to Installation
Glass is a precision product – delicate, heavy, and susceptible to damage if not handled and stored correctly. Whether it’s stock sheets in a warehouse or finished products waiting for installation, the way glass is stored directly impacts its quality, safety, how it is processed and potentially final quality outcomes or service in the field. At Viridian, we believe safe and smart storage practices are just as important as professional installation.
Why Proper Storage Matters
- Prevents Breakage: Incorrect stacking or contact with hard surfaces can lead to chipping, cracking, or catastrophic breakage.
- Maintains Quality: Exposure to moisture, dust, or chemicals can stain or etch glass surfaces.
- Improves Safety: Glass is heavy and sharp-edged; poor storage creates risks for workers and increases handling accidents.
- Ensures Efficiency: Organised storage makes glass easier to access, reducing time wasted and minimising unnecessary handling.
General Principles for Glass Storage
- Store Vertically, Not Flat
Glass sheets should always be stored vertical and upright, against a stable and consistent support frame angle of around 3–7 degrees. Base support legs need to be at 90 degrees to the vertical angle, especially if storing Insulated glass units to ensure both components are supported. - Use Proper Racks and A-Frames
Glass storage racks and A-frames keep sheets supported, with any metallic frame elements separated from glass contact with timber or rubber pads. In the case of IGU storage, avoid soft rubber materials on the base which may push up into the IGU seals, placing pressure on the seal adhesion. - Keep Off the Ground
Place glass on raised supports, not directly onto concrete, metallic or uneven floors. Prevent exposure to dampness and have designated storage areas away from moving equipment. - Protect from Moisture and Contaminants
Store glass in dry, well-ventilated areas, particularly in areas with high humidity. Condensation and moisture cannot be allowed between glass sheets as this will induce staining and potentially difficulty in separating sheets. It is not recommended to store glass outdoors for prolonged periods. - Separate Different Glass Types
Laminated, coated, or specialty glass should be stored separately to prevent surface contamination or confusion during handling. Labelling racks clearly helps maintain order and reduces error. - Rotate Stock Regularly: Apply “first in, first out” (FIFO) practices so products are installed within any recommended timeframes, noting that some stock coatings and treatments have shelf-life limitations before processing.
Best Practice for Finished Products (Windows, IGUs)
- Always Keep Upright and Supported: Finished units must remain vertical with cork dots or paper interleaving when stacking panels of differing dimensions to prevent surface scratching from adjoining sharp edges.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight and outside exposure: Excessive UV exposure can cause unprotected seals in insulating glass units (IGUs) to deteriorate before installation.
- Use Protective Wrapping: Temporary protective films or covers help keep products free from scratches, dust, and handling damage.
Handling and Access
- Glass is both a heavy and brittle material so awareness of panel weights is important. Glass alone weighs 2.5kgs per mm of thickness per m2 so planned lifting and awareness of manual handling guidelines is vital
- In the case of heavy panels use appropriate lifting equipment – such as glass lifters, suction cups, or cranes – to minimise manual handling.
- Ensure safe walkways and clear spaces around storage areas to reduce collision risks.
Conclusion
Correct storage is the first step to ensuring glass performs as intended once installed. By storing glass vertically, protecting it from moisture and contaminants, and using the right equipment, businesses can reduce wastage, improve safety, and deliver a better outcome for customers.
At Viridian, we’re committed to supporting safe handling and storage practices across the industry – because glass deserves the same care before installation as it does during and after.