Facade glass replacement is a critical aspect of modern building maintenance, renovation, and safety upgrades. In cities like Dubai and across the UAE, where high-rise towers, commercial complexes, and architectural glass facades dominate the skyline, maintaining the integrity of facade glazing is not optional; it is essential.
For property owners, facility managers, consultants, and developers, facade glass replacement ensures structural safety, energy efficiency, visual appeal, and compliance with evolving building standards. This in-depth guide explains everything you need to know about facade glass replacement, when it is required, the process involved, glass types used, costs, safety considerations, and why choosing the right contractor matters.
What Is Facade Glass Replacement?
Facade glass replacement refers to the removal and installation of new glass panels on the exterior envelope of a building. This may involve curtain wall systems, spider glazing, unitized or stick systems, shopfront glass, or structural glazing.
Unlike simple glass repairs, facade glass replacement often requires:
- Specialized access systems (BMUs, cradles, rope access, cranes)
- Structural assessment of framing and anchors
- Compliance with local safety and performance standards
- Precision installation to maintain airtightness and watertightness
In many cases, replacement is carried out while the building remains operational, requiring strict safety planning and coordination.
When Is Facade Glass Replacement Necessary?
Facade glass replacement may be required for multiple reasons, ranging from safety risks to aesthetic upgrades.
1. Cracked or Broken Glass Panels
Visible cracks, shattered panels, or impact damage are immediate safety hazards. Even hairline cracks can compromise structural integrity and must not be ignored.
2. Glass Delamination or Fogging
Laminated and double-glazed units can fail over time. Delamination, moisture ingress, or fogging between panes indicates seal failure and reduced performance.
3. Outdated or Inefficient Glass
Older buildings often use single-glazed or non-coated glass that allows excessive heat gain. Facade glass replacement with high-performance glazing can significantly improve energy efficiency.
4. Water & Air Leakage Issues
If water penetration or air leakage is traced back to glazing failure rather than sealant alone, full glass replacement may be required.
5. Compliance with Updated Regulations
Building codes evolve. Facade glass replacement may be necessary to meet updated safety, fire, wind-load, or thermal performance requirements.
6. Architectural Renovation or Rebranding
Commercial buildings often undergo facade upgrades to modernize appearance, improve branding, or increase property value.
Types of Glass Used in Facade Glass Replacement
Selecting the right glass is one of the most important decisions in facade glass replacement. The choice depends on building height, orientation, performance requirements, and design intent.
Tempered (Toughened) Glass
Tempered glass is heat-treated for strength and safety. When broken, it shatters into small, blunt fragments, reducing injury risk.
Common uses:
- Curtain walls
- Shopfronts
- High-impact zones
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass consists of multiple glass layers bonded with an interlayer. It remains intact even when broken, making it ideal for safety-critical facades.
Common uses:
- High-rise buildings
- Overhead glazing
- Areas with fall protection requirements
Double & Triple Glazed Units (DGU/TGU)
Insulated glass units improve thermal and acoustic performance. They are widely used in facade glass replacement projects focused on energy efficiency.
Low-E & Solar Control Glass
Low-emissivity and solar control coatings reduce heat gain while maintaining natural light—crucial for UAE climate conditions.
Fire-Rated Glass
Used where facade systems intersect with fire compartments or escape routes, ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations.
Facade Glass Replacement Process: Step-by-Step
A professional facade glass replacement project follows a structured and safety-driven approach.
1. Site Inspection & Assessment
Engineers assess:
- Glass damage or failure cause
- Existing framing and fixing systems
- Load, wind pressure, and movement allowances
2. Glass Specification & Engineering Approval
Replacement glass must match or exceed original performance. Structural calculations and material approvals are prepared.
3. Access & Safety Planning
Specialized access methods are selected:
- Building Maintenance Units (BMU)
- Rope access
- Cranes or scaffolding
Risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) are approved before work begins.
4. Removal of Existing Glass
Damaged glass is carefully dismantled to prevent falling hazards or damage to adjacent panels.
5. Installation of New Glass Panels
New glass is installed with precision alignment, correct gaskets, sealants, and tolerances to ensure long-term performance.
6. Testing & Final Inspection
Water tests, visual inspections, and compliance checks are conducted before project handover.
Key Challenges in Facade Glass Replacement
Facade glass replacement is technically demanding, especially in occupied or high-rise buildings.
- Working at height requires trained teams and certified access systems
- Matching existing facade aesthetics can be challenging in older buildings
- Weather conditions can impact installation schedules
- Maintaining building operations without disruption requires careful planning
Choosing an experienced contractor significantly reduces these risks.
Cost Factors in Facade Glass Replacement
The cost of facade glass replacement varies depending on several factors:
- Type and thickness of glass
- Size and number of panels
- Access method required
- Building height and complexity
- Structural modifications, if any
- Urgency (emergency replacement vs planned upgrade)
While facade glass replacement is a significant investment, it often results in long-term savings through reduced energy costs, improved safety, and extended facade lifespan.
Why Professional Facade Glass Replacement Matters
Improper facade glass replacement can lead to:
- Recurrent breakages
- Water leakage
- Increased cooling costs
- Safety violations
- Reduced property value
Professional facade contractors ensure correct glass selection, compliant installation, and long-term performance protecting both occupants and assets.
Why Choose Leskor for Facade Glass Replacement in the UAE?
Leskor is a trusted name in facade engineering and glazing solutions across the UAE. With extensive experience in facade glass replacement for commercial, residential, and industrial buildings, Leskor delivers precision, safety, and reliability.
Key strengths include:
- Expertise in high-rise facade glass replacement
- Certified safety and access teams
- Engineering-led approach with compliance focus
- Experience across curtain walls, unitized systems, and structural glazing
- Tailored solutions for UAE climate and regulations
Whether it is a single damaged panel or a complete facade upgrade, Leskor ensures minimal disruption and maximum performance.
Conclusion
Facade glass replacement is far more than a cosmetic fix, it is a critical investment in building safety, performance, and longevity. From addressing damaged panels to upgrading outdated glazing systems, a well-executed facade glass replacement project enhances both functionality and aesthetics.
For property owners and developers in the UAE, working with an experienced facade specialist like Leskor ensures that facade glass replacement is carried out efficiently, safely, and in full compliance with industry standards.
If your building shows signs of glass failure, energy inefficiency, or facade deterioration, now is the right time to consider professional facade glass replacement.
