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Select a topic to review answers to our most commonly asked questions related to membership, events, certification, publications, continuing education, general window advice, and more. Didn't find your answer here? Visit the Contact Us page and send your question via email. A response will be provided within two business days from the date the request is received.
Yes, there are several consensus-developed industry standards for glass. Applicable standards depending on the glass type may include: ASTM C1036, ASTM C1048, ASTM C1172, ASTM C1376, as well as ASTM E2190 and IGMA TM-3100 for insulating glass units (IGUs). Definitions for these standards are provided within the Glass Standards and Guidelines page.
These are minimum standards for the industry. Contact the manufacturer of your window for their specification.
In general, industry standards call for glass inspection to be made with 20/20 vision (naked eye or corrected). Samples are to be viewed in the vertical position at the distance as specified in the standard. Visual inspection distances can vary from one industry standard to another and can also vary by the type of blemish found and by the glass product type.
To assist homeowners in determining if a blemish merits replacement, a simplified glass inspection procedure has been developed for homeowners.
The most common blemishes observed are:
Glass is a material made primarily from sand and as such may have perceivable blemishes; however, they may not be immediate cause for rejection. The window, door and skylight industry has developed an in-depth and detailed set of standards that address most blemishes. However, to assist homeowners in determining if a blemish merits replacement, this simplified glass inspection procedure has also been developed.
AAMA and IGMA, two industry leaders, have unified to form an exponentially stronger alliance. Designed to help our members excel in a dynamic and fast-moving future, the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance, or FGIA, is focused on building better industry synergies from glass to framing.
