Generalities

To ensure the integrity of the glazing and prevent possible defects, it is essential that the glazing is stored and handled correctly before installation. Improper storage and handling can lead to defects that could void the warranty. Insulating glazing is sensitive to environmental conditions, and following strict storage and handling standards can prevent problems from occurring.

Glass storage 

To prevent iridescence and stains from forming on the glass, stained glass must be stored under controlled conditions. They should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated warehouse protected from sun, rain and moisture. Also, the windows should not be stored outdoors or near sources of moisture and large temperature changes. Laminated glass should be stored away from door openings to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures or sudden environmental changes.

Warehouses must be heated in winter, at a minimum temperature of 10°C, and must be well ventilated in summer. Storage spaces must be free from dust and abrasive powders. The supports on which the windows are placed must have an inclination of 6 degrees from the vertical and be covered with a flexible material.

Before storage, the glasses must be placed on a flat and resistant surface, and there must be spacers (corks, paper) between the bottles to prevent direct contact between them. The height of the glass stacks should not exceed 30 cm from the storage rack.

Storage of Glass in the Construction Site

In the construction site, the glazing must be stored in places away from moisture, sun, dust and cement splashes or residues from grinding and welding. They should be kept on a flat and sturdy surface, away from traffic areas. If the windows are stored outdoors, they must be covered with a tarpaulin that allows air to circulate.

Protection of the glazing against large temperature variations must also be ensured, as a difference of more than 30°C between two close areas can cause the glass to break due to thermal shock.

Storage Time

Storage periods are specified depending on the type of window:

• Plain glass sheets: 15 days from delivery.
• Insulating glazing: 10 days from delivery, subject to the other storage conditions mentioned.

A "first in, first out" system is recommended to ensure proper stock management.

Handling of Stained Glass

The handling of the glass panes must be done with great care to prevent their damage. It is necessary that persons handling the windows wear gloves, which must be kept dry and clean. Also:

• Each glazing element must be carefully released from the stack before being lifted.
• Any contact between the panes must be avoided.
• The glasses should not be placed on rough surfaces or in contact with hard objects.
• It is not recommended to handle the glazing in a horizontal position.

In addition, glazing should not be stored near corrosive agents (such as cement or fresh concrete). The glass can be wiped with a soft, dry cloth using a suitable solution (e.g. 75% isopropyl alcohol).

In the case of handling vacuum cups, it is important that the cups are made of silicone and perfectly clean. It is recommended to consult the manufacturer's documentation for additional details on cleaning vacuum cups.

Exclusion of Warranty

No warranty is granted in the following situations:

• Breakage or mechanical cracking of the windows after their receipt.
• External scratches or chips that appeared after receipt.
• Condensation between the sheets of glass appeared as a result of the deformation of the bottles (suction) or due to an insufficiently wide spacer rod, requested by the beneficiary.
• Contact between secondary glazing sealant and other materials, especially silicone. If this contact is necessary, the manufacturer will be contacted to recommend compatible products.
• Cracking, cracking or residual marks caused by contact between the spross and the glass.
• Polyurethane sealant should not be exposed to ultraviolet radiation. It must be protected both in storage and during use.

By observing these prescriptions, good storage and handling of the glazing can be ensured, thus contributing to maintaining quality and avoiding defects that could void the warranty.