If you’re worried after seeing a bathroom tempered glass screen “spontaneously explode,” take a breather. While the idea of it happening in your own bathroom is scary, there are ways to reduce the risk and minimise harm if it does shatter.
To help you protect yourself and your loved ones from harm, here’s a guide on why glass shatters and why you should use safety glass film in your bathroom glass panels.
What causes glass-shattering?
1. Expansion & contraction of nickel sulphide
Nickel sulphide is a contaminant that is sometimes formed during the manufacture of glass. These contaminants, while existing in microscopic quantities, expand and contract at a different rate from glass during temperature changes, which over time can result in spontaneous breakage.
2. Thermal shock
Uneven temperature changes in glass are usually observed more frequently when the glass is exposed to the elements, such as windows facing the outdoors. If parts of your glass panel are exposed to dramatic temperature fluctuations in the bathroom, the uneven expansion and contraction could also lead to shattering.
3. Improper installation
When glass panels are shoddily installed, they may end up bearing the weight of the entire structure on a particular edge. This stress causes mini-fractures that build up over time, which can lead to spontaneous breakage.
4. Pre-existing damage
Damage at any point between the manufacturing process and delivery could also cause spontaneous shattering. Minor chips or cracks might not seem significant but can easily be exacerbated by the aforementioned factors, eventually leading to the glass panel breaking.
How safety films protect homeowners against accidents
Image credit: Pinterest
Safety films are basically transparent covers applied to window glass. This way, even if your glass shatters, the fragments are held together by the film, preventing serious harm to the people in your home. The film keeps the fragments in place for about 72 hours, giving you enough time to arrange for disposal and replacement of the glass.
Image credit: Zenith Films
What are some safety film suppliers in Singapore?
Window-Cool—Specialised films from LLumar
Image credit: Window-Cool
Windowcool specialises in using LLumar safety film, a brand regarded as comparable to the well-known 3M. Their extensive catalogue includes options such as frosted or even colored films for your glass.
Image credit: Window-Cool
They also offer free measurement and consultation services, perfect if you’re still unsure about the safety film they use.
Address: 50 Serangoon North Ave 4, #03-03, First Centre, Singapore 555856
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9am to 6pm
Contact: +65 6288 8323 | Website
99 Nanotint—Industry veteran with 20 years of experience
Image credit: 99 Nanotint
For those with a tight schedule, 99 Nanotint could be the supplier to consider. They source all their films from Germany, with site demos available at their showroom for you to experience the quality firsthand. Their long-standing industry experience is reflected in customer-centric practices, including convenient after-hours window installations.
Address: Ang Mo Kio Street 64, Singapore 569139
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9am to 7pm
Contact: +65 9678 9129 | Website
Jestac—3M-licensed vendor for safety films
Image credit: Jestac
If you prefer the familiarity of 3M safety film, Jestac is a licensed supplier of the brand’s products. The choice between LLumar and 3M films largely depends on your priorities—3M safety film offers better transparency, allowing light to enter without dimming your space.
Additionally, 3M films are rigorously tested for resistance to UV rays, heat, and moisture, ensuring long-term durability and protective integrity. With their 3M Comply™ Adhesive Technology, you can rest assured that the films will securely hold glass fragments together in the event of breakage.
Address: CSI Distribution Centre, #02-06, 2 Kim Chuan Drive, Singapore 537080
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 8:30am to 5:30pm
Contact: +65 6288 8290 | Website
Safety Glass Film: The hidden bathroom upgrade
While unlikely, investing in safety measures to protect yourself and your family from the risk of bathroom glass spontaneously breaking can be worthwhile in the long run. Hopefully, this primer on glass panels and safety glass film will help you address concerns, calm your family members, and provide a practical solution for peace of mind.
Read more articles here:
- Curtain shops in Singapore for every style
- Laminate suppliers in Singapore
- Best wallpaper stores in Singapore
Cover image adapted from: Pinterest, LLumar, 99 Nanotint
Drop us your email so you won't miss the latest news.
