Question 1

Do you offer emergency window repair for residential or commercial properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We prioritize emergency glass repair for broken windows and storefronts. Our team offers rapid board-up services to secure your property and expedited glass fabrication to restore your home or business as quickly as possible.

Question 2

What is the difference between tempered and laminated safety glass?

Accepted Answer

Tempered glass is heat-treated to be 4-5x stronger than standard glass and breaks into small, dull granules. Laminated glass consists of two panes bonded by a plastic interlayer; if it breaks, the glass stays intact. We recommend laminated glass (like Riot Glass) for maximum security against forced entry.

Question 3

How long does it take to replace a dual-pane window?

Accepted Answer

Once we have measured your window, a custom-sized insulated glass unit (IGU) typically takes 3 to 7 business days to fabricate. The actual installation by our expert glaziers usually takes less than an hour per window.

Question 4

Can you install mirrors for home gyms and dance studios?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We specialize in large-format, wall-to-wall custom mirrors for home gyms, yoga studios, and Pilates spaces. We use professional-grade mirror mastic and safety clips to ensure a secure, distortion-free installation.

Question 5

Do you provide Riot Glass for commercial storefront security?

Accepted Answer

Yes, San Mateo Glass is a specialist in high-security glazing. Riot Glass is an invisible, shatterproof shield that protects businesses from "smash-and-grab" burglaries. It is much more effective than standard tempered glass and doesn't require unsightly bars or shutters.

Question 6

Why is there condensation inside my double-pane windows?

Accepted Answer

Condensation between the panes indicates a seal failure. When the hermetic seal of an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) breaks, moisture enters the gap, causing a "foggy" appearance. We can typically replace just the glass unit without needing to replace the entire window frame.

Question 7

What are the benefits of Low-E glass for Peninsula homes?

Accepted Answer

Low-E (Low Emissivity) glass has a microscopic coating that reflects infrared heat. This keeps your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, which is essential for energy efficiency and reducing utility bills in the San Mateo climate.

Question 8

Do you offer free estimates for glass and mirror projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer free, no-obligation estimates. For most projects, you can call us with rough measurements or send photos of the damage/project site. For custom architectural glass and shower doors, we schedule a professional site visit to ensure precision.

Question 9

What areas of the San Francisco Peninsula do you serve?

Accepted Answer

San Mateo Glass provides premier residential and commercial glass solutions throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. While our roots are in San Mateo, our mobile crews are active daily along the Bay, serving high-demand areas including:

• San Mateo & Foster City
 • Burlingame & Hillsborough
 • Belmont & San Carlos
 • Redwood City & Menlo Park
 • Palo Alto & Mountain View

We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured to operate across San Mateo County and the greater Bay Area, ensuring that whether you are a homeowner in Belmont or a property manager in an SF commercial hub, you receive the same expert craftsmanship and rapid response.

Question 10

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a window?

Accepted Answer

If the window frame is in good condition, glass-only replacement is significantly cheaper and faster than a full-frame replacement. You save on material costs and labor while still achieving the benefits of new glass (such as better insulation). However, if the frame is rotted, warped, or leaking air, a full replacement is a better long-term investment.

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