Have a crack in the glass stovetop? If you’re a cooking enthusiast, you know the importance of having a reliable stove. Glass stove tops are gaining popularity in recent years due to their sleek design and easy maintenance. However, one major problem that can arise with glass stove tops is the presence of cracks. A broken glass cooktop can be a safety hazard and impact the stove’s efficiency. In this article, we’ll discuss the causes of a crack in glass stovetops, the different fixes available, and prevention methods to keep your glass stove top in top shape.
Why does my glass stove top crack?
A crack in a glass stovetop can occur due to various reasons, such as follows:
Impact
Glass stove tops are susceptible to sudden impact or blunt force if subjected to cracks. Dropping a heavy object or accidentally hitting the stove top with a pot or pan can cause a crack.
Thermal Shock
Thermal shock is one of those prevalent reasons for a glass stove top to shatter. This happens when the temperature changes quickly. Placing a hot pot on a chilly burner, for example, might cause the glass to expand and shrink, resulting in a fracture.
Manufacturing Defect
A production defect can occasionally create a crack in a glass stove top. This is usually discovered soon after purchase and can be addressed by contacting the manufacturer for a stovetop replacement.
Fixes for a Cracked Glass Stove Top
A crack in a glass stove top can be a safety hazard and impact the stove’s overall efficiency. Luckily, some fixes can be done to address a crack in a glass stove top, such as the following:
DIY Repair
If the crack is small, DIY repair kits on the market may be used to mend it. These kits usually include a filler material that can be applied to the crack. Here is a step-by-step guide in bullet form for a DIY repair of a crack in a glass stove top:
- Purchase a glass stove top repair kit with a filler material designed for glass stove tops.
- Clean the cracked area of the stove top with a glass cleaner and dry it thoroughly.
- Prepare the filler material according to the instructions provided in the repair kit.
- Apply the filler material to the crack, filling it completely.
- Utilize a scraper or a putty knife to level the filler material with the surface of the stovetop.
- Let the filler material dry completely, usually for about 24 hours.
- Once dry, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface of the filler material until it is level with the surrounding glass.
- Clean the surface of the stove top again with a glass cleaner to eliminate any remaining residue.
On the other hand, DIY fixes may not be as dependable as professional ones.
Professional Repair
The most reliable fix for a cracked glass stove top is to have it repaired by a professional. A trained technician will assess the damage and determine the best action. Depending on the crack’s severity, they may repair or replace the glass stove top.
Prevention Methods for a Cracked Glass Stove Top
When it comes to a damaged glass stovetop, prevention is crucial. Here are some preventative steps to consider:
Avoid Thermal Shock
As mentioned earlier, thermal shock is one of the main causes of a crack in a glass stove top. Avoid placing hot pots and pans on a cold stovetop to prevent this. Use a trivet or a pot holder to insulate the hot object from the cold surface.
Handle with Care
Glass stove tops are delicate and should be handled with care. Avoid dropping heavy objects on the stovetop, and be gentle when placing pots and pans on the surface.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance can help prevent a crack in a glass stove top. Clean the stovetop regularly to avoid the build-up of debris that can scratch the surface. Also, inspect the stove top periodically for any signs of damage.
Need Professional Help? Contact Expert Viking Appliance Repair
If the crack in your glass stove top or rangetop is severe or you’re unsure how to repair it, it’s always best to contact a professional. At Expert Viking Appliance Repair, we have a team of trained technicians who can assess the damage to your valuable appliance and provide the best course of action. We can handle it all, whether Viking Stove Repair, Viking Range Repair, or Gas Appliance Repair! Book an appointment for your glass stove top repair needs!