Have you ever heard a loud bang from the bathroom, only to find your glass shower screen shattered into tiny pieces? It’s scary, messy, and makes you wonder “why did my glass shower screen explode?”.

This article will walk you through what causes this to happen, how to stay safe, and how to prevent it in the future.

What causes a shower screen to explode?

While it may feel like your shower screen exploded “for no reason,” there’s usually an explanation. Here are the most common causes:

Tiny edge damage

Even the smallest chip or crack along the edge can weaken the glass over time. This often happens during installation, transport, or everyday use.

Nickel sulfide inclusions (manufacturing defect)

Sometimes, tiny impurities get trapped inside tempered glass during production. These impurities expand slowly and eventually cause the glass to shatter without warning.

Thermal shock

Sudden changes in temperature can cause stress in the glass, especially if it’s already damaged. While normal bathroom temperature changes are usually fine, rapid extremes can be risky.

Impact or vibration

Small knocks on the edge or strong vibrations (even from another part of the house) can trigger a break.

Improper installation

Glass that’s the wrong size, poorly cushioned in the frame, or handled roughly during installation is more likely to fail later.

Can you replace shower screen glass?

Yes, but it’s not a DIY job.

Replacing a glass shower screen should always be done by a professional glazier who:

• Uses top-quality, safety-certified glass.
• Handles the glass carefully, especially at the edges.
• Checks the frame, brackets, and seals for proper fit and support.

At Perwira, we supply and install a wide range of glass solutions including high-quality tempered shower screens. We also ensure all our installations meet safety standards and are properly cushioned in their frames.

Is tempered glass safe?

Yes! In fact, it’s safer than normal glass.

Tempered glass is four to five times stronger than standard glass and, if it breaks, it crumbles into small blunt pieces instead of sharp shards. This greatly reduces the risk of serious injury. However, tempered glass is more vulnerable to edge damage, so protecting the edges and avoiding heavy knocks is key to safety.

What can you do to prevent exploding shower glass?

Here are some practical tips:

• Inspect regularly. Look for small chips or cracks, especially around the edges.
• Avoid slamming. Close the shower door gently.
• Check fittings. Make sure brackets and hardware are secure and cushioned.
• Apply safety film. This can hold broken glass together if it shatters.
• Use professional installers. Skilled handling during transport and installation prevents hidden damage.

FAQs about exploding shower screen

Q: Why did my shower screen explode at night?
A: Temperature changes or hidden flaws in the glass can cause sudden failure, and many cases happen during cooler night hours.

Q: How common is this problem?
A: It’s rare, but well-documented. Hundreds of cases have been reported around the world.

Q: Can I keep using a chipped shower screen?
A: No. Even a tiny chip can lead to sudden shattering. For safety, replace it as soon as possible.

Q: Is laminated glass better for shower screens?
A: No, water can seep through the laminate interlayers and cause it to split.

FAQs about Perwira

Q: Does Perwira supply and install shower screens?
A: Yes, we provide professional supply and installation of tempered glass shower screens in Singapore.

Q: What makes Perwira different from other glass contractors?
A: We focus on precision, safety, and quality. All our glass is sourced from trusted suppliers and installed to meet strict safety standards.

Q: Does Perwira only do shower screens?
A: No, we also specialise in glass and mirror fixtures for residential, retail, hospitality, and luxury showcase projects.