Whether you are renovating, building new, or updating a room or office – odds are, you’ll be incorporating glass elements in your project. While there are hundreds of mass-produced mirrors, shower doors, floating glass shelves, antique mirrors, colored glass, etc., most people want to incorporate unique pieces.
Let’s face it, while you cannot deny the convenience of purchasing a pre-made mirror or sliding glass shower door, this convenience only benefits a small percentage of projects. Nowadays, doors, ceilings, walls, staircases, tabletops, you name it… they vary greatly in shape and size. Thus, rendering a pre-made mirror or shower door no longer an option.
So, what do you do? Turn to your local custom glass shop.
Let’s dive into how to pick the best local custom glass shop for your project and budget.
A common misconception about using a local shop over a big-box store is that local is more expensive than the alternative. We’re here to tell you, that is not always the case. There are also invaluable benefits of shopping locally over big-box stores.
How to pick the best custom glass shop for your project and budget
The best place to start your search is our old friend, Google (or whichever search engine you prefer)! We always recommend starting here. Search engines provide a great overview of the business, hours, location, and what services they offer. Keep in mind that not all glass shops offer the same services. Some glass shops specialize in commercial glass, while others specialize in glass windows or auto glass. If you are looking for glass products for your home, we strongly recommend looking for a local glass shop that specializes in residential glass.
Once you find a few local options to choose from, take a look at their Google reviews. In case you didn’t know, these reviews cannot be “faked” unlike “reviews” you may find on a local glass shop’s website or social media page.
Most offer a free estimate which can be requested easily through their website, social media pages, or by calling or texting them directly!
Always be sure the glass company is licensed and insured!
Benefits of shopping local for mirrors, shower doors, and heavy glass products
Shopping locally for mirrors, shower doors, and heavy glass products benefits your community, economy, and overall customer experience.
Personalized Customer Service
Benefit:
- Local businesses prioritize customer relationships.
- Custom consultations tailored to your specific needs.
- Access to knowledgeable professionals who understand local building codes and styles.
Support for the Local Economy
Benefit:
- Spending money locally keeps dollars within the community.
- Boosts local job creation and sustainability.
- Encourages economic growth by supporting small businesses.
High-quality products and Craftsmanship
Benefit:
- Many local glass shops prioritize quality over mass production.
- Custom-built products, including mirrors and shower doors, are designed to meet exact specifications.
- Use of durable, high-grade materials to ensure longevity.
Did you know? Locally manufactured glass products often have better quality assurance due to direct oversight.
Faster Turnaround Times
Benefit:
- Avoid long shipping delays associated with large chains or international suppliers.
- Faster customization for unique projects, such as heavy glass doors or oversized mirrors.
Local businesses typically reduce lead times by 20-30% compared to national chains, depending on the product.
Reduced Environmental Impact
Benefit:
- Shorter shipping distances reduce carbon emissions.
- Many local glass shops source materials locally, lowering the environmental footprint.
The U.S. Small Business Administration highlights that local supply chains often reduce environmental impact by up to 26%.
Community Investment
Benefit:
- Local businesses often contribute to community events, sponsorships, and charitable causes.
- Building relationships that strengthen neighborhood ties.
Access to Unique and Custom Products
Benefit:
- Local shops often provide unique designs or specialty glass not found in large retail outlets.
- Perfect for custom shower doors, mirrors, or heavy glass installations tailored to your home or business.
Shopping locally for glass products benefits the consumer, the community, and the environment. Not only will you receive a superior customer experience (and many times, a superior product), but by supporting your local glass and mirror shop you are contributing to your community’s growth!