Get matched with top glass and mirror pros in Thomaston, ME

While finding your mirror cracked can be spooky, there are actually many logical and common reasons why this happens. First, the mirror may have been mounted unevenly in the first place. Over time, poor mounting leads to stress points that will eventually cause a mirror to crack. Other common causes of a mirror spontaneously cracking include dramatic temperature shifts, strong thunder or a loud crash somewhere in the distance, exposure to heat and sunlight, and an uneven wall in your home. It's also possible that your mirror had a manufacturing defect or microscopic cracks that occurred during glass cutting or handling that eventually caused it to shatter.

The average mirror has a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. After that, the coating begins to deteriorate, losing its reflective properties. Acrylic mirrors have a slightly shorter lifespan of seven to 10 years. Higher-quality acrylic sheets with UV-resistant properties have lifespans similar to those of your average mirror. By maintaining your mirrors and keeping them out of direct sunlight when not in use, you can extend their lifespan. Some mirrors can last for decades.

Standard mirrors come in many different shapes, sizes, and thicknesses, so you can often find a great fit for your space without adding customizations. Custom mirrors are ideal if your space has very specific constraints. For instance, you may need a much longer or wider mirror than you can find in a standard mirror. You might also want a custom mirror if you have particular styling preferences, such as a frame with a specific finish or a unique edge.

You can add glass to your existing kitchen cabinet doors with a few tools and some patience. We recommend following the DIY steps listed above, which include cutting a panel for the glass, cutting and adding the glass, and reattaching your cabinetry. If these steps seem too complicated or you’d rather have the peace of mind of a professional installation, hire a cabinet installation pro to handle this project for you.