Preparing for Growth: Why Glass Fabricators Should Automate the Coating Process

As the single-family market is poised to return in 2024, glass fabricators will find themselves at the forefront of meeting the growing demand for high-quality, innovative solutions in the shower door market. From glass cutting and edge polishing to glass tempering and protective glass coatings, the significance of machine automation cannot be overstated. Labor issues continue to be felt around the industry, effects of inflation are still being seen, and faster lead times are becoming more and more imperative.

In the past several years, we have seen many glass fabricators invest in protective coating equipment to help solve their challenges. Automation integration in the coating process streamlines production and ensures a consistent and superior coating application. Here's why glass fabricators should consider embracing automation:

1. Efficiency and Precision

Automation significantly reduces manual errors and enhances precision in coating applications. By automating the process, fabricators can achieve uniform coatings, minimizing variations and imperfections that may arise in manual applications.

2. Cost Savings

An automated coating process reduces labor costs, decreases material waste, and minimizes unnecessary rework due to inconsistencies. These factors contribute to a more cost-effective and sustainable operation. We have seen current glass fabrication customers pay off their protective coating machine in less than a year, leaving significant room for growth and sales.

3. Increased Production Capacity

The demand for glass products in the single-family market is unprecedented. Automation enables fabricators to scale up their production capacity to meet these demands efficiently. Companies can take on larger projects without compromising quality or timelines with a faster and more reliable coating process.

4. Differentiates Your Glass Offerings

Amidst the competitive market, differentiating glass products has become essential for success. Offering a machine-applied coating on both sides of the glass enhances the durability and performance of the glass and serves as a unique selling proposition.

5. The Importance of Finding a Solutions Partner

When glass fabricators embark on automating their coating process, choosing the right solutions partner can be the difference between success and failure. That is why Diamon-Fusion International (DFI) puts great importance on being a strategic provider to your business. We have helped dozens of fabricators grow their glass coating business and work extremely hard to craft effective strategies, develop relationships with the sales team, and create customized marketing plans. As we say, “the coating is just the beginning” – we truly are invested in your success.