Hob Cracks – What to Do, How Much It Costs & When to Call a Pro
If you’ve just noticed a spider‑web fracture on your glass or ceramic hob, you’re not alone. Cracks happen for a few simple reasons, and luckily most of them can be dealt with without throwing out the whole kitchen. Below we’ll walk through why hobs crack, what you can safely fix yourself, and when it’s smarter to let a Rugby appliance expert handle it.
Why Hobs Crack
Most hob cracks start with a sudden impact – a dropped pan, a heavy pot, or even a heavy spoon hitting the surface. The glass is tough, but it’s not bullet‑proof. Repeated thermal shock is another common culprit. If you slam a cold pan onto a hot surface, the rapid temperature change can create tiny stress points that grow into visible cracks. Over time, everyday wear and a bit of wear‑and‑tear can weaken the glass, making it more likely to break under normal cooking loads.
Even the type of hob matters. Induction hobs generate strong magnetic fields that can stress the glass more than traditional electric hobs. Older models often lack the reinforced edges that newer designs have, so an old hob is more vulnerable. Knowing the cause helps you decide whether a simple repair will hold up or if you need a full replacement.
Fixing a Cracked Hob
First things first – safety. Unplug the hob or turn off the circuit breaker. A cracked hob can expose hot surfaces or electricity, so never start a repair while it’s still powered.
If the crack is small (under a centimeter) and doesn’t run to the edge, you can try a repair kit. These kits include a clear epoxy resin designed for high‑heat glass. Clean the area with a soft cloth, apply the resin following the kit’s instructions, and let it cure for the recommended time (usually 24 hours). The result isn’t invisible, but it stops the crack from spreading.
For larger cracks, especially those reaching the edge, a DIY fix isn’t safe. The glass can shatter under heat, and the repair won’t hold. In this case, replacement is the only reliable option. A new glass top costs anywhere from £120 to £250, depending on size and brand. Installation by a qualified technician adds about £80‑£120 to the bill.
When you’re budgeting, compare the repair cost to the replacement cost. If a professional repair quote is over £150, most homeowners find a new hob a better value. A fresh surface also restores the hob’s smooth cooking experience and eliminates any hidden safety risks.
Living in Rugby? Local appliance repair services know the common hob brands that show up in homes here, and they can source the right glass without long waiting times. A quick call can get you a same‑day quote and schedule a visit, which is handy if you need the kitchen back in action fast.
In short, a tiny crack can be patched with a kit, but anything bigger means replacement. Always consider safety, the age of the hob, and the cost difference before deciding. And if you’re unsure, a quick chat with a Rugby appliance specialist will clear things up and save you from a risky DIY job.
