Safety glass has grown in popularity for all kinds of construction projects ranging from business storefronts to windows to shower doors and patios.
When looking at the two options, both can be excellent options for residential and commercial businesses looking to increase the safety and security of their glass. but it depends on the application.
Read on to learn more about the best applications for laminated and tempered glass.
What Makes Glass “Safety Glass”
Safety glass is defined as a form of glass that is created using procedures that reduce the likelihood of it breaking. When safety glass breaks, it is designed to do the least amount of harm to anyone.
Safety glass is manufactured in a variety of ways. We will explore two of the most trusted types of safety glass: laminated glass and tempered glass.
What Is Laminated Glass
Laminated glass is made up of two or more panes of annealed or heat strengthened glass that are linked together by a layer of plastic, polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). This connection can be compared to making a glass sandwich (glass, plastic, glass). Multiple layers are used in some laminated glass varieties (think of these as a laminated glass layer cake).
Laminated glass features:
Features of laminated glass: Laminated glass can be transparent or tinted
UV radiation is screened by laminated glass
Soundproofing is made easier with laminated glass
In North America, the Sound Transmission Classification (STC) system helps construction projects determine the level of soundproofing required to have complete soundproofing. It is important for the glass manufacturer to strongly consider this grading when scoping out your glass project requirements.
One of the most significant advantages of laminated glass is that if it breaks, the shattered glass will adhere to the plastic rather than dropping to the floor.
Common uses of laminated glass:
Skylights
Glass Railings
Glass Facades
Glass Floors
Sealed Units
Patio Doors
Schools
Hospitals
What Is Tempered Glass
Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that has been strengthened with the application of heat or chemicals. Tempering is a term used to describe this procedure. Tempered glass, as compared to annealed glass of the same size and thickness, can be up to four times stronger.
Other advantages of tempered glass include:
Tensile strength is increased (it can bend easier without breaking)
Wind Resistance
Tempered glass shatters into rounded cubes rather than sharp fragments when it cracks.
Most common types of Low-E glass is able to be tempered
Large windows, skyscrapers, automobiles, electronics (laptops or phones), and in-home appliances all employ tempered glass.
Laminated vs. Tempered Glass Uses
As previously stated, there are several instances where laminated or tempered glass is preferable. In general, laminated glass is the best choice for security.
Commercial glass benefits from laminated glass. The additional layer of vinyl, or plastic, between the panes forms a difficult-to-break-through barrier, keeping your business safe from intruders and harsh weather.
Tempered glass is the best option for safe interior glass. Tempered glass is an excellent choice for use within your house. Glass for tub and shower doors is one example. It's simple to maintain and often less expensive than laminated alternatives.
Trust High Performance Glazing for your Tempered and Laminated Glass Requirements
For over 20 years, we've been professionals in various residential and commercial glass projects. We have a lot of expertise working with laminated and tempered glass. We can help you decide which one is best for your needs, whether they are residential or commercial.
We can meet your safety glass demands whether you're replacing windows, starting a new project, or building a custom solution. To discover more about our safety glass options, contact us now.
