Structural silicone glazing, also known as SSG, is a method of installing glass in a building's façade using silicone sealants. Unlike traditional glazing methods that rely on mechanical fasteners, SSG relies on the adhesion properties of silicone to hold the glass in place.
The main advantage of SSG is that it allows for larger, uninterrupted spans of glass to be used in a building's design, creating a sleek and modern look. The use of silicone also allows for greater flexibility in the design of the building's façade, as it can accommodate movement and thermal expansion caused by weather conditions.
Additionally, SSG is highly durable and long-lasting. Silicone sealants are known for their resistance to UV rays, extreme temperatures, and weathering, making them ideal for use in exterior glazing applications. The strength of the bond between the silicone and the glass also helps to protect the building from air and water infiltration.
While SSG is a relatively new technology compared to traditional glazing methods, it is becoming increasingly popular in the construction industry due to its numerous benefits. It is commonly used in commercial, institutional and public buildings, such as airports, museums and government buildings and provides a clear, durable and versatile design option that offers large spans of glass.
Overall, structural silicone glazing is a versatile and durable method of installing glass in a building's façade that offers many benefits over traditional glazing methods. It allows for larger spans of uninterrupted glass and greater flexibility in design, as well as increased resistance to weathering and UV rays.
One of the key benefits of SSG is that it allows for greater design flexibility. The use of silicone sealants allows for the use of larger, uninterrupted spans of glass, which can create a more modern and sleek look. This can be particularly useful in architectural designs that call for a lot of natural light or that want to create an open and airy feel.
SSG is also a very energy-efficient method of glazing. The silicone sealant used in SSG is highly effective at preventing air and water infiltration, which can help to keep a building's interior more comfortable and reduce the amount of energy needed to heat and cool the building. Additionally, the use of larger spans of glass can increase the amount of natural light entering a building, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
SSG is also a very safe method of glazing. The use of silicone sealants ensures that the glass is held securely in place, even in high winds or other adverse weather conditions. The strong bond created between the silicone and the glass also helps to protect the building from damage caused by broken or shattered glass.
SSG also allows the glass units to be much bigger and heavier than traditional methods, which opens a wide range of design possibilities.
In terms of installation process, SSG is relatively simple and straightforward. The installation process typically involves applying a continuous bead of silicone sealant around the perimeter of the glass unit and then pressing the unit into place. This can be done quickly and efficiently, which can help to reduce labor costs and minimize disruption to the building's occupants.
It is worth noting that, SSG requires a high level of skill and experience from the installer, to ensure the sealant is applied correctly and the glass is supported in the proper way. The sealant must be applied and maintained in a controlled environment as it is sensitive to moisture and temperature. Therefore, it's important to choose a reputable and experienced contractor when installing SSG.
Overall, SSG is a versatile, energy-efficient and safe method of glazing, which provides a range of design and practical advantages over traditional glazing methods. It is gaining popularity in the construction industry and offers architects and building owners an option of greater glass spans, design flexibility, and durability.
