When selecting safety glass for an application, whether decorative or functional, two options typically arise: tempered glass or laminated glass. Both are of the "safety glass material" type, meaning they meet current safety glass codes and can therefore be used in interiors, side windows, railings and other areas that might be considered hazardous. However, tempered glass and laminated glass each have different advantages.
Tempered glass is also known for its durability and strength. In fact, tempered glass is 5 to 10 times stronger than traditional glass. Another advantage of tempered glass is how it breaks. Instead of breaking like traditional glass, tempered glass breaks down into tiny, granular pieces.
This property makes tempered glass safer than traditional glass, which is why it is often used in windows, doors and car windshields.
Tempered glass can also be found in glass block walls, glass skylights and glass coffee tables. Tempering makes the glass stronger than other glass and it does not produce shards, which makes this glass safer in the home.
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Tempered Glass
Laminated glass is becoming increasingly popular with homeowners and builders, and it has many applications in homes and businesses. Laminated glass is similar to the glass in a windshield and is designed to ensure durability and security.
Laminated glass is often used in entry doors, and its strength and durability make it ideal for this application. You may also see laminated glass in the popular glass floors seen in aquariums and some museums.
Another key advantage of laminated glass is that it blocks 99% of UV transmission, has noise reduction properties, can be cut and its edges can be polished after lamination, and delivery times are often faster because most glass stores carry laminated glass. Certain thicker, multi-layer forms of laminated safety glass can even be used as burglar and bullet resistant glass.
This is because laminated glass can withstand impact better than other types of glass, which is what is used in modern windshields. Laminated interlayers keep the glass structurally intact and prevent it from breaking like tempered glass. This is the key to effective airbag deployment and helps keep occupants inside the vehicle in the event of a collision.
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Laminated Glass
Therefore, for strength and breakage resistance, tempered glass is often the primary consideration. Laminated glass is often the product of choice for flexibility, UV resistance, safety and sound considerations. Both are considered safety glass materials and can be obtained in a variety of thicknesses and colors or tints. Both are easy to clean and maintain when installed correctly.
Remember, tempered glass cannot be cut. Once the glass has gone through the tempering process, puncturing the surface can cause the glass to explode. If tempered glass is used in a project, make sure all sizing is completed before the glass is tempered. In contrast, laminated glass can usually be readily cut and resized without problems, which may be beneficial for some projects.
Whichever type of construction you use, it is important to understand your options. Understanding the characteristics of tempered and laminated glass will help you choose the best option for each design element in your building, creating a safe, modern and aesthetically pleasing home or business.
Northglass is a leading suppliers of glass products, for more information about any of our products or to receive a quote today, please contact sales@chinanorthglass.com.
