Window glass isn’t one type or size fits all. Homeowners and builders have a lot of types of window glass to choose from subject to the intent for the window, the location and attributes desired.
What Should I Know to Choose the Right Type of Window Glass?
Windows are more than they let on. A good window allows sunlight, field of vision and ventilation into your home while at the same time enhancing your home’s curb appeal and keeping your property and its contents protected.
Prior to making your decision, consider the following:
- The amount of natural light you want for the area
- The location of the window(s)
- The climate in which you live
- The general building design
- The type of window you wish for
Laminated, Tempered or Annealed
There are many various ways to manufacture glass. The way in which the glass is manufactured is going to impact multiple aspects, including how safe it is if it should break. Three very significant types of glass are laminated, tempered and annealed glass.
- Laminated glass is a kind of safety glass. It is produced by enclosing an inside layer of plastic (such as PVB) between two layers of glass. On impact, the glass sticks to the inner layer, decreasing the probability of injuries resulting from broken glass.
- Tempered glass is a kind of glass that has been strengthened via compression. Tempered glass is used extensively as a safety glass as it breaks into very minute, dull shards when broken.
- Annealed glass is a conventional glass type that has been cooled gradually. Not appropriate as a safety glass, as it breaks into big, sharp and variable shards.
Different Kinds of Window Glass
There are many kinds of window glass, each appropriate for a various residential or commercial applications. The following are 4 of the most well-known types:
- Insulated Glass Units
Insulated glass units are windows with 2 or more panes divided by a separator and sealed hermetically. The spaces between panes are filled with gas or air, such as argon or krypton, for helping insulate the window. These types of windows are renowned for their ability to decrease energy transfer between the inside and outside – keeping properties warm in fall and winter and cool in spring and summer. Double paned windows are a general kind of insulated glass unit.
- Low-emissivity (Low-E) Glass
Low-emissivity or Low-E glass is glass that’s been coated with a clear material that decreases the amount of light that comes through the glass. Low-E glass reflects sunlight, decreasing solar effect on the temperature of a property and decreasing energy expenses.
- Privacy or Obscure Glass
Privacy glass – glass that is reflective or that’s been obscured – is a perfect choice for bathrooms, offices or street facing rooms. This kind of glass enables sunlight in; however, safeguards you and your property from looky-loos.
- Impact Resistant Glass or Hurricane Glass
Hurricane resistant windows and doors are made from shock proof or hurricane glass. This glass is a type of laminated glass manufactured to provide safeguarding from flying debris. This type of glass decreases the dangers posed by broken windows, as the broken glass clings to the inside layer of the window(s) on impact.
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