Tempered Glass Windows in Residential and Commercial Buildings
Tempered Glass Windows are a popular choice in residential and commercial projects, not just for their aesthetic appeal but also for their durability. Nowadays, people are showing more interest in the type of material chosen for building—and as they should! The type of material you choose will affect the quality and look of the constructed building.
Tempered Glass Windows are made from tempered glass, which is different from normal glass found in buildings. How is tempered glass made? Regular glass is heated at 1000°F and then cooled down rapidly by using high-pressure air blasts. The tension and compression create a much stronger material than normal glass.
Tempered glass is not only used in buildings but vehicles, various products and high-contact surfaces as well. Let’s look into some of the properties of tempered glass.
LEARN ABOUT THE PROS AND CONS OF TEMPERED GLASS WINDOWS TO DISCOVER WHY IT IS A FAMOUS CHOICE FOR BUILDINGS AND MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION FOR YOUR PROJECT!
Characteristics of Tempered Glass Windows
Strength
Strength is one of the main reasons that contractors and estimators are now opting for tempered glass windows. It supports the structure of the house and also allows natural light. It doesn’t break as easily as normal glass.
What Happens if It Does Break?
Broken glass is a safety hazard for people. It is sharp and can cut through. Not to mention that the glass pieces may scatter far away. On the other hand tempered glass breaks into round-shaped cubicles that are not harmful to anyone.
Resistant to Scratches
Tempered glass windows do not scratch easily. That means that it can retain its smooth and clear surface for a long time.
Resistant to Heat
In addition to scratches and dents, tempered glass is also resistant to heat. It can withstand 300°C to 350°C. It takes a very high temperature to break tempered glass.
Compliance With Building Codes
Apart from the quality of tempered glass, another reason why contractors and estimators are choosing it is because of building codes.
Many commercial buildings are required to use tempered glass. Commercial Estimating Services always follow the local rules and regulations of the area so they are more likely to select tempered glass.
International Building Codes (IBC) states that tempered glass is not a matter of preference but a need. IBC is followed in several states across the US.
Perks of Using Tempered Glass Windows
Customizations
Tempered glass windows are not just for safety. It comes with a lot of style options as well. Do you want your windows to have a traditional look or you would rather pick something more modern? Windows made from tempered glass are flexible and versatile. You can mould them to fit into various types of architectural styles. Some common types of tempered glass windows include:
- Casement Window
- Double Hung Window
- Pivoted Window
- Egress Window
- Sliding Window
- Dormer Window
- Awning Windows
- Bow Window
- Jalousie Window
Energy Efficiency
Every construction building is moving towards becoming energy efficient. With skyrocketing electricity bills and environmental changes, people are shifting towards energy-efficient materials. It not only optimised the flow of energy throughout the building but also saved money and the environment.
Insulated tempered glass is a popular choice in residential buildings. Residential Estimating Services choose tempered glass to maintain a comfortable environment. It can regulate temperature. Its thermal properties reduce the need for heating and cooling systems. They allow natural light and reduce energy consumption.
Longevity
As mentioned before, tempered glass is 5 times stronger and more durable than regular glass. Its strength gives it an upper hand. It tends to last longer than regular glass, decreasing remodelling and maintaining work. Although it is slightly more expensive than normal glass, it ends up saving money in the long run. Due to its longevity, it is the preferred choice.
Low Maintenance
Since tempered glass windows are heat resistant that automatically makes them low maintenance. They are easy to clean, so specific equipment is required. They will appear to be new even after years, giving your building a fresh look. It improves mood and productivity.
Safety
Tempered glass is more safe than regular glass. It reduces the risk of injuries. They are widely used in hospitals, offices, nursing homes, houses etc. Families with children especially prefer tempered glass due to its safety features.
Material procurement also becomes easy. Transporting glass from one place to another is a hassle. There is a fear of breakage. Material Takeoff Services prefers to pick tempered glass as it also makes procurement easier reducing risks.
Drawbacks of Using Tempered Glass for Windows
We have already discussed some perks of using windows made from tempered glass but what are some of the problems?
- It will cost you more than regular glass.
- You cannot reshape tempered glass after it has been tempered. Any customizations and cutting needs to be done before.
- Although it does not break easily, when it does it will shatter as a whole which makes replacement expensive.
- If the installed tempered glass windows shatter entirely, intruders can easily come into the building.
CONFUSED ABOUT MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE? HIRE A RELIABLE COST ESTIMATOR AND USE THEIR EXPERIENCES AND EXPERTISE TO AID YOUR DECISION-MAKING PROCESS.
Other Uses of Tempered Glass
Tempered glass is not only used for windows. Rather, it can also be used for:
- Stairways
- Railing
- Doors
- Wet areas
- Tables and table tops
- Aquariums
- Skylights
- Elevators
- Shelves and cabinets
- Fireplace
To Conclude
Despite the drawbacks of tempered glass windows, it is still a popular choice among professionals. The pros outweigh the cons. If you are a homemaker or a property owner looking into types of glass windows, it is first recommended that you learn about local building codes and regulations. Non-compliance with regulatory codes could result in serious legal problems. This is why most stakeholders choose to hire cost-estimating services for their expertise on the subject.
