Commercial and residential applications commonly require tempered glass installation. This type of glass is heat-treated, which makes it four times more potent than ordinary, annealed glass.
Engineers specifically design this glass to break into small pieces instead of large shards, making it much less harmful.
This safety glass manufacturing process involves heating the glass to high temperatures and rapidly cooling it through air blasts, solidifying the outer layer. While the interior layers cool down, they create tension in the outer layer. This guide will further discuss the uses of tempered glass in windows.
Tempered Glass in Windows
Choosing this safety glass for your windows is necessary when the window’s size and proximity to walking surfaces warrant it. This glass works well for commercial and residential applications., particularly in areas like stairs, ramps, and landings within a three-foot walkway. Here are the critical considerations for selecting safety glass:
- Is more significant than nine square feet
- It has a bottom edge less than 18 inches from the ground
- It has a top edge higher than three feet above the ground
- It has a walkway within three feet
Tempered Glass in Wet Places
Temporary glass windows are necessary since the risk of slipping is more significant in wet places such as bathrooms and saunas. All glass must be tempered if the bottom edges are less than five feet above the shower floor.
Moreover, all glass must be tempered if you have an outdoor hot tub, especially if the window’s bottom edge is lower than five feet, according to the International Residential Code.
Protection From External Elements
Ordinary glass is commonly prone to stress-induced cracks. If your region has harsh weather conditions, your glass windows may be easily damaged. However, tempered glass remains unaffected by tensile stress as it has increased resistance to impact.
Improved Security
Though huge bay windows add aesthetic appeal to any space, they can also attract unwanted attention. Burglars can easily break the glass and enter a building, which is a significant security concern, especially in buildings with valuable assets. However, tempered glass can’t be easily broken because of its superior strength and resistance against external forces.
Are you looking for safety glass windows? Contact our professionals at Quality Window and Glass Repair. Whether you need patio doors, interior French doors, or sliding glass doors, we have you covered.
Contact us today for emergency glass window and door replacement services through our website.