Commercial and residential applications commonly require tempered glass installation. This type of glass is heat-treated, which makes it four times stronger than ordinary, annealed glass.
This kind of glass is specifically designed to break into small pieces rather than large shards that are much less harmful. The aim is to prevent injuries during an accident.
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
it is recommended for both commercial and residential applications based on the window’s size and its closeness to walking surfaces. This glass is commonly used in stairs, ramps, and landings within a walkway’s three feet. Choosing this safety glass for your windows is necessary when the window:
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- is bigger than nine square feet
- has a bottom edge less than 18 inches from the ground
- has a top edge higher than three feet above the ground
- has a walkway within three feet
Tempered Glass in Wet Places
Since the risk of slipping is greater in wet places such as bathrooms and saunas, tempered glass windows are necessary. All glass must be tempered if the bottom edges are less than five feet above the shower floor.
Moreover, if you have an outdoor hot tub, all glass must be tempered, 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 there are harsh weather conditions in your region, your glass windows may be easily damaged. However, tempered glass remains unaffected by tensile stress as it has increased resistance from impact.
Improved Security
Though huge bay windows add an aesthetic appeal to any space, they can also attract unwanted attention. Burglars can easily break the glass and enter a building. This is a major security concern, especially in buildings with valuable assets. However, tempered can’t be easily broken because of its superior strength and resistance against external forces.
Are you looking for safety glass windows? Reach out to our professionals at Quality Window And Glass Repair. Whether you need patio tempered glass doors, interior glass French doors, or sliding glass doors, we have you covered.
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