Window glass is made of different types of materials to provide different properties for the window. Some glasses are designed to block heat transfer, while others are designed to reduce sound transmission. The type of glass used in a window also affects the appearance and light transmission of the window.
Float glass was once the most common type of glass used in windows. It is made by floating molten glass on a bed of molten metal, which gives the glass a smooth surface. Float glass is clear and has good light transmission. These days, float glass has been replaced by safety glass in many applications.
Toughened glass is a type of safety glass that is resistant to breakage. It is made by heating float glass to its softening point and then cooling it rapidly. This process makes the glass about four times stronger than float glass. Toughened glass is often used in sliding doors, skylights, windows, car windshields and more.
Laminated glass is made by sandwiching a PVB (polyvinyl butyral) interlayer between two sheets of glass. The PVB interlayer helps to hold the glass together if it shatters, making laminated glass a type of safety glass. Laminated glass is often used in car windshields, skylights, windows and more.
Low E glass is a type of energy efficient glass that is coated with a thin layer of metal. This metal coating helps to reflect heat back into the room, making it ideal for use in climates where heating is more important than cooling. Low E glass is often used in double-glazed windows.
Reflective glass is a type of glass that has a metal coating that reflects light. This makes it ideal for use in hot climates, as it helps to keep the interior of the building cool. Reflective glass is often used in windows, skylights and more.
Acoustic glass is a type of glass that is designed to reduce noise transmission. It is made by sandwiching a layer of acoustic material between two sheets of glass. Acoustic glass is often used in windows, partitions and more.
Frosted glass is a type of glass that has a frosted or opaque surface. It is often used in windows and doors where privacy is desired. Frosted glass can also be used to create interesting architectural effects.
Mirrored glass is a type of glass that has a reflective surface. It is often used in windows, doors and more to create the illusion of space. Mirrored glass can also be used for decorative purposes.
Tinted glass is a type of glass that has a coloured coating. It is often used in windows and doors to reduce the amount of sunlight that enters the building. Tinted glass can also be used for decorative purposes.
Wired glass is a type of safety glass that is made by sandwiching a layer of wire mesh between two sheets of glass. The wire mesh helps to hold the glass together if it shatters, making wired glass a type of safety glass. Wired glass is often used in windows, doors and more.
Low iron glass is a type of glass that has a lower iron content than regular float glass. This gives the glass a higher level of clarity and purity. Low iron glass is often used in display windows, windows, doors and more.
Selecting the right type of glass for your windows is a critical part of the window installation process. Different types of glass provide different properties, so it’s important to choose the right one based on your needs. If you need help choosing the right glass for your windows, our team of experts can help. We have a wide variety of glasses to choose from and we’re always happy to answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to get started!
Troy Newman is the hard-working manager and glazier at Blitz Emergency Glass Replacement. He's a local in Central Coast NSW, and he's been a glazier for over 10 years. Troy is always willing to lend a hand, whether it's helping out on the jobsite or just being a good friend. He's got a great sense of humor and loves to tell jokes (even if they're not funny).
