What is Toughened Glass?
Are you looking for quality glass replacement in Canberra? Shane's Glass specialises in a range of glass types, including toughened glass, float glass, and laminated glass. Contact us today for a free quote.
When talking about glasses, we can't really distinguish which is which because of how similar they all are in their appearances. But if you will look closer, each type has its own properties.
Toughened or tempered glass has gained popularity among other types of glass because of the number of benefits it has. In this blog, we will find out what distinguishes it from the rest and why it stands out in today's architecture.
What is a Toughened Glass?
A toughened glass also known as a tempered glass is a type of safety glass that uses a distinctive thermal process to strengthen its properties. Unlike normal glass that can break or shatter easily, toughened glass is 4 to 5 times stronger than a laminated glass or a float glass.
Toughened glass is commonly designed for windows, doors, stairs, canopies, floors, shower screens, and railings. Because of its durability, safety and strength features, it is widely used in modern residential and commercial buildings.
Toughened glass can normally be delivered in glass thicknesses of 3 to 12 mm, while laminated glass can typically range by 5 to 12 mm.
Glass thicknesses varies based on their physical composition.
How is toughened glass made?
Toughened glass is usually created through a process called Tempering. The process starts with the glass intensely heated and then rapidly cooled to strengthen its properties.
Through these quick changing of the temperature, the glass surface and its sharp edges compress, resulting with a combination of a tensioned glass core and a highly durable exterior surface.
Properties of Toughened Glass
Versatility
Many architects and interior designers love using toughened glass because of its versatility. With a wide range of designs, patterns, form, and shape, you can use it on your windows, doors, shower screens, and many applications.
Strength
Toughened glass is built 4-5 times stronger compared with other types of glass, which means that it is harder and far stronger than almost every glass including laminated glass and annealed glass. The strength of a toughened glass is so high that it won't easily break amidst strong winds, direct human impact, and minor explosions.
Durability
On top of its strong features, toughened glass is highly durable as it does not require replacement even after long years of using it. Unlike laminated glass that breaks easily after being exposed to stress, toughened glass does not break easily under pressure.
Thermal Resistance
Toughened glass is a type of glass that can withstand extremely high temperatures of up to 250°C or 470°F. Since it has a high thermal resistance, it is perfect to use in kitchen interiors or in areas where heat is exposed.
Safety
Tempered glass or safety glass as they call it is specifically designed for safety purposes. This means that in the event that it encounters a strong impact and the glass breaks, the safety glass will shatter into small pieces instead of breaking into sharp shards just like what standard glass does.
If you are worried about your safety and security during calamities and disasters, opt for toughened glass.
Is toughened glass expensive?
Toughened glass may cost you more than a float glass or any other type but it is less expensive than laminated glass.
Given that it's a safety glass and it has several other features, its price may be worth your every penny.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Toughened Glass
Toughened glass may seem perfect but it also has its own share of disadvantages. Although this type of safety glass is designed to be lightweight, strong, and highly resistant to temperatures and calamities, toughened glass is unrepairable.
Unlike laminated glass and annealed glass that can still be cut and processed, toughened glass cannot be re worked. This means that when a part of it breaks, everything shatters.
Replace Your Glass Today
If you are looking for the best tempered glass in your area, Shane's Glass specialises in glass repairs, replacements, and installation in Canberra.
With over 45 years of experience in the business, we can help you find the best design for your needs. Send us an e-mail today for a free quote of our services.
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