Type Of Glass Used In Windows
Windows
play an essential role in our homes, providing us with natural light and ventilation while also keeping out the elements. When it comes to window materials, glass plays an important role in both aesthetics and performance.This article will explore the different types of glass used in impact windows, including their cost, strength, energy efficiency, and more. One of the most common types of glass used for impact windows is tempered glass. Tempered glass is created by heating regular glass to extremely high temperatures before rapidly cooling it. This process creates a strong and durable glass that is approximately four times stronger than regular glass. The additional strength makes it ideal for use in impact windows, as it can better resist damage from impacts or other external forces.
Although tempered glass is more expensive than regular glass, its strength and durability make it a worthwhile investment. Laminated glass is another popular option for impact windows. Laminated glass is created by sandwiching two or more layers of glass together with a plastic interlayer. The interlayer helps to hold the glass together if it is broken, which helps to prevent injury from broken glass and also improves security. Laminated glass also provides excellent sound insulation, making it a great choice for those looking to reduce noise levels inside the home.
While laminated glass is more expensive than tempered glass, its added benefits can make it a worthwhile investment. Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is also commonly used in impact windows. Low-E glass has a microscopically thin coating that helps to reflect heat and reduce the amount of energy lost from the home. This helps to improve energy efficiency and can help reduce heating and cooling costs. Low-E glass is also designed to reduce glare, which can be beneficial for those who spend a lot of time near windows. The type of glass used in impact windows can have a major effect on their cost.
Tempered glass is typically the least expensive option, followed by laminated glass and then Low-E glass. That said, the additional features and benefits that come with each type of glass should be taken into consideration when deciding which type to use. For example, laminated glass may cost more than tempered glass but offers much better soundproofing, while Low-E glass may cost more but offers improved energy efficiency. In addition to affecting cost, the type of glass used in impact windows can also affect energy efficiency. Low-E glass is designed to reflect heat and reduce energy loss from the home, making it an excellent choice for those looking for increased energy efficiency.
On the other hand, laminated and tempered glasses are less energy efficient but can provide added security and sound insulation. Different types of impact window glasses are also rated for strength and durability. Tempered glass has the highest rating since it is four times stronger than regular glass. Laminated glasses are also quite strong due to their plastic interlayer, while Low-E glasses are not as strong but still offer good resistance against external forces. As an example of how different types of impact window glasses can affect cost, consider a scenario where two homeowners are looking to replace their windows. Homeowner A chooses tempered glass windows while Homeowner B opts for Low-E windows.
Homeowner A’s windows will likely be cheaper due to the less expensive nature of tempered glass, but Homeowner B’s windows will offer better energy efficiency due to the Low-E coating. In summary, when choosing a type of window glass for impact windows there are several factors to consider, including cost, energy efficiency, strength, and durability. Tempered glass is generally the least expensive option but offers less energy efficiency than other types of glasses. Laminated glasses offer improved sound insulation and added security but tend to be more expensive than tempered glasses. Finally, Low-E glasses offer excellent energy efficiency but come with a higher price tag.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass is a type of glass made from two or more layers of glass bonded together with a layer of plastic.This type of glass has special properties that make it ideal for use in impact windows, such as increased strength and energy efficiency. The production of laminated glass involves a process called lamination. This process involves bonding the layers of glass together with a layer of plastic (known as a laminating interlayer). The interlayer helps to increase the strength of the glass and helps to improve its acoustic and thermal performance.
It also helps to protect the glass from shattering if it were to break due to an impact. The benefits of laminated glass for impact windows include increased strength and durability, improved energy efficiency, and protection against flying debris. Laminated glass is stronger than regular glass, so it can better withstand impacts, such as those caused by a storm or an intruder. The interlayer also helps to reduce the amount of UV light that passes through the window, which helps to keep homes cooler and reduce energy costs.
Additionally, the interlayer helps to hold the pieces of glass in place if the window were to break, reducing the risk of injury from flying debris.
Tempered Glass
Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that is made through a process of extreme heat and rapid cooling, which makes it much stronger than regular glass. It is commonly used in impact windows due to its superior strength and resistance to shattering. Additionally, it is more heat and scratch-resistant, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas. The tempering process involves heating the glass to its softening point, then quickly cooling it. This helps to create a compression on the surface of the glass, while tension is created on the interior.This process makes the glass four to five times stronger than regular float glass, making it resistant to impacts and helping to prevent the glass from shattering if it were to break. Because tempered glass is so strong, it can also provide better insulation, resulting in lower energy bills. Additionally, it can provide improved soundproofing and UV protection. Tempered glass is also scratch-resistant and corrosion-resistant, making it perfect for exterior use.
Costs & Ratings
The type of glass used in impact windows affects the cost in two ways. First, the type of glass itself will determine the price.Depending on the brand, size, and design of the window, different types of glass can vary in cost. Second, the type of glass can also affect the overall energy efficiency of the window, which can result in additional savings on energy costs over time. When it comes to strength and energy efficiency ratings for glass used in impact windows, there are several important factors to consider. First, the type of glass must be rated for safety by a recognized safety testing lab.
Second, the thickness of the glass should be taken into account. Thicker glass is generally stronger and more resistant to breakage. Lastly, consider the window’s resistance to solar heat gain, as well as its insulation value. These ratings will help you determine which type of glass is best suited for your needs.
Low-E Glass
Low-E glass, or Low-emissivity glass, is a type of glass that is designed to reduce the amount of energy lost through the window.It is a very thin layer of metal oxide applied to the surface of the glass that reflects heat, allowing for increased thermal efficiency. Low-E glass is made using a process called sputtering. This process involves depositing metal atoms onto the surface of the glass to create a thin, transparent film. The metal atoms are chosen based on their ability to absorb and reflect certain wavelengths of light.
This can be adjusted to help control how much heat passes through the glass. Low-E glass offers numerous benefits when used in impact windows. It can help reduce energy costs by preventing heat from escaping during winter and entering during summer. It also increases comfort levels by regulating temperatures inside the home.
Additionally, Low-E glass can block harmful UV rays from entering the home, helping to protect furniture and carpets from fading. In summary, Low-E glass is an efficient and cost-effective solution for impact windows. Its unique properties help to regulate temperatures, reduce energy costs, and protect furniture from UV damage. Choosing the right type of glass for impact windows is an important decision when making a purchase. Tempered glass is strong and durable, while laminated glass is better for safety and noise reduction.
Low-E glass is great for energy efficiency and cost savings. Ultimately, the best type of glass to choose for impact windows depends on individual needs and budget. Before making a decision, it’s important to understand all the different options and what each type of glass can offer. Doing research and talking to a qualified window installer can help ensure that the right type of glass is chosen for the job. For more information on impact windows and choosing the right type of glass, contact a qualified window installer today.
