When choosing glass, the application is often decisive: the function the glass must fulfil in that location. For every application there is a suitable type of glass. Below are the most common situations and the glass that fits them.
Application
Safety glass
At doors, balustrades and canopies the risk of breakage or fall-through is high. Here toughened or laminated glass is used: toughened breaks into blunt granules, laminated holds fragments to the interlayer. For roofs, laminated glass is preferred because it stays in place on breakage.
Fire-resistant glass
In fire compartments, special fire-resistant glass is used that holds back flames and sometimes heat radiation for a set period. Traditionally wired glass was also used for this.
Acoustic glass
To reduce noise along busy roads or railways, insulating glass with a thicker or asymmetric build-up and an acoustic laminated pane is used.
Insulating glass (windows and facades)
For thermal insulation in windows and facades, insulating glass (double or triple glazing) is used, often with a coating and gas fill for a low U-value.
Solar-control glass
On south-facing facades or large glazed areas, solar-control glass with a coating limits heat gain while still transmitting light.
Decorative glass
For atmosphere and privacy, figured glass, leaded glass and sandblasted or printed glass are used.
Related terms
- glass
- building glass
- glazing
- wired glass
- figured glass
- leaded glass
Learn more about building terms in our knowledge base at fredsdiyplans.com.