Commercial spaces are subjected to different requirements, legislation, and cost factors from domestic properties. So, when choosing glazing for your commercial space, you must do it head-on with your business. This involves considering key metrics such as safety, durability and expense.
This often means one key factor is choosing between toughened or laminated glass. Understanding which is the most suitable choice depends on the needs of your specific glazing project. Each offers a range of advantages and benefits according to the circumstances. Let’s look at the difference between laminated and toughened glass commercial glaziers use.
Strength and Durability
Toughened glass (TG): Also known as tempered glass, this material undergoes a heat treatment to make it five times more potent than standard glass. It is also very resistant to impact and thermal stress and is well suited to high traffic and partition areas.
Laminated glass (LG): consists of two or more layers of glass bonded together with an interlayer, usually polyvinyl butyral. Although it is not as impact-resistant as toughened glass, it does not shatter and holds together when broken. This gives it the ideal safety standards for shopfronts and other public-facing areas.
Safety
TG: One of the primary benefits is the breakage pattern. It shatters into small, blunt fragments rather than shards, reducing the risk of serious injury. This makes it an ideal choice for areas where safety is a concern, such as retail spaces, offices and balustrades.
LG: The interlayer feature reduces the risk of injury from falling glass and makes it a suitable option for overhead glazing, doors and areas where enhanced security is necessary. It can also withstand more prolonged pressure before breaking completely, making it more suited for burglar-proof applications.
Cost
TG: This is generally the more cost-effective option, thanks to a straightforward manufacturing process. That means it is generally better when large glass panels are required.
LG: This is typically more expensive due to its more complex production process, but there are added benefits, such as security and sound insulation. These properties can justify the investment, especially in glazing projects such as banks, government buildings and storefronts.
Thickness and Weight
TG: Lighter and thinner than laminated glass, this makes it a more suitable option for applications where weight constraints are an issue. The lighter composition also allows for easier installation.
LG: Due to its multiple layers, laminated glass is thicker and heavier, which means it may require a stronger supporting structure.
Applications in commercial spaces
As commercial glaziers will tell you, choosing between toughened and laminated glass largely depends on the specific requirements of a commercial space. Common applications include:
Toughened Glass
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Office partitions and interior dividers
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Retail display cases and shelves
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Glass doors and frameless glazing
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Balcony railings and balustrades
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Shower screens and glass furniture
Laminated Glass
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Shopfronts and security glazing
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Overhead and skylight glazing
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Soundproof office windows
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Public buildings and transport hubs
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Glass floors and staircases
If you are looking to strike the right balance, consulting our experienced team of commercial glazing experts can help ensure you make the best decision. To find out and discover more about how Alpha Glazing can help you with any of your windows, doors and glazing needs, get in touch with our team today!
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