What is the difference between toughened and laminated glass?
Toughened and Laminated Glass –
Whilst toughened and laminated glass are both a type of safety glass, superior to the standard variety, there are a number of key differences between them. They each have a separate set of benefits and, as a result, are better suited to certain domestic and commercial applications.
In the following blog, we examine these differences in more detail, taking a look at toughened and laminated glass, highlighting their individual features, qualities, and advantages.
Toughened glass
Also known as tempered glass, this is manufactured using a controlled thermal process. Essentially, this involves heating the glass in a tempering furnace until it reaches approximately 650°C, then removing the glass and allowing it to quickly cool.
The process is designed to improve the overall structural durability of the glass, increasing its resistance to heat and shock (by 400-500%). Therefore significantly reducing the likelihood of it breaking. Toughened safety glass is around 5 times stronger than standard glass. If subjected to high-pressure impact, it will break into small blunt pieces rather than dangerous pointed shards.
Tough and multi-purposeful, clear toughened glass is ideal for a wide range of domestic and commercial applications. For example, it is commonly used to create kitchen worktops and splashbacks, shower screens, glass shelves, internal partition walls and balustrades.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass is also known as a glass sandwich. Made from two panes of glass, with a PVB plastic interlayer. It is this unique construction that gives it its tough and reliable qualities.
Technically speaking, laminated glass is the same strength as regular glass. However, upon impact, the two panes simply shatter and are held in place by the plastic interlayer. The transparency of the glass is not affected in any way, and the triple-layer design improves its ability to withstand stress. Therefore making it a safe option for glass windows, doors, screens, partitions, walkways and more.
Which type of safety glass is better?
Due to the different ways in which they are constructed, toughened safety glass and laminated glass each have their own set of pros and cons. However, that doesn’t mean one is necessarily better than the other. They are both capable of withstanding high-pressure and heat, and can both be used for the same application. It just depends on your personal preference and the cost.
A third type of safety glass, called toughened laminated glass, has become increasingly popular with designers and architects alike. This product offers the best of both worlds, combining the strength of tempered glass with the unique construction of laminated. It is difficult to break, comes in various thicknesses, and it is perfect for both domestic and commercial use.
Toughened Laminated Glass at The Glass Warehouse (TGW)
TGW is a leading one-stop-shop for all your glass requirements. Stocking both clear and low iron toughened glass and toughened laminated glass. Our team demonstrate a wealth of knowledge with respect to both products. If you would like to find out more about these different types of safety glass, please get in touch. Either call on 020 8500 1188 or send an email to info@theglasswarehouse.co.uk and we’ll be happy to help.
