Ever wonder why some glass seems to splinter into sharp pieces when it’s hit, while other glass disintegrates into tiny, harmless pieces? The answer is safety glass. These glass products are specially treated to become stronger and shatter-resistant, which makes them ideal candidates for vehicles, storefronts, and other applications where shattered glass could harm people or property.
Here’s a closer look at the most common types of safety glass. Glass Source can help you find the safety glass that’s the right fit for your project.
Tempered Safety Glass
Tempered safety glass is three to four times stronger than normal glass and ideal for auto glass, shower doors, architectural glass doors, and glass furniture. It is tempered with heat and chemicals to strengthen it and change the forces acting on the glass surface. These changes cause tempered safety glass to shatter into small grains rather than sharp splinters. These grains make a bigger mess, but are far less likely to cause an injury.
Laminated Safety Glass
Laminated safety glass is a treated glass product that is able to hold its structure when shattered. Laminated safety glass contains a layer of strong, clear plastic, such as PVB, EVA, or TPU, between two layers of glass. This layer of plastic keeps the glass layers bonded when struck and prevents splinters of glass from forming. Common applications for laminated safety glass include windshields, skylights, exterior storefronts, and commercial windows.
Wondering which safety glass product is best for your project? The Glass Source team can explain your options and give you a recommendation. Contact us today for expert glass help.
