In the double-glazing industry, there are mainly two types of glass used: standard glass and toughened glass. The thickness of each glass in double glazing 4mm and total double-glazing unit thickness may vary up to 20mm including spacer etc.
The standard glass is widely used in double glazing unless it is a requirement by law or client’s preference to use a toughened glass. Standard glass is the cheapest option for double glazing units. It is quite strong and difficult to break. It is not recommended in the double-glazed units where the safety is required by law.
The second most used glass in double-glazing is called toughened glass. It is more expensive and tougher than the standard glass. The main difference between these 2 glasses is how they break.
The toughened glass shattered into small pieces, so it doesn’t cause injuries when it breaks. Due to these extra safety features, it is more expensive than the standard glass.
The third type of glass used is tempered glass. It provides more security when it breaks. It is called laminated glass as well. When the glass breaks it remains in the shape because of the way it is made. It doesn’t fall. It is more secure and very tough to break.
The way each of the glass breaks:
Other glass options in double glazing windows and doors:
Reflective glass: This glass called coated glass as well. It is a very good tool for those who want to have more privacy and natural light at the same time. As the name suggests it is not possible to see through from the outside where the coat is applied.
It is widely used in the houses on the main road with a high footfall. They work like a mirror from the outside.
Self-cleaning glass – cleaning full house windows and doors can be very time-consuming. On the upper floors, it is hard to reach some areas, such as glass roofs and conservatories can be very hard if not dangerous.
The new technology of self-cleaning glass can sort out all these cleaning issues and can make life easier. The self-cleaning glass needs low maintenance.
Acoustic glass (noise reduction)- The acoustic glass considerably reduces outside noise. This type of glass is installed near airport areas and motorways areas. #
The areas such as Heathrow, Hounslow, Feltham are near to airports and areas such as Wembley, Richmond which are very close to big motorways have high levels of noise.
