When considering an upgrade or replacement for your windows, tempered and laminated glass are two of the most sought-after choices. And for good reason! Both are strong and durable. So much so, that they’re both considered to be “safety glass,” capable of being used in hazardous locations (e.g. skyscrapers, windshields). Settling the laminated vs. tempered glass debate just comes down to your needs, preferences, and budget.
Laminated vs. Tempered Glass
Laminated Glass
Think of laminated glass as a glass sandwich, where two or more sheets of glass are fused together with a layer of plastic in between. This construction results in a thicker and more robust window, making it an excellent choice for enhancing home security. It’s commonly utilized in various applications such as entry doors, aquariums, sliding doors, windshields, and display cases.
One of the significant advantages of laminated glass is its behavior upon breaking. Instead of shattering into sharp fragments, the glass adheres to the plastic layer, maintaining its structural integrity. This quality minimizes the mess created by breakage and offers a vital safety feature, particularly in automobile collisions. Additionally, laminated glass provides effective sound insulation, as the multiple layers work together to dampen noise. It can also block up to 99 percent of UV radiation and significantly enhance energy efficiency.
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Tempered Glass
A specialized treatment process called “air quenching” enhances the strength and durability of tempered glass. Initially, the glass is cut and shaped before being placed in a tempering oven. It is then rapidly cooled using a series of air jets, a method that increases its strength to approximately four to five times that of regular glass of the same size and thickness.
A key attribute of tempered glass is its higher tensile strength compared to laminated glass, allowing it to flex without breaking. This property makes it ideal for high-rise buildings and areas subject to severe weather conditions. Should it experience breakage, the glass typically fractures into small, rounded pieces instead of sharp shards, significantly lowering the risk of injury. Moreover, tempered glass is often more affordable than laminated glass, making it an appealing choice for various applications.\
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Contact Glass West
The glass professionals at Glass West have replaced over 25,000 windows, screens, and doors in the Sacramento region since 1995. So if you have further questions regarding tempered or laminated glass, feel free to contact us or request a free estimate.