Tempered glass panels are much stronger than regular glass and have a variety of uses. This article lists the various properties and uses of this glass.
When used in any setting for the purpose of design, glass looks absolutely luxurious. With its clarity and sleekness, glass can make your home look gorgeous. Choosing the type of glass based on the area you are going to use it in is also important. You don’t want to keep banging into it and breaking it, thereby causing harm to yourself and the people around you. Tempered glass, also known as toughened glass, is made to deal with this problem. Such glass is used in strategic locations to withstand rough use since it is not easily breakable.
Properties
Tempered glass is a tough glass with greater thickness than regular glass. It is also much stronger, which is why it is used as an alternative to the regular type for safety reasons. Also known as a laminated safety glass, these glass panels are prepared by a unique procedure. A thin plastic film is sandwiched between two layers of glass. The glass is first heated and then cooled immediately under controlled settings, so that it hardens and strengthens. This manufacturing process gives tempered glass the following properties.
- It is about five to ten times stronger than regular glass, and is more heat and cold resistant in comparison.
- These glass panels are prepared in specific sizes as cutting them will cause them to shatter.
- In comparison to regular glass, this glass is safer even when it breaks. When it shatters, it breaks into oval-shaped pieces and not sharp shards.
- Such glass also cannot be penetrated easily, which is why it is used for the facades of banks and other important organizations.
- This glass can also withstand strong movement caused by earthquakes.
Uses
Because of its properties, tough glass is used for a variety of purposes.
- One of the most common uses of the panels is for shower enclosures. This is particularly true in case of sliding glass doors as they require a lot of movement and regular glass is prone to shattering.
- This glass may be used for windows. It is used for facades in building and construction, and also for greenhouse construction.
- The panels can be used for decks and patios in the form of a railing. Because of their strength and ability to handle rough use, they are a great choice that allow for both form and function in an exterior setting.
- In offices, glass doors for cubicles and cabins are also usually made of toughened glass.
- The concept of indoor glass fireplaces has become very popular. Tempered glass is used for such elements indoors.
Always consult the person you are purchasing these glass panels from. He/she will tell you whether it is suitable for your purpose or not. These glass sheets have to be made to order. The panels cost much more than regular glass panels, however keep in mind the benefits you are getting in return; greater strength and durability, along with the look and beauty of glass.
