From the standpoint of safety, both windows and doors are the most vulnerable entry points in any architectural unit. As a result, they are more susceptible to security attacks and intrusions. Not to mention, numerous glass manufacturers in the market promise unmatched quality and premier service but hardly deliver any.
Especially nowadays, when intrusions and thefts have become more commonplace, fears over security have become paramount. Therefore, the type of glass used in exterior doors and windows has become crucial in keeping our indoors safe from security breaches.
And speaking of enhanced security in residential and commercial spaces, here are the glasses that work the best.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass comprises two sheets of standard annealed glass fused together with a special interlayer of Poly Vinyl Butyral (PVB) in between. The resulting layered glass can easily resist impacts by absorbing impact shocks and resisting extreme degrees of penetration.
Consequently, any forced intrusions will be quite challenging to execute; this reduces theft attempts tremendously. In addition to improved security, laminated glass also offers additional advantages, as discussed below.
Acoustic Comfort
Given the levels of noise pollution in urban centers, the need for noise cancellation has become paramount. Fortunately, laminated glass can dampen outside noise for better noise reduction. Moreover, you can even request your glass manufacturers to include sound reduction interlayers in your fenestrations for additional soundproofing.
Solar Control
Combined with a heat-absorbing tint or low-E coating, laminated glass can reduce heat gain and bring down energy costs tremendously. Additionally, it also acts as a shield against solar glare. Based on the thickness of the glass, laminated glass can even resist harmful UV rays effectively.
Enhanced Visibility
Laminated glass surface usually has low visual distortions, so it appears virtually invisible. This allows the glass to reflect sharp images for greater clarity. Because of the enhanced visibility, laminated glass works exceptionally well for bay or picture windows, which many homebuyers shy away from over safety concerns.
Tempered Glass
Also known as toughened or safety glass,β―tempered glassβ―is highly suitable for external windows and doors. Because of a quick-cooling manufacturing process, the glass is highly durable and resilient to impact, making it less likely to shatter upon breakage.
As a result, this glass is a perfect choice for regions that experience heavy wind loads or thermal stress. Moreover, other than excellent impact resilience, tempered glass also offers benefits.
Heat Resistance
In comparison to ordinary glass, tempered glass offers higher thermal resistance compared to standard annealed glass. It can withstand high temperatures quickly, showing excellent heat control properties. As a result, you can enjoy greater heat insulation, as well as reduced energy costs.
Protection from UV Rays
Windows and doors manufactured with tempered glass can protect against harmful UV rays since it can absorb around 65% of the UV rays that fall on its surface. Additionally, you can also use window tints to improve the solar control properties of tempered glass.
Reduced Risk of Injury
Generally, tempered glass shows high resilience against impact, which is why many reinforced windows in both commercial and residential spaces use it. However, in case the glass ever breaks, the risk of injury is minimal as it breaks away in small, tiny pieces.
Heat Strengthened Glass
Heat-strengthened glass is a type of processed glass that offers better thermal resistance and is twice as tough as standard glass. Consequently, it befits security needs perfectly. Heat-strengthened glass also provides numerous advantages.
Unique Breakage System
Unlike other glasses, heat-strengthened glass cracks radially, from the breakage point to the edges of the glass, into large and sharp fragments. This creates a support system for the cracked pieces. As a result, it breaks into larger fragments that may remain in place but can still fall out.
Ability to Handle Thermal Shocks
Heat-strengthened glass can resist extreme thermal shocks and stress, which will typically break the standard glass. The glass can easily withstand thermal differentials of up to 130 βdegree Celsius.
Fire Resistant Glass
A type of laminated glass with a layer of intumescence, fire-resistant glass can easily withstand an extreme level of heat and prevent heat transfer. Primarily built to contain the spread of fire, the glass becomes a shield in unfortunate cases of fire breakouts. Fire-resistant glass also shows high resilience to impact and thermal stress.
Bottom Line
While these four glass types can efficiently minimise safety threats, investing in window locks, sensors or bars is an excellent way to enhance overall security. Designed specifically for safety concerns, these additional measures can help put your home and office security worries to rest.
Nonetheless, to secure superior-quality glazing solutions for your doors and windows, it is important to choose established and top security glass manufacturers such as AIS. We offer end-to-end solutions, from product selection and installation to after-sales support. Our specialised solutions, such as AIS Securityglas and AIS Stronglas, are designed to deliver both enhanced safety and aesthetic appeal. For further information, get in touch with us today!