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Importance of Sound Proof Glass Solutions in Offices

Noise-free interiors are a priority for offices since they are usually located on busy streets bustling with activities. Loud noises seep into the office space through doors and windows causing disturbances. This results in low productivity and efficiency of the employees and disrupts the daily operations of the business. Hence, cutting out noise pollution in office space is crucial.

Besides dampening the outside noise, ensuring sound insulation indoors is also essential. It is very important to keep the confidentiality of cabin discussions and conference room decisions. This is why installing sound insulating glass indoors is just as crucial. One of the top glass manufacturers, AIS Glass, offers high-quality soundproof glass to maintain privacy and ensure the peace and tranquillity of the office space.
Laminated glass has become an increasingly popular glass choice, both in offices and homes, for sound insulation. It is manufactured by attaching two or more glass sheets together with a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) in between them. This unique manufacturing process imparts various beneficial features to the glass. Together, the multiple glass panes and the resin sandwiched in-between prevent noise from seeping through, unlike ordinary glasses. Once installed in office, you can have clear and effective communication in meetings and conferences.
For maximum sound insulation, AIS Acousticglas is the ideal glass solution. This laminated glass type is meticulously designed to reduce noise pollution at offices and homes. The specialised PVB layer reduces noise pollution by up to 90% and hence, the glass type is widely used in boardrooms, partitions, and facades. For homes, offices, and shops in high traffic zones or near railway-lines and airports, AIS Acousticglas is very effective in minimising noise pollution.
Besides noise reduction, laminated glass is very sturdy and provides safety from theft and burglary. The PVB layer acts as an adhesive and holds the glass together when shattered, and prevents injuries from glass shards. Hence, it is widely used for security purposes. When laminated glass is installed in doors and windows, gaining access to indoors is very difficult for burglars. Additionally, when this window glass type is incorporated with uPVC frames, it enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space by adding a stylish and contemporary touch to the indoors.
Unlike the conventional wooden or steel doors and windows, laminated glass doors and windows allow sufficient light indoors and maintain peace and serenity of the office space.
In short, if you are looking for a multifunctional and economical option to reduce noise pollution at the office, installing sound proof glass is the ideal decision.

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3 Smart Ways To Incorporate Lacquered Glass In Your Home

Also known as back painted glass, lacquered glass is made by simply coating the back of the float glass using highly durable lacquer that is baked afterwards at a constant temperature in a furnace. As a result, the lacquer gets perfectly bonded to the surface of the smooth glass. Opaquely coloured in appearance, lacquered glass is a booming trend in the present time.  Incorporating all the features of float glass, lacquered glass has a wide range of applications. Be it renovating your kitchen or making your bathroom look more colourful yet sophisticated, lacquered glass is the perfect glass option for your varied requirements.
Here are 3 smart ways to incorporate lacquered glass in your home. Have a look –

  1. Wall Panels – When it comes to designing your house, lacquered glass is the perfect solution. Painting the walls is a repetitive process that costs more in the long run as well. Creating wall panels with coloured lacquered glass not only eliminates the need to paint but adds a creative look to the wall as well. Since they are durable, there are very little chances of breaking.

 

  1. Kitchen Cabinets – Adding lacquered glass to your kitchen cabinets will change the entire look of your kitchen. Versatile and easygoing, cabinets made using lacquered glass are definitely more practical than their traditional counterparts. A lot of house owners are usually worried that using glass in their kitchen cabinets would reveal all the contents of their kitchen and may appear cluttered. The best way to tackle this problem is to use coloured lacquered glass as it will not reveal the contents of your kitchen without compromising on the aesthetics. Moreover, you can use tuffen glass for the same purpose as well.

  1. FurnitureIf you are done with your boring furniture and want to give it a makeover, lacquered glass is just perfect for you. With superb finish and modern look, tabletops and other furniture made using lacquered glass are not only durable but also highly resistant to moisture, adding to its longevity.

Made using special manufacturing process, lacquered glass is also an environment-friendly alternative. Giving a new and fresh look to the interiors of your house, it exhibits brilliant properties like scratch resistance and colour adhesion. Furthermore, always buy this product from premium glass suppliers like AIS Glass who offer other types of glass like energy efficient glass, frosted glass etc. as well to ensure the quality.
 

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Incorporating Privacy with Smart Glass

Glass is an incredible material used widely in the automotive and architectural industry. In the architectural industry, it also allows light and heat to enter the rooms and living spaces. However, this exposure to the outer-world can be unwanted, especially for those who value their privacy more than others.

If your home is located in a crowded area, which is usually the case with big cities, you learn to appreciate even the littlest space and privacy that can be mustered. For such a situation, instruct your chosen glass manufacturer to install smart glasses to solve all the issues of violation of privacy. Along with that, smart glasses are available in a variety of colour tints. Hence, it will help to uplift the aesthetics of your house.
Smart glass can be used in partition screens, uPVC windows, roof-lights and doors, along with security and teller screens. They can even work as HD projection screens! As this material is so flexible, architects and designers are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to use them.
Smart glasses have many applications:

  1. Commercial usage

The electronic properties allow smart glass to ensure transparency and privacy at the same time. One can switch between an open and connected office space to a private meeting room simply by flicking a switch.

  1. Residential areas

With smart glass, you can add an element of personalization in your home. It gives people an option to choose regarding where they want privacy and where they don’t.

  1. Hospitals and Clinics

Smart glass is perfect for the medical sector. Hospitals and clinics incorporate smart glass to ensure both transparency and privacy in the open spaces, and prevent the use of unhygienic curtains.

  1. Security

Since smart glass has a property that allows it to reduce noise, it can make any environment peaceful. There are many circumstances where we need this kind of technology in all spaces. Additionally, the ability to switch from transparent to opaque glass and vice versa is essential for security purposes. It helps by acting as a barrier against forced entry and can even protect from blasts and fires to an extent as well.
Hence, smart glass is a great alternative because it offers privacy without any drawbacks and adds to the aesthetic appeal of the place.

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Daylight Analysis & Glazing Selection: A Case Study


Natural lighting is an extremely important part of any building – simply because it is beneficial to both comfort and energy efficiency of an interior space. Having ideal natural lighting inside a building can reduce the dependency on artificial lighting and create a much more holistic environment for rest, relaxation and work.
Yet, enabling the perfect balance of natural light within a building is not merely a function of using a glazing which will reflect heat and filter light. It depends on quite many factors, including the building orientation, the appropriateness of light diffusers installed, and also the kind of façades and windows in place. Thus, architect and building owners must conduct a thorough daylight analysis of any building in order to suggest glass that minimises discomfort and maximises visibility. Only after analysing the results of such a study can one opt for retrofitting buildings with low-E glass or going for a new glazing with the ideal U-value and SHGC.
This is what we performed for a corporate building in Mumbai.
CHALLENGE
A corporate building in Mumbai required an optimum glazing solution to maximize its VLT (visible light transmission) requirement without overdesigning the building.
SOLUTION
Going by the specifications of glass, one with the lowest U-value and SHGC would have been the right solution for the corporate building. Yet the solution was not so easy.
In order to determine the effect of various glazing variants on the building, a daylight analysis was performed. The two glazing variants simulated for the building were Clear Glass (VLT 78%) and high performance glass (VLT 21%). Both the glasses performed identically in terms of achieving the optimal lux levels. Clear Glass, in fact, caused glare in certain portions of the building.

As can be seen in Fig. 2, the first case is Clear Glass (VLT = 78%). The pink region shows the area which will have glare, and the grey region indicates sub-optimal lighting. The second case is high-performance glass (VLT = 21%). Here, we can see the reduction in glare area without reducing optimum lux level.
Thus, AIS recommended using high-performance glass in order to reduce cooling load without compromising on the lighting load.
RESULTS
From the study conducted, the following results were deduced:

  • The same fenestration behaves differently depending on the specific design.
  • It should not be assumed that products with low U-Value and SHGC are the best and universal solution.
  • For windows receiving a high amount of solar radiation, products with low SHGC would perform better. Hence, a glazing solution should be selected only after thoroughly analysing the building design.

As mentioned earlier, architects and glass manufacturers have to study various factors in building design before selecting the ideal glazing. An important factor is window orientation and area which allows ideal dispersion of daylight without causing glare or excess heat gain. It has been observed that south-facing windows let in the highest amount of daylight while north-facing windows let in diffused and reflected glare-free light. On the other hand, east- and west-facing windows let in direct sunlight, glare, and heat gain, which are difficult to manage. Thus, different glazing solutions are required for different orientations, especially in the kind of building mentioned in the case study.

Categories

Daylight Analysis & Glazing Selection: A Case Study

Natural lighting is an extremely important part of any building – simply because it is beneficial to both comfort and energy efficiency of an interior space. Having ideal natural lighting inside a building can reduce the dependency on artificial lighting and create a much more holistic environment for rest, relaxation and work.

Yet, enabling the perfect balance of natural light within a building is not merely a function of using a glazing which will reflect heat and filter light. It depends on quite many factors, including the building orientation, the appropriateness of light diffusers installed, and also the kind of façades and windows in place. Thus, architect and building owners must conduct a thorough daylight analysis of any building in order to suggest glass that minimises discomfort and maximises visibility. Only after analysing the results of such a study can one opt for retrofitting buildings with low-E glass or going for a new glazing with the ideal U-value and SHGC.

This is what we performed for a corporate building in Mumbai.

CHALLENGE

A corporate building in Mumbai required an optimum glazing solution to maximize its VLT (visible light transmission) requirement without overdesigning the building.

SOLUTION

Going by the specifications of glass, one with the lowest U-value and SHGC would have been the right solution for the corporate building. Yet the solution was not so easy.

In order to determine the effect of various glazing variants on the building, a daylight analysis was performed. The two glazing variants simulated for the building were Clear Glass (VLT 78%) and high performance glass (VLT 21%). Both the glasses performed identically in terms of achieving the optimal lux levels. Clear Glass, in fact, caused glare in certain portions of the building.

As can be seen in Fig. 2, the first case is Clear Glass (VLT = 78%). The pink region shows the area which will have glare, and the grey region indicates sub-optimal lighting. The second case is high-performance glass (VLT = 21%). Here, we can see the reduction in glare area without reducing optimum lux level.

Thus, AIS recommended using high-performance glass in order to reduce cooling load without compromising on the lighting load.

RESULTS

From the study conducted, the following results were deduced:

  • The same fenestration behaves differently depending on the specific design.
  • It should not be assumed that products with low U-Value and SHGC are the best and universal solution.
  • For windows receiving a high amount of solar radiation, products with low SHGC would perform better. Hence, a glazing solution should be selected only after thoroughly analysing the building design.

As mentioned earlier, architects and glass manufacturers have to study various factors in building design before selecting the ideal glazing. An important factor is window orientation and area which allows ideal dispersion of daylight without causing glare or excess heat gain. It has been observed that south-facing windows let in the highest amount of daylight while north-facing windows let in diffused and reflected glare-free light. On the other hand, east- and west-facing windows let in direct sunlight, glare, and heat gain, which are difficult to manage. Thus, different glazing solutions are required for different orientations, especially in the kind of building mentioned in the case study.

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Casement uPVC Windows: The Perfect Choice for Homes

If you are a fan of classic architecture, then you surely prefer casement windows above other types. These windows are hinged on one side, which can also be top (awning) or bottom (hopper).
While other window variants have their distinct features and advantages, casement windows have been quite a popular choice in the country for a very long time. And as window manufacturing technology has advanced over the years, so has the construction and functionality of casement windows. This is where the wonderful material called uPVC comes into the picture.
While aluminium and wood have been common window and door profiling materials, uPVC doors and windows have emerged, of late, as the perfect blend of form, finesse and functionality. uPVC is an industrial polymer that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also lightweight, strong and durable. And when uPVC, specialized glass, and casement windows come together, they form an unbeatable combination for your home. Let’s find out why:
Weather-proofing and longevity
Unlike wood or aluminium, uPVC can withstand moisture, heat, cold, rain, winds, etc. This makes casement windows made from uPVC resistant to corrosion, chipping, flaking, pitting, or peeling. They are also fire-resistant. All these factors make uPVC casement windows very durable and long-lasting.
Increased ventilation
Compared to sash windows, uPVC casement windows have an open-out hinge that allows them to open completely. This enables air to enter the building even if the flow angle is acute.
Low maintenance
Since uPVC is weather-proof, it requires very little maintenance. uPVC casement windows can be cleaned quite easily and the frequency of maintenance is also quiet low.
Heightened safety and security
uPVC casement windows feature security hooks and compression rollers for added safety. Also, the internal glazing prevents removal of window glass from outside. These windows often have a double glazing, thus making them intruder and breakage resistant while simultaneously minimizing heat loss. These security features are very difficult to find in other ordinary windows.
Heat, sound and dust resistance
Another advantage uPVC casement windows have over other windows made from aluminium or wood is that they do not develop gaps or leakages after a period of use. uPVC is an exceptional insulating material and provides an able barrier to external heat, wind, pollution, dust particles, etc. This can be further bolstered by selecting adequate glass for the window.
While selecting your favourite uPVC casement windows, do keep in mind the kind of window glass you are opting for. This will depend upon any specific functionality you desire from the windows, such as protection against heat, energy efficiency, noise-cancellation, or privacy.

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4 Types of uPVC Window Designs to Give Your Home an Enticing Look

The trend of using uPVC material in doors and windows has been on the rise, all thanks to the plethora of benefits it offers. uPVC material showcases a perfect blend of modernity and advanced features. It is a tough and durable material which is rot, heat and noise-resistant. It doesn’t require any high maintenance and can be easily cleaned using water and detergent. uPVC doors and windows have a huge success rate as apart from being durable and long lasting, they are reinforced with galvanized steel which makes them withstand adverse conditions easily.
The wonderful thing about uPVC is that it can be customized to suit a wide variety of window shapes and designs. If you want to impart your house that ethereal and awe-inspiring bespoke look, then selecting the right type of windows is critical.

Here are 4 types of uPVC window designs you can consider for the same:
Sliding Windows: –
Sliding windows are horizontal opening windows which provide great cross-ventilation and lighting options. They are easy to operate and provide unobstructed view of the outside world. They are also energy efficient, since they effectively block airflow from inside to outside and vice versa. Sliding windows aid in saving space too as they don’t occupy vertical space as in the case of normal windows. Your room will automatically appear larger if you choose them for your house.
French Windows :-
One sure shot advantage of French windows is ample lighting in your room. French windows usually have a frame that features window glass running through its entire length. Apart from lighting, they also make your house look spacious. They are most suitable for outer walls since they provide magnificent view of the outside lawns, gardens, pool or patio. They can be decorated with deluxe curtains and blinds to give your home a luxurious look.
Casement Windows :-
Casement windows are vertical opening windows fixed with side mounted hinges. They are one of the most widely preferred window designs. They can be opened widely and provide better ventilation as compared to fixed windows. Casement windows also provide high security since they are very difficult to break and their hook shaped locks are embedded within the frame making them untouchable from outside.
Two Sash Windows :-
These are made up of movable panels known as sashes. Two sash windows have been in use since ages and still continue to be one of the most popular choices especially in traditional homes. It offers a perfect blend of utility and attractiveness .It provides double ventilation benefit as when both the sashes are opened, it provides a way for fresh, cool air to come inside while letting the warm air to exit the room from top.