When choosing the right type of glass for your project, whether it’s for windows, doors, or other applications, it is essential to understand the differences between tempered glass and laminated glass. Both types offer unique benefits and are suited for different purposes. In this blog, we will explore what sets tempered glass apart from laminated glass, their respective advantages, and how to determine which is best for your needs.

What is Tempered Glass?

Tempered glass, also known as toughened glass, is a type of safety glass that is treated with heat or chemicals to increase its strength. This process makes it four to five times stronger than standard glass. Here’s how it works: 

Manufacturing Process: 

Tempered glass is made by heating ordinary glass to over 600 degrees Celsius and then rapidly cooling it. This process includes compressive stresses on the surface and tensile stresses inside, making the glass exceptionally strong and resistant to breakage. 

Safety Features: 

When tempered glass does break, it shatters into small, blunt pieces rather than sharp shards, reducing the risk of injury. This makes it an ideal choice for applications where safety is a concern, such as shower doors, glass doors, and storefront windows. 

Applications: 

Due to its strength and safety characteristics, tempered glass is commonly used in automotive windows, glass doors, shower enclosures, facades, and as a component in various household items. 

What is Laminated Glass?

Laminated glass consists of two or more layers of glass with an interlayer, usually made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), sandwiched between them. This interlayer holds the glass together even when broken, offering enhanced safety and security. Key aspects of laminated glass include: 

Manufacturing Process:

Laminated glass is produced by bonding layers of glass with an interlayer under heat and pressure. The interlayer keeps the glass intact even if it breaks, preventing it from shattering into dangerous pieces. 

Safety and Security: 

The main advantage of laminated glass is its ability to hold together when shattered. This makes it highly resistant to penetration and provides additional security against forced entry and impact. It is often used in applications where high impact resistance is required, such as skylights, windshields, and hurricane-resistant windows. 

Sound Insulation: 

Laminated glass also offers superior sound insulation due to the PVB interlayer, which helps dampen noise. This makes it an excellent choice for buildings located in noisy environments, such as near airports or busy roads. 

Comparing Tempered Glass and Laminated Glass

While both tempered and laminated glass are safety glasses, they have distinct differences and advantages: 

• Strength:  Tempered Glass is stronger than laminated glass when it comes to impact resistance. It is ideal for areas where high impact resistance is required without the need for additional security. 

• Breakage Behavior:  Tempered glass breaks into small, blunt pieces, reducing injury risk. Laminated glass, on the other hand, holds together when broken, providing an added layer of security and safety. 

• Security:  Laminated glass offers better security as it is difficult to penetrate, making it suitable for high-security applications. 

• Sound Insulation:  Laminated glass provides better sound insulation compared to tempered glass due to the PVB interlayer. 

• Cost:  Typically, laminated glass can be more expensive than tempered glass due to the additional manufacturing processes and materials involved. 

Contact Hiegel Glass for All Your Glass Needs

Choosing between tempered glass and laminated glass depends on your specific needs and the application’s requirements. Tempered glass is ideal for situations where strength and safety are paramount, such as in shower doors and facades. Laminated glass, with its superior security and sound insulation properties, is perfect for applications requiring added protection and noise reduction.

At Hiegel Glass, we understand the importance of selecting the right type of glass for your project. Serving Conway and central Arkansas, we offer a range of glass solutions to meet your needs. For more information or to discuss your project requirements, contact us at (501) 327-7759. Our team of experts is here to help you make an informed decision and ensure the success of your project with the highest quality glass products. By understanding the difference between tempered and laminated glass, you can make an informed choice that ensures safety, security, and aesthetic appeal for your next project.