How To Tell If Glass Is Tempered

Tempered glass is often required by law for commercial buildings.

What is tempered glass?

Laminated glass. When laminated glass breaks the plastic holds the pieces in place so that it does not shatter at all. 

Whether it’s because your new smartphone screen is made of tempered glass or your newest client wants the strongest sliding doors out there, you probably have been hearing about tempered glass. All types of glass have different applications, and tempered glass is often used in products that are subjected to high heat or other conditions that would otherwise shatter standard glass. As a result, it is ideal for commercial interiors, showers, storm windows, or appliances like ovens.

How is tempered glass made?

Tempered glass is made by quickly heating and cooling the glass in order to change the structure of the material. This process strengthens the glass so that if it shatters, it breaks into even pieces that will not have sharp edges. This is why tempered glass is often called “safety glass.” 

Can you cut tempered glass?

When fabricating glass, it should be shaped and cut before it is tempered. The strengthening technique mentioned above should be the last step in the process because once it is tempered, it is nearly impossible to cut. If a piece of tempered glass is purchased and does not fit, it may be possible to shave off up to an 1/8” per edge, but beyond that, the size cannot be changed once the process is complete. As a result, it is extremely important to have the proper dimensions for the glass needed. 

Tempered vs. laminated glass

Another type of reinforced glass is laminated glass. The fundamental difference between the two is that laminated glass is not one piece of glass- it is two pieces of either standard or tempered glass with a piece of clear plastic set in between. When tempered glass shatters, it falls into standardized pieces that will not cut. When laminated glass breaks the plastic holds the pieces in place so that it does not shatter at all. 

When to use different types of specialty glass

Both laminated and tempered glass are considered safety glass, and either could be beneficial to your project. Laminated glass is more expensive and best for commercial use such as skyscrapers or glass railings. For residential use, such as in glass doors or screens, tempered glass would be better, because it is more cost effective and still provides a great amount of strength and breakage resistance. If you are still unsure which type of glass is needed for your project, check out our specialty glass and request a quote today.