The Different Types of Commercial Window Glass

 In blog, Commercial Windows and Doors NJ

Commercial window glass offers diverse options for energy efficiency, safety, and aesthetics. Choose the right type to enhance your business.

Windows are essential elements of a commercial building’s design, energy efficiency, security, and aesthetic appeal; they are more than just transparent barriers. Selecting the appropriate kind of glass is crucial since it affects everything, including your heating and cooling expenses and the security of your residents. Let’s examine the various options available as we delve into the intriguing realm of commercial window glass.

Energy-Saving Options: Low-E and insulated glass

Energy efficiency is a major concern for any business in the ecologically conscious world of today. A key component of this endeavor is Insulated Glass Units (IGUs). These units are made up of two or more glass panes divided by a sealed space filled with gas or air. By keeping your interior warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, this gap dramatically reduces heat transfer and lowers your energy costs.

Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Glass enhances the advantages of IGUs while advancing energy efficiency. The glass is coated with a tiny, transparent substance that lets visible light through while reflecting infrared light, or heat. This provides year-round comfort and significant energy savings by keeping heat in during the winter and out during the summer. It acts as an imperceptible barrier against extremely high or low temperatures!

Explore our comprehensive commercial window glass services today! 

Putting Security and Safety First: Laminated and Tempered Glass

Businesses cannot compromise on the security of their assets or the safety of their customers or employees. For locations where there is a chance of impact or breakage, tempered glass is an excellent option. It is four to five times stronger than regular annealed glass because it is subjected to intense heating and quick cooling during the manufacturing process. It drastically lowers the chance of harm by shattering into tiny, blunt pieces if it does break. For doors, storefronts, and other high-traffic areas, this makes it perfect.

Even more security is provided by laminated glass. It is made up of two or more glass layers joined by a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayer. Large, sharp pieces of glass are kept from breaking off by this interlayer, which keeps the glass together even when it breaks. This feature is a great option for applications that require security and locations vulnerable to hurricanes or other extreme weather conditions because it not only lowers the risk of injuries but also offers a strong barrier against forced entry.

Specialty Glass for Particular Requirements: Acoustic, Reflective, and Tinted

A number of specialty glass varieties are available in addition to the standard options to meet specific business needs. By adding color to the glass itself, tinted glass lowers solar heat gain and visible light transmission. This can reduce glare, increase interior comfort, and even give the outside of your building a unique look.

A substantial amount of incident solar radiation is reflected by the metallic coating of reflective glass. In addition to reducing glare and solar heat gain, this gives the exterior a mirror-like appearance, providing privacy during the day.

Acoustic glass is essential for companies that need quiet interiors or are situated in noisy areas. By effectively dampening sound waves, this specially designed glass—which is frequently laminated with a thicker or specialized interlayer—creates a more tranquil and efficient indoor environment.

Did You Know?

That glass was first used in architecture in ancient Rome? Around 100 AD, glass was used in windows.

Choosing the right commercial window glass is a critical decision that impacts your building’s performance, safety, and visual appeal. From maximizing energy efficiency to bolstering security and enhancing aesthetics, the options are plentiful. For expert advice and a wide range of solutions, call American Architectural Window & Door at (800) 495-8175.

Commonly Asked Questions

How can I pick the ideal kind of glass for my business building?

A number of variables, such as your budget, desired energy efficiency, security requirements, local building codes, and aesthetic preferences, will determine the best type of glass. Experts who can evaluate your unique needs and suggest the best solutions are always the best people to consult.

Is it possible to upgrade current commercial windows for increased security or energy efficiency?

It is frequently feasible to replace outdated single-pane glass with more energy-efficient IGUs, Low-E glass, or laminated security glass, depending on the existing window frames and structure. Without replacing the entire window, this can greatly increase performance.