What is Toughened Glass?
Toughened glass is often referred to as safety glass or tempered glass. It starts as annealed glass that is heated and then rapidly cooled. It’s classed as a Grade A Safety Glass.
After going through the toughening process it becomes five times stronger than standard annealed glass of the same thickness. The toughening process also reduces the risk of cracking.
Toughened glass, when damaged, will shatter into tiny pieces so that anyone standing nearby will not be badly injured.
When it does shatter, be mindful when cleaning up that in some instances the glass can travel a number of meters in all directions.
Toughened glass is recommended in areas where windows require structural strength and safety such as elevation windows and large feature windows. Like laminated glass, toughened glass is also suited to areas of the home most prone to injury from human impact such as bathrooms, splashbacks, doors and full-length windows.
Toughened glass cannot be reused or re-cut once installed, something to consider if you want to have a pet door later. Alternatively, you can have the pet door installed prior to the glass going through the toughening process.
Advantages of Toughened Glass
- Suitable for when strength, thermal resistance, and safety are all important considerations
- Safer – if broken, the glass shatters rather than breaking into dangerous shards
- Physically and thermally stronger than regular glass
- Suitable for use in large openings
- Available in different tones and opaque options
Disadvantages of Toughened Glass
- Low E Toughened Glass option is not recommended for solar control when the winter sun provides natural heating
- Sometimes exhibits minor distortion
