When it comes to residential glass, you have a lot of options. There are two main types: tempered and laminated. Tempered glass is stronger than laminated glass and can better withstand impacts from outside forces. This makes it ideal for applications like storefronts or doors that need to be able to withstand vandalism or impact from people walking through them—but not so great if you’re looking for something more aesthetically pleasing or traditionally used in windows. Laminate glass is more colorful and aesthetically pleasing than tempered but isn’t as strong as its counterpart. So what should you choose when shopping for residential glass?
What is the difference between tempered and laminated glass?
The glass in your windows is made up of two main layers: the outer and inner panes. The middle layer is what’s known as an interlayer, which is often made from a vinyl film that’s laminated to both surfaces of the glass (laminated glass).
The interlayer acts as a buffer between the two panes to reduce breakage during an impact or impact force, like when you bump into your window frame with your knee or close a door too hard on it. In this way, it can help lessen damage associated with broken and cracked glass. Due to its added strength, tempered glass has greater resistance to breakage than un-tempered or laminated window panes do—but it isn’t necessarily shatterproof. This means that even tempered windows will break if hit hard enough and with enough force; however, they are less likely than other types of windows (like laminates) to shatter into large pieces when broken
Tempered vs Laminate: Which is Stronger?
Tempered glass is stronger than laminate. The difference in strength comes from the thickness of the two layers of glass. Tempered glass has a thicker layer of glass, while laminate has a plastic layer between its panes of glass. The higher density and thickness of tempered glass means that it can withstand higher impact forces than laminate – but only when properly installed.
Tempered vs Laminate: How it Shatters
The difference between tempered and laminated glass is that the former is composed of two sheets of glass, while the latter has a layer of film sandwiched between them.
Tempered glass shatters into very small pieces, while laminated breaks up into larger pieces. The result is that tempered tends to be more prone to shattering in your hand when it breaks than laminate. If you want to be able to walk away from an accident with just a few cuts and bruises, then tempered might be your best bet (but only if your windows are properly installed).
Tempered vs Laminate: Cost Comparison
While tempered glass is a bit more expensive than laminated, it does have some benefits that make it worth the extra cost. Tempered glass has been reinforced, meaning it’s much stronger and more durable than standard flat glass. It also remains completely intact if it breaks—meaning no sharp edges to cut you or your loved ones.
If you’re looking for something that will last a long time but don’t want to break the bank, then tempered glass may be right for you! While laminated isn’t as strong or resilient as tempered, it doesn’t explode into dangerous shards when broken either. This makes replacing damaged windows much easier than with other types of materials used in window construction.
Of course, neither type of glass is “better” than the other, but it’s important that you get the right one for your needs.
As you’re searching for the best residential glass, it’s important to remember that tempered and laminated glass both have their advantages. While tempered glass is often more expensive, it is also stronger than laminated glass and has a lower risk of breaking in a shock or impact. Laminated glass, meanwhile, tends to be much more shatter resistant (but not completely shatterproof) than tempered—though it’s less strong overall.
The good news? Both types of glass can be used in both residential and commercial applications!
Conclusion
Now that we’ve covered the basics, it’s time for you to decide which type of glass is best for your home. If you think you can benefit from a stronger window, then tempered glass may be right for you. However, if budget or aesthetics are more important than strength, laminated glass might be better suited for your needs.