Toughened vs Laminated Glass: What’s The Difference?
You can be forgiven for not realising the difference between toughened and laminated glass.
Most homeowners do not know the difference and more than likely, don’t know which, if any, they have.
In this guide, we aim to explain the difference between the two and how you can tell which one you have.
Toughened Glass
Toughened glass is manufactured in such a way that it improves the overall strength of the glass and is up to 5 times stronger than normal glass.
It is heated to a high temperate and then cooled rapidly to create a durable layer that can withstand impact and easily change with temperatures.
Why might you be interested in having toughened glass? Well, there are many factors to consider.
If you have bought a house in a high-crime area, investing in toughened glass to keep burglars at bay might be a good option.
Not only that but due to its high durability, toughened glass is sustainable and once you’ve invested in it, you may never need to replace the glass again.
However, if the glass is eventually broken, it shatters into smaller and more blunter pieces rather than the sharp shards typical glass breaks into. So from a safety standpoint, especially if you’re a parent, the toughened glass would be much easier to clean up once broken and less likely to cause any serious injuries as normal broken glass would.
Laminated Glass
Slightly different from toughened glass, laminated glass is specifically designed to stay intact when shattered. It is made of two glass panels that have a plastic component in the middle.
From a safety perspective, this is beneficial as it reduces the chances of anyone getting seriously hurt from the glass as opposed to the sharp shards that typical glass breaks down to.
Laminated glass is even better than toughened glass simply because of the plastic interlayer which holds the whole structure together, especially when coming under attack.
It is, therefore, a much better option than toughened glass from a safety and security perspective. Whether that’s for commercial buildings or private homes.
If you currently have toughened glass, we would highly recommend upgrading to the laminated glass to get the full benefits that come with the glass.
How Do I Know Which One I have?
Find the glass’ kitemark code on the window and you should be able to tell which one you have.
Laminated Code: BS EN14449
Toughened Code: BS EN12150
Where Toughened Glass Is Commonly Found
Due to one of the main benefits of toughened glass being incredible heat resistance, you most commonly find toughened glass in areas of heat.
These can be:
- Greenhouses
- Bathrooms
- Worktops
Where Laminated Glass Is Commonly Found
Because of the high durability and sustainability of laminated glass, it is most commonly found:
- Commercial buildings
- Properties
- Security glass
Get In Touch With BBL Windows
We can help you find out which glass type you have and if you don’t have either, get in touch with us today and we’ll do our best to advise you on which glass you should be looking to invest in.