Safety glass has gained widespread popularity and significance as a material utilized in both residential and commercial construction. It can be applied in various applications, including windows, glass doors, side panels, patio doors, shower enclosures, and conservatories. Given its ability to reduce the risk of injuries, it has become particularly prevalent among families with young children. This type of glass has also evolved as a necessary component of tall commercial buildings.
What is Safety Glass?
Safety glass, also known as tempered glass, was invented in 1909. Extra precautions are taken during the manufacturing process to make the glass less prone to breaking or presenting a hazard if it does break. Regular glass can shatter if struck or dropped from a sufficient height, but safety glass undergoes specialized processing to make it more durable and resistant to breaking when impacted by force. Additionally, if it does break, the fragments will be smaller.
Where is Safety Glass Used?
Areas designated as "critical locations" where a glass breakage could result in significant harm or injury utilize safety glass. Primary applications include windows at ground level, sliding glass doors, automotive windows, and shower/tub enclosures.
How is it Made?
A thin, flexible layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) plastic film is sandwiched between two or more glass sheets during manufacturing to create laminated safety glass. This plastic interlayer helps hold shattered glass in place should breaking occur, reducing the risk of injury from flying fragments. Alternatively, heat treatment processes are used to chemically strengthen glass sheets.
Why it is Important
This type of glass is crucial as it provides vulnerable individuals and environments a greater sense of security. In the unfortunate event of an accident, injuries would be less likely to result.
San Mateo Glass
At San Mateo Glass, we offer a range of services to facilitate the design and installation of custom glass solutions for residential and commercial buildings. Our team works closely with clients to ensure satisfaction at every stage, from initial design concepts through final installation. We carry a full portfolio of glass products, including translucent and fire-rated options.
All of our work adheres to applicable safety glass regulations and passes required inspections. Please complete our online contact form for more information on our services, or follow us on Facebook to stay updated. A member of our team will respond promptly.
