Are you worried about the security of your home? Perhaps you’re tired of street noise or need better insulation. Laminated safety glass is an incredibly versatile glass option that has a variety of potential applications. But what is it, and how should it be used?
In this article, we’ll detail exactly what you need to know to understand laminated glass and its applications. From there, you can confidently update your home with your choice of stronger, more reliable glass.
If you’re interested in finding out more about laminated safety glass or to see if you can have laminated safety glass installed in your home, contact Eltham Glass today.
What is Laminated Glass?
Laminated glass, often called safety glass, is designed to resist impacts and decrease the chances of shattering. It takes two or more layers of glass with thin plastic layers in between. These plastic layers are usually made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) or polyvinyl butyral (PVB).
The plastic layers act similarly to glue, bonding the glass together more strongly. This means that when an impact hits the glass, causing it to break, it is less likely to shatter and instead remains intact.
The glass itself is also tempered, where it is heated and then quickly cooled to harden it further. This ensures that no single element is overlooked, creating a pane of glass that can resist most damage attempts.
Where Laminated Glass is Used
Along with its strength, laminated glass has several other properties that make it ideal for a variety of home applications. Here, we’ll outline not only the different ways you can use it but the additional ways it can benefit your space as well.
1. Doors and Windows
As with most glass applications, laminated glass is ideal for your windows and doors. Its strength can help protect your home against break-ins or flying debris, increasing your safety and security. However, that’s not its only benefit.
The thickness of laminated glass and its insulating qualities can help reduce the amount of noise and heat or cold that enter your home. This can help you increase your energy efficiency, all while enjoying a peaceful environment.
2. Skylights
Your skylight is often more exposed to the elements. Intense weather and flying debris can cause your skylight to break, leaving dangerous shards of glass scattered across your home. Laminated glass can help protect against this, ensuring your family’s safety.
Furthermore, laminated glass also comes with UV protection properties, making it an ideal choice for skylights. By reflecting UV rays, you can reduce the risk of the sun damaging your interiors or furniture, all while soaking up as much natural light as you would like.
3. Roof Lanterns
Roof lanterns are very similar to skylights in that they act as windows placed in the roof to increase natural lighting. However, it is their construction that differs.
A skylight is usually a flat pane cut into the roof. A roof lantern is designed as an elevated glass section, usually in the shape of a rectangular pyramid.
These are elegant and sophisticated additions to any home. While the shape may make them more of a target for debris, their strengthened layers ensure security is never sacrificed.
4. Balustrades and Railings
Laminated glass is incredibly versatile and durable. This means it can be used to create long-lasting and reliable glass railings. You can then rely on laminated glass to enhance the safety of your balcony, pool area or other outdoor areas.
This can also add significant character to the exterior of your home, as you can choose between tinted, patterned and even coloured glass options. Laminated glass puts security and style first.
5. Flooring and Stairs
Laminated glass can also be used for flooring and stairs. Its strength means it can hold up your body weight with no issues, so you can walk across it without fear.
This can add a stylish flair to your home, whether you’re designing a stunning glass staircase or a unique window into the lower floors. Perhaps you have a second storey overlooking your gardens– if so, glass flooring can open up your interior and allow you to fully take in the views.
Read related article: What Is Safety Glass? Laminated Vs Tempered
Enjoy Laminated Glass From the Diamond Creek Glazier Experts
Laminated glass is ideal, not just for security but for style, insulation, noise reduction, UV protection, and more. Every laminated safety glass installation needs to be conducted and fitted with utmost care to ensure these benefits are realised.
As your trusted laminated safety glass supplier, Eltham Glass will ensure that every pane is installed the right way every time. With decades of hands-on experience, you can rely on us to handle, deliver, and install your new glass with care, no matter its application.
To learn more about safety glass or organise an installation, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team and get started on your project.