At PureView Railings, we use only the best materials possible when it comes to glass railings. That’s why we opt for laminated glass over tempered. Laminated glass is much stronger and more durable than tempered glass, offering increased safety and longevity to ensure your railings stand the test of time. In today’s blog post, we’re going to explore why laminated glass is better than tempered glass!
What is Laminated Glass?
Laminated glass consists of two or more layers of glass bonded together with a durable interlayer, usually made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). This interlayer holds the glass layers together even if the glass breaks, preventing shards from falling apart and reducing the risk of injury.
What is Tempered Glass?
Tempered glass, also called toughened glass, is heat-treated to be stronger than standard glass. When it breaks, it shatters into small, blunt pieces to minimize injury. While tempered glass is widely used in many applications, it lacks the interlayer safety feature found in laminated glass.
Why Laminated Glass is Better for Glass Railings
1. Superior Safety
Safety is a top priority for any railing installation. Laminated glass offers enhanced safety because even if it breaks, the glass shards remain bonded to the interlayer. This significantly reduces the risk of falling glass pieces that could cause injury or damage.
In contrast, tempered glass breaks into small pieces that scatter, which can still pose a hazard, especially in homes with children or pets and in high-traffic commercial spaces.
2. Better Sound Insulation
The interlayer in laminated glass also acts as a sound barrier, reducing noise transmission. This makes laminated glass railings an excellent choice for balconies, decks, or commercial spaces where noise reduction is valued.
Tempered glass doesn’t offer this benefit, making laminated glass a more comfortable option for living and working environments.
3. Increased Durability and Strength
Laminated glass is more resistant to impact and penetration because of the bonding interlayer. It can withstand harsh weather, strong winds, and accidental impacts better than tempered glass, which can crack or shatter more easily under extreme stress.
This durability ensures your glass railings stay intact and safe for many years.
4. UV Protection and Reduced Fading
The interlayer in laminated glass filters out most ultraviolet (UV) rays, protecting your deck, flooring, or furniture near the railing from fading. This is an added benefit that tempered glass does not provide, helping maintain the overall appearance of your outdoor or indoor space.
5. Aesthetic Versatility
Laminated glass can be customized with tinted, frosted, or patterned interlayers, offering a wide range of design possibilities for your railings. This flexibility allows PureView Railings to create unique and stylish solutions tailored to your vision.
Conclusion – Why Choose Laminated Glass for Your Railings?
When it comes to glass railings, choosing the right glass is our first step. We opt to use laminated glass due to its superiority in safety and durability. Offering strength in multiple layers, laminated glass is the right option for you and your home.
If you are interested in learning more about our materials, contact us today for more information.