Impact-resistant glass can handle heavy forces, yet won't shatter or break easily. It is more durable and safer than regular glass.
This type of glass could be the right choice for your business or home if your property is in a high-traffic area, a violent weather zone or an area prone to burglary.
Impact-Resistant Glass
Glass with an impact resistance coating can endure blows from flying objects, large hail or even a would-be burglar. This glass is made up of multiple layers of glass with various protective elements dispersed throughout to absorb and distribute the impact force.
How Impact-Resistant Glass Is Made
Polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) are examples of the robust, rubbery interlayers used to laminate multiple sheets of glass into impact-resistant glass.
It could have a single layer of laminated glass and a single layer of tempered glass, or it could have two layers of laminated glass and two layers of tempered glass sandwiched together.
Tempering the exterior layers of glass makes it stronger and less prone to shatter, while the inner layers absorb impact energy. When cracked, the glass will shatter if PVB bonding isn't there.
The Benefits of Impact-Resistant Glass
To keep your family safe and your property undamaged, you need glass that can resist break-ins, severe weather and accidents. Impact-resistant glass has the perfect combination of resilience, strength and durability to keep you protected.
In addition to being an effective insulator against both high and low temperatures, impact-resistant glass blocks ultraviolet light, reduces outside noise and helps make structures more energy efficient.
Impact-Resistant Glass vs. Traditional Glass
Strength, safety and longevity are all areas where impact-resistant glass excels above regular glass. When struck, impact-resistant glass will stay whole rather than break into sharp pieces, making it a safer alternative to regular glass.
You can choose from a variety of impact-resistant glass. Laminated glass doesn’t shatter into small fragments but tends to stick together after impact. Experts frequently recommend laminated glass for homes and storefronts.
Tempered/toughened glass is enhanced in strength through heating and rapid cooling, which causes the material to contract suddenly; this glass works well for windows and shower doors.
Wired glass is a type of glass reinforced with wires before heating, making it resistant to falling apart. Structures that require extra security and safety work well with this type of glass.
You can save a ton of money in the long run by using impact-resistant glass because it is less likely to break and need repairs or replacement.
Conclusion
Investing in impact-resistant glass to protect your property is a smart move because it enhances security, longevity and safety. You don't enjoy these same benefits with regular glass.
For tailored advice and to learn which options are best suited to your specific circumstances, see an expert. Call Raben Glass to schedule an appointment and receive additional information about the glass options available in your area.
