12 Types of Commercial Glass

If you’re a contractor or architect working on a commercial building design, you undoubtedly understand how selecting the best glass can make a significant impact on your bottom line. No matter the budget or business type, there’s a commercial glass option that’s perfect for you. These are the 12 types of commercial glass to know when planning your next job.

Types of Commercial Glass

Insulated Glass

Insulated glass’s primary design goal is to significantly reduce heat transfer and increase energy efficiency.  The multiple layers of glass add to the design element’s strength and durability. This increased strength is one of the primary reasons why insulated glass is commonly used in commercial and industrial settings.

Utilizing two or three panes of glass separated by a spacer, it is then filled with an inert gas to improve the energy efficiency of the window. The most common type of gas used in insulated glass is argon gas or krypton. Insulated glass is perfect for businesses that want to reduce energy costs and need a solution for reducing heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. 

Low-Emissivity Glass

Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is a type of energy-efficient glass that is coated with a thin, invisible layer of metal oxide. This Low-E coating helps to block the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) and infrared rays while still allowing visible light to enter the building.

The Low-E coating helps keep heat inside during the winter and outside during the summer, making it an ideal choice for businesses in colder climates. Low-E glass is also a great option for businesses that want to reduce glare and protect furniture and carpeting from fading.

Plexiglass

Plexiglass is a type of acrylic glass that is shatter-resistant. It’s often used in place of traditional glass because it’s safer and more durable. Plexiglass is a good choice for businesses that deal with potentially dangerous materials or for applications where shatter-resistant glass is required by law.

Laminated Glass 

Laminated glass is made by bonding two or more layers of glass together with a plastic interlayer. This type of glass is incredibly strong and is often used in hurricane-resistant windows. Laminated glass is a good choice for businesses that are located in areas prone to severe weather conditions.

Annealed Glass

Annealed glass is a type of heat-treated glass that is very strong and durable. It’s often used in bulletproof windows and windshields. Annealed glass is a good choice for businesses that need shatter-resistant glass.

Tempered Glass

Tempered glass is a type of heat-treated glass that is much stronger than Annealed glass. It’s often used in applications where safety is a concern, such as in shower doors and car windshields. Tempered glass is another shatter-resistant option.

Mirrors

Mirrors are a type of glass that is highly reflective. They’re often used for decorative purposes or to create the illusion of more space. Mirrors are a good choice for businesses that want to add a unique touch to their decor or for applications where space is limited.

Fire Rated Glass

Fire-rated glass is a type of heat-resistant glass that is designed to withstand high temperatures. It’s often used in fire doors and windows. Fire-rated glass is a good choice for businesses that need shatter-resistant glass.

Clear or Transparent Glass

This is the most common type of glass and it’s also the most versatile. Clear glass can be used for everything from windows to display cases. It’s also relatively inexpensive, making it a great option for businesses on a budget.

Tinted or Coated Glass

Tinted glass is perfect for businesses that want to reduce glare or protect against UV rays. It’s also a good choice for privacy purposes. Coated glass, on the other hand, has a special coating that makes it more durable and scratch-resistant.

Frosted Glass

Frosted glass is perfect for creating a unique look for your business. It’s also great for privacy purposes since it diffuses light and makes it difficult to see through.

Safety Glass

Safety glass is a must for businesses that deal with potentially dangerous materials. It’s also required by law in some areas, so it’s important to check your local regulations before choosing this type of glass.

Contact United Plate Glass Today!

At United Plate Glass, we work with general contractors and architects to help you find the right type of commercial glass for the job. Whether you’re replacing a storefront or building a hospital, our knowledgeable project managers stay current with the newest design trends and current products on the market. Contact us today to get started!

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