Replacing your old windows is always a wise investment. But, when selecting a replacement, you have some options to choose from. You can specify your windows’ level of insulation and energy efficiency, along with a number of other things that are important to consider.
One other thing you can decide is whether or not you’d like your new windows to be made of tempered glass. Tempered glass is glass that has gone through a special process to make it stronger and more durable than untempered glass. For instance, if tempered glass breaks, it doesn’t shatter into shards like traditional glass. Instead, it crumbles into cubes that are less of a safety hazard than the sharp shards of untempered glass.
What is Tempered Glass?
Tempered glass is strengthened through a heating and cooling process. Heating and cooling the glass makes it so that the exterior and interior surfaces are cooled at different rates. The center of the glass goes into tension, while the outer layers of the glass go into compression. This process results in tempered glass, which is roughly five times stronger than untempered glass.
Do You Need It?
According to building codes, tempered glass is only required near the entrance to a building. In other areas of a home or business, tempered glass is not required. However, it may be a wise choice to use tempered glass throughout your home or business. This will ensure that your windows are protected from cracking and breakage. In fact, there are many benefits to installing tempered glass windows:
Strong
Tempered glass is stronger than ordinary glass. Because of this, it withstands pressure that ordinary glass cannot. Storms and other natural occurrences of extreme weather, for instance, are not such a threat to tempered glass. If you live in an area that experiences tornados, earthquakes, or heavy storms, tempered glass is likely a wise investment.
Secure
If you’re concerned about safety and security in your home, a replacement window installation of tempered glass can be a good way to ensure extra security. While intruders may sometimes target windows for entry, they can only break untempered glass. Tempered glass, on the other hand, is not easily broken. Therefore, as long as your windows remain closed, they are less likely to be breached by a potential intruder.
Safe
Tempered glass does not break into shards like traditional glass. Instead, tempered glass crumbles in large pieces. Broken tempered glass looks like rocks or ice cubes. This means that it’s not sharp. The lack of sharp edges makes it a safer option for anyone who might come into contact with it. If you have small children in your home, tempered glass may be a good option for you. It also makes clean-up much easier and safer for the adult involved.
Retains Temperature
Tempered glass has high resistance, so it can withstand extreme temperature conditions. Furthermore, tempered glass windows are strong and sturdy. They’re a good option for replacement window installation, as they can help your home retain an ideal indoor temperature, cutting down on heating and cooling costs.
Contact Us
If you’re interested in learning more about window replacement, contact us. We are expert authorities on all things Windows, Doors and Glass. Contact us by phone or online for a consultation and more information. We look forward to serving you!
