With so many types of window glazing available it can be hard to decipher which option is right for you and your home. When choosing the perfect window for your home, the type of window glazing is just as important as the frame design, colour, and style of window. The variety of different glazing choices all have unique properties, so choosing the right option can unlock many benefits for your home.
As there are so many options on offer, it’s easy to begin to feel overwhelmed. But there’s no need to panic, keep reading to discover the perfect type of window glazing for you. Below we’re going to explore 9 of the most popular types of window glazing, the benefits they offer, and whether they fit within your budget.
Float Glass
Float glass is used for smaller domestic windows with modern styles. Float glass is the most basic form of glass. It’s untreated and not cut, which means the glass is smooth, has no colour, and is much more affordable than other options. However, float glass isn’t as strong as other types of glass.
Named after the process of turning molten glass into large panels, float glass is created by floating molten glass on top of molten tin. Once formed, there are several ways to strengthen this type of window glazing. Annealing the glass helps free it from internal stresses, which creates a stronger form of glass. This process isn’t perfect, however, as when annealed glass breaks, it can split into large and sharp shards.
Laminated Safety Glass
Laminated glass is a type of safety glass that holds its form when broken. Constructed from two sheets of glass that are bonded with interlayers to create a permanent bond, this type of window glazing reduces the risk of breakages and the danger of sharp glass spreading across the floor. The interlayers hold and support the glass so that even when broken, the glass doesn’t present a hazard as it remains in the windowpane.
As well as the interlayers reducing the risk of injury if breakage occurs, laminated safety glass is naturally stronger than other types of window glazing. Laminated glasses are available in differing thicknesses, which makes them ideal for a variety of applications such as domestic glazing and vehicles. They also have unique qualities such as increased insulation and reduced emissions.
Obscured Glass
Obscured glass is a type of sheet glass that’s used to provide privacy to homeowners. Commonly found in bathroom windows, this type of window glazing is sheet glass that’s been treated to become translucent or opaque. Obscure glass protects the privacy of homeowners as only shadows can be seen through the glass. The treatment also allows you to imprint patterns on the glass to create a unique design.
Tinted Glass
Tinted glass is similar to obscure glass but offers even more privacy. Adding small amounts of metal oxide to the glass composition, allows you to modify the colour of the glass and reduces the sun rays that come through the glass. Tinted glass not only offers privacy but the variety of colours available gives more interior design options too.
Tempered Glass
Tempered glass, also known as toughened glass, is strong and durable compared to many other types of window glazing. Created through controlled chemical or thermal treatments, tempered glass is even stronger than annealed glass. In fact, tempered glass is four times stronger than annealed glass, while still being breakable in an emergency.
Insulated Glass
Insulated glass, also known as double glazing or even triple glazing, prevents heat loss reduces emissions and lowers your energy bills. This is one of the most popular types of window glazing found in many homes. Insulated glass is typically made of two panes of glass with argon gas in between the two panes. For any homeowner that wants energy-efficient glazing, insulated glass is the perfect type of window glazing.
Mirrored Glass
Mirrored glass uses a metal coating installed on one side of a pane of glass, which is fitted with a protective sealant, to create a mirrored effect. This type of window glazing is typically used on interior windows because of its decorative qualities. Whether it’s installed on cabinets or coffee tables, mirrored glass offers a unique style to homeowners.
Low Emission Glass
Low-emission (Low-E) glass uses a specialised coating applied to the glass to reflect thermal radiation. This keeps your home cool in the summer by reflecting away heat and UV rays and keeps your home warm in the winter by reflecting heat back into your home that’s trying to escape through the glass. While more costly than other types of window glazing, low-emission glass can be cost-effective as it reduces energy bills in the short and long term.
Wired Glass
Wired glass is fire-resistant, which makes them useful for commercial and industrial properties. Wires are fitted across the window to fit the glass in place even under high levels of heat. The wires also ensure shards of glass won’t break away from the window in the event of a fire where water is sprayed onto the window.
Why Northants Windows?
At Northants Windows, we’ve been installing high-quality UPVC windows and double glazing for years. Across Northamptonshire and the surrounding areas, we’ve helped homeowners install windows that transform their home’s design. Our team understands that every home is different. We treat every property differently, assessing your requirements, preferred design, and build and install windows that are the best fit for your home.
Discover high-quality types of window glazing today, get in touch with Northants Windows now. Call our team on 01604 946669 or visit our contact page today.