Frequently Asked
Questions
As industry leaders in the commercial glass and aluminum sectors, we possess the knowledge, expertise, and innovative thinking required to meet your every need.
Heat Strengthened Glass
Glass can be strengthened through thermal tempering, where the glass is heated and then rapidly cooled to create compressive stress on the surface, or through chemical strengthening, where the glass is immersed in a molten salt bath and exchanged with larger ions to increase its strength.
Heat-strengthened glass has improved fire resistance compared to annealed glass, but it is not as fire-resistant as fully tempered or laminated glass.
Tempered Glass
One way to identify tempered glass is to look for small, square-shaped marks called “temper spots” on the surface of the glass.
Tempered glass is very durable and can withstand significant impacts without breaking.
Insulated Glass
The purpose of insulating glass is to improve energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer through windows and helping to maintain a more consistent indoor temperature.
The life expectancy of insulating glass can vary depending on factors such as quality of materials and installation, but a well-maintained insulated glass unit can last 20 years or more.
Low E Glass
Low-E glass helps to reduce heat transfer and improve energy efficiency by reflecting heat back into the room during winter and blocking heat from entering during summer.
Low-E grade glass refers to glass that has a low-emissivity coating applied to it, which helps to enhance its energy-saving properties.
Fire-Rated Glass
Fire ratings for glass are determined based on the duration of time that the glass can withstand exposure to fire. The most common fire ratings for glass include 20 minutes, 45 minutes, 60 minutes, 90 minutes, and 120 minutes. These ratings indicate the amount of time the glass can maintain its integrity and prevent the spread of fire.
The cost of fire-rated glass can vary depending on several factors, including the type of fire rating, size, thickness, and any additional features or customization. It is best to consult with suppliers or contractors to obtain accurate pricing information based on specific project requirements.
Monolithic Glass
Monolithic glass is a single pane of glass, while IGU (Insulated Glass Unit) consists of two or more panes of glass separated by a spacer.
Monolithic glass can range in thickness from 2mm to 25mm or more, depending on the application.
Spandrel Glass
Spandrel glass is opaque and typically has a ceramic frit coating to conceal the building’s structural elements and building systems.
Spandrel glass provides thermal insulation, sound insulation, and UV protection. It also adds aesthetic appeal to a building by creating a uniform appearance.
Laminated Glass
The lifespan of laminated glass can vary depending on various factors, but it is generally expected to last for at least 20-30 years.
The thickness of laminated glass can vary depending on the intended use, but it is generally recommended to use a minimum thickness of 6 mm for safety and security.
Point Supported Glass
A point-supported glass system, also known as a spider glass system, is a type of curtain wall system that uses small stainless-steel fittings to hold glass panels in place.
It works through mechanical fasteners or fittings that directly connect the glass panels to the building’s structure, allowing load transfer and stability.