FAQs About Tempered Glass

What is Tempered Glass?

Undoubtedly the safety of your family and home are top priorities. That includes being sure that all the doors and windows are secure. No one wants to hear the sound of breaking glass in the middle of the night, indicating some break-in or intrusion. One way to safeguard your home is to be sure the windows are made from tempered glass.

Annealed vs. Tempered Glass

The typical glass used in most windows and doors is annealed. It is glass that is cooled slowly during the production phase and is great for handling temperature fluctuations that we often experience in Ottawa. Tempered glass is rapidly heated and cooled, creating a more durable product.

Why is Tempered Glass Called Safety Glass?

Often called safety glass, tempered glass is what you find in most shower doors. This is more expensive, but the extra money is very much worth it. Tempered glass is known for its strength and can withstand being hit by a baseball or golf ball, while annealed glass will shatter upon impact.

When is Tempered Glass Required?

Building codes require tempered glass in areas where human impact is likely:

• Shower doors and enclosures
• Patio doors and sliding glass doors
• Glass near stairs or walking surfaces
• Glass panels within 24 inches of a door
• Windows close to the floor

Benefits of Tempered Glass

• Safety – When it breaks, it shatters into small, relatively harmless pieces
• Strength – 4-5 times stronger than regular annealed glass
• Heat Resistance – Better able to withstand temperature changes
• Scratch Resistance – More resistant to surface damage