Various Options Available When Contemplating Glass Replacement

A misconception that some homeowners have is that all glass used in and around their home is the same. The truth of the matter though is that the type of application for the glass is what will largely determine what type would be best suited for the job. This is why you will find glaziers in your area that offer you an array of options when you are looking to replace glass in and around your home. Here are some of the different options that you could consider when contemplating glass replacement. 

Toughened glass

Toughened glass is aptly named due to its inherent strength. This type of a glass is characterized by its increased compressive stress when compared to other forms of glass such as conventional annealed glass. One advantage of toughened glass is that it does not have to be thicker than regular glass. As such, you will not be compromising the appearance of your glass windows or doors by having to install thicker panes of glass. So how is this type of glass stronger? 

Toughened glass can be created in two ways. The first is by being heat-treated and the second method is through chemically treating the glass. Once the glass has been toughened, it is less likely to shatter into pieces when exposed to high impact. In the event that the glass does break, it does so in large shards that can easily be collected and disposed of. Toughened glass is ideal if you are looking to replace glass fencing, glass balustrading and even glass windows. 

Reflective glass

Another option you could consider when seeking the services of a glazier is reflective glass. This glass is typically manufactured by vacuum depositing a thin metallic coating onto the surface of the glass. This metallic coating not only protects the glass from superficial scratches, but it also works toward reflecting the radiant heat of the sun. This makes it a good option if you are looking for a way to keep your home cool by decreasing the amount of radiation that occurs through your windows. 

Another method employed in the creation of reflective glass is applying a pyrolitic coating. This type of coating is baked directly onto the surface of the glass. This is done when the glass is still heated so that the glass and the coating cool together. Reflective glass is suitable for homeowners who live in hotter climates and would like to cut down on their utility bills relating to air conditioning.