Did you know the first glass window was in 100 BC? The Roman Empire invented the use of glass for windows and blown glass art. They were still lumpy, and you couldn’t see through them clearly. But, the glass allowed light to come through and keep out pests.
The demand for residential glass has done nothing but grow through the years. But, with so many different types of glass available, how do you know what kind of glass windows fit your home?
Read on for the top five types of residential glass options available on the market.
1. Float Glass
To help you understand the different glass types, you must first grasp an understanding of float glass.
It’s a fragile glass made from molten glass. Molten glass is poured into a tin, which allows the glass to take on the shape of the larger glass panels.
Once the process is complete, companies use float glass to create the different types of glass for windows. It’s a type of foundation, but is too weak to stand alone.
2. Obscured Glass
Obscured glass is commonly found in bathrooms to create privacy without the need for curtains.
It’s a glass with etching, or beveled features, making it impossible to see through while allowing light to shine through.
3. Laminated Glass
To create laminated glass, press two pieces of float glass together on a thin layer of PVB resin, and you’ve made a laminated glass sandwich.
The two layers of glass with resin in between create a way to break without shattering. Laminated glass is perfect for vehicles and homes located in hurricane zones.
4. Tempered Glass
Tempered glass is another type of glass made from float glass. It goes through an annealing technique, which cools the glass very slowly to keep the pieces strong. To create an even stronger annealed glass, it goes through an additional process called tempering.
Tempered glass can break if struck hard enough, but it is too strong to be cut. If somehow the window breaks, the pieces are much smaller and less dangerous than a weaker type of glass. It is an excellent choice for your new replacement windows.
5. Low E-Glass
Low emissivity glass is a type created to block against certain waves of sunlight. UV rays which can harm our skin and damage materials in furniture or clothing can last much longer with low emissivity glass windows. They also create a type of insulation that helps keep the heat inside your home.
It is possible to buy low emissivity glass coating to add to your existing windows. However, to have the best protection against UV rays, search online for “window companies near me” and install new low emissivity glass windows.
Residential Glass Choices
Your home has its own unique needs, subject to the climate and area you live. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the right type of glass for your home and family. Some types may be cheaper to purchase, but it’s best to decide on this upgrade based on protection options and energy savings.
For more information about the different types of residential glass for your home, come back and visit our blog. We are updating it often with your windows in mind.