FAQ
To help you make informed decisions as you start on your quest for new windows, a custom mirror, or any other glass product, we rounded up some of the most common questions we’ve been asked. If our FAQs still leave you puzzled, contact us. We’re happy to guide you through your glass quest.
Safety glass is either Tempered or Laminated glass. Many spaces require safety glass, such as in bathrooms, doors, overhead, etc. Since safety glass is more impact resistant, smaller projects may also benefit from using this type of glass. A good example of this is table top or shelf glass with minimum support. If you are unsure if safety glass is necessary for your project, we would be more than happy to assist you.
Tempered glass has been processed by controlled thermal heat to increase its strength and safety. If and when tempered glass breaks, it shatters into tiny round fragments (like auto glass) that are less likely to cause severe injuries. Tempered glass is often seen in or near doors, in showers, or if the glass exceeds 9sqft.
Laminated glass is made up of two or more sheets of glass bonded together with a polymer interlayer. Laminated glass is safety-certified because if it were to break, the interlayer will hold the broken pieces in place. Laminated glass is typically used in applications where human impact might occur such as skylights, exterior storefronts, curtain walls, and windows.
Annealed glass or “regular” is most often used for smaller applications like cabinet glass and picture frames. It can also be used in windows, table tops, and shelves depending on the specifications. Unlike tempered or laminated glass, annealed glass breaks into large, sharp shards and is not considered a safety option.
Insulated Glass Units (IGUs) are made with two glass panes that are hermetically sealed together with an air space between the panes to create superior insulation. Using IGUs for windows lowers energy costs, improves inside comfort, and decreases condensation.
Low-E (low-emissivity) is a thin, metallic oxide layer applied to Insulated glass Units that reduce the U-factor by suppressing radiative heat flow. Low-E coating will reflect heat energy from inside the room to help reduce energy loss.
Argon gas is a nontoxic, nonreactive, clear, and odorless gas fill that is placed in the air space of an insulated unit (i.e. double pane window). Argon gas provides measurable improvements in thermal performance.
No. Unfortunately, you will need to replace the entire unit. When one pane of glass breaks, it destroys the seal which prohibits the unit from insulating.
Yes, as long as the glass has not been tempered. We can fabricate non-tempered glass to your needs, such as resizing, adding edge work, holes, notches, and/or finger pulls. All fabrication done to your glass will be at your risk as we can only guarantee the glass we provide.
For projects that rely on ultra-clear glass, low-iron glass is the solution. Glass contains iron which gives it a natural green tint. The less iron, the less green tint, although you may still notice some green around the edges, especially in thicker glass. Low-iron glass can be tempered and is most commonly used for shower doors, aquariums, commercial glass doors, and shelving.
The shower unit should be cleaned weekly with a non-abrasive cleaning agent. Abrasive cleaners can damage the metal finish and/or scratch the glass. When cleaning your shower, avoid bleach or vinegar-based products as well as steel scouring pads.