Read more to learn when not to use non-laminated, tempered-only glass.In order to properly explain the instances in which non-laminated
glass poses a significant risk, let's first discuss the differences
between laminated, non-laminated and tempered glass.
Laminated Glass is created when two or more sheets of glass are bonded together with an interlayer, to create a single sheet of glass.
When damaged, the interlayer prevents the glass from completely breaking
apart.Tempered Glass is glass that is heated or treated chemically to
increase its strength. When broken, this type of glass separates into
granular chunks instead of sharp shards. Both laminated and
non-laminated glass are always tempered for architectural railing
applications.
With glass railings in particular, point-mounted glass railing systems and railings with compression clips should always include
laminated glass. "Point-mounted" means that the glass is mounted to the
posts and/or structure using through-glass hardware. When through-glass
hardware is used, holes must be cut into the glass. This process creates
weakened areas in/on the edges of non-laminated/tempered-only glass,
making the glass more likely to vacate the space in high impact areas.
Another rule of thumb is to never use non-laminated glass in any railings that are positioned overhead. Using non-laminated glass in
these types of applications could cause serious injury to those walking
below, in the event of glass breakage.
Although priced lower, tempered-only, non-laminated glass can be extremely edge-sensitive and create dangerous situations in a variety of
public venues and commercial spaces.
