Glass is made by extremely heating and fusing sand, limestone, and soda ash. Other materials are also added to attain certain properties such as dolomite, calcium sulphate, silicates, and alkalis. Minerals are further added for colour.
Architectural Use of Glass
Apart from the applications of glass mentioned above, it is also popularly utilized as skylights, roof panels, floor, glass partition walls, and display shelfs. In many of these uses, architectural glass is chosen which is made of different colours, tints, thicknesses, and strengths. It can be ribbed, pebbled, and frosted. When using this architectural material, it is important to know your major options.
These include the annealed glass which is resistant to breakage due to thermal stress and impact. Another option is the toughened or tempered glass which offers excellent resistance against extreme temperatures and impacts. You may also consider the insulating glass which is made as double or triple glass to reduce heat loss and gain in buildings. It can be made of three layers with spaces varying from 6mm to 12mm. Finally, you can opt for laminated architectural glass that is made by joining layers of glass lites together bonded by a layer of plastic. It is this inner plastic layer that controls the heat, glare, and sound transmission.
If you need more options for an architectural glass such as reflective glass and films that can absorb solar radiation, you can seek our help. We have been in this industry for decades and we would be more than happy to assist with all your glass concerns.