The safety glass

Many times private customers ask us to provide security glass, but what is security glass?

In this article, we will explain what safety glass is and where it can be used. To do this, we must first understand the different types of glass used in construction.

Float glass: Float glass is a type of flat, translucent, transparent or tinted glass. When it breaks, it can create dangerous sharp splinters, both large and small. This type of glass is commonly used in windows installed above a wall, for example, in windows that do not go all the way to the floor.

ESG tempered glass: Tempered glass is a type of glass that is heated and then cooled rapidly to increase its strength. When it breaks, it shatters into small, non-cutting pieces rather than sharp fragments. It is often used for doors and skylights.

VSG laminated glass: laminated glass consists of two or more layers of glass joined by an intermediate layer of plastic, usually polyvinyl butyral or PVB. This intermediate layer retains fragments in the event of breakage, reducing the risk of cutting injuries. Laminated glass is commonly used in safety applications such as parapets, skylights, full-height glazing and commercial windows.

TVG Toughened glass: Toughened glass undergoes a thermal toughening process in order to increase its strength. However, similar to float glass, toughened glass breaks by generating sharp splinters and, therefore, as a single pane, is not considered safety glass.

Bullet-proof glass: Bulletproof glass is designed to resist impacts from bullets and gunshots. It is used in high-risk buildings or in contexts where extreme security is required, such as banks and embassies.

Now that we know more about glass types, we can focus on what exactly safety glass is. In general, when we talk about safety glass, we can simplify the choice between VSG laminated glass and ESG toughened glass.

But where should we install safety glass? To help you understand, the UPI, in collaboration with SIGAB, has created a technical document that you can consult here: https://www.bfu.ch/it/consigli/vetro-in-architettura

Below, we present a very simple and intuitive diagram taken from the UPI document:

Now that you have a clearer overview of the types of safety glass available and their applications, you can make a more focused decision on choosing safety glass for your home or office. Remember that security is paramount, and choosing the right glass can make all the difference.