Glazing: Glass, Polycarbonate, Film or a combination?
The numerous and varied glazing choices that are available in todays world provide another challenge to determining ‘what is it you need?’
The numerous and varied glazing choices that are available in todays world provide another challenge to determining ‘what is it you need?’
The application of a film to glass in order to provide impact resistance, intruder resistance, blast resistance, UV protection and tinting is both simplistic and cost effective.
If your current glazing does not meet your requirements then changing the glass type might be possible
Toughened glass is the first step towards more resilient glass.
Laminated glass products are very common, and effective regardless of annealed or toughened makeup.
Polycarbonate was – and still is – a very resilient material, ideal for certain situations
Recent advances in technology have enabled the creation of glass/polycarbonate laminates providing strength, longevity and ease of maintenance
Protection against the threat of Fire?
Regardless of the glazing type, the frame needs to be of comparable strength and design. High performance glazing set into a weak frame system will not provide the performance resistance expected. Fully welded steel frames offer natural strength, durability and resistance to most types of threat.
The glass sits in a glazing ‘pocket’ to suit the glass thickness and is typically held with a frame flange on one side and a glazing bead on the other. Consideration to the window design, glazing method and bead fixings are important and necessary to achieving the desired end product.
Most products have been tested…or can be tested to mimic your project requirements. View recommended testing standards here.