Custom glass comes in many shapes and sizes, and it’s used for a variety of applications. If you want to add custom glass to your home or business, you have many options to choose from. Springfield Glass Company is here to provide clarity. In today’s custom glass glossary, we explain key terms and identify common types of glass, so you can decide which type is best for you.
What Exactly Is Glass?
Glass is a hard, brittle material that may be transparent or translucent. This substance is made by fusion process, where sand is fused with soda, lime, and other ingredients. Then, it’s cooled rapidly. Today, the simplest form of glass is known as plate or clear window glass.
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Common Types of Glass
Different applications require different types of glass. Many manufacturers use specific glass types, such as:
- Annealed Glass – Standard float glass that’s commonly used in windows. Annealed glass is softer and can cause injury if it breaks.
- Tempered Glass – A material that’s heated up and quickly cooled to increase its strength and durability. If it does break, tempered glass breaks into many small pieces, reducing the chance of injury.
- Laminated Glass – Laminated glass blends a layer of resin to create a strong sheet of glass. This safety glass is similar to tempered glass, except it’s not quite as strong. Laminated glass is frequently used in exterior storefronts.
- Low-E Glass – Low-emissivity glass is precisely coated to reduce thermal radiation. Low-E windows are energy efficient, and the coatings can help you save money on energy costs.
- Patterned Glass – A type of glass that provides privacy and decorative effects and is used to control light. Patterned glass is often used for glass shower doors.
- Tinted Glass – Glass that’s darkened during the manufacturing process to reduce the transmission of light and solar energy. Tinted Glass is treated with a film or coating that can be installed on the interior or exterior of glass in businesses and homes.
- Mirrored Glass – Glass that features a reflective surface on one side.
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Contact Springfield Glass Company Today
Whether you’re looking for a one-piece custom glass design or window installations for a whole building, you’re in good hands with Springfield Glass Company. We’ve served the Springfield area and beyond since 1985. To learn more about our custom glass options, view our website, give us a call, or contact us online. We offer free estimates, and all our glass comes with a one-year warranty.