The doors to your business symbolize a world of possibility and options to consumers, so give some thought to the types of glass used in your commercial doors. Not only does the glass type affect safety, but it also affects the function and atmosphere of your business’s entrance. Below is everything you need to know about various kinds of glass and their benefits.

Glass Types

Laminated, tempered, and laminated tempered glass are often used in commercial settings. Chemist Edouard Benedictus invented laminated glass in 1903. It’s composed of layers of glass held together with a special resin, making it stronger and more soundproof than a single pane. In the event of trauma to the glass, it bends, absorbing the force instead of breaking immediately. It also inhibits the transmission of almost all UV rays, making consumers safer and more comfortable.

Tempered glass, also known as toughened or safety glass, is several times harder to break than laminated glass. Manufacturers put it through a rigorous toughening process that involves heat and chemicals. When tempered glass breaks, it shatters into minute shards that pose little risk of lacerating people. Laminated tempered glass is difficult to make, as the process has to be exact and is hard on the glass, but it combines benefits of both.

Their Applications

Commercial doors that don’t have sturdy frames — or any frame at all — typically contain tempered glass to minimize the likelihood of breakage and limit the risk of injury if it does fracture. Since tempered glass is harder to crack, it can deter break-ins, too. Because laminated glass is flexible, it’s used more commonly in places that face high winds, such as hurricane-prone areas. It provides more comfort benefits than tempered glass through its noise and UV reduction, which means a quieter, cooler interior for your store. The superior and most expensive option, however, is laminated tempered glass; it provides these benefits while being more durable. This last option is fantastic for security doors and areas prone to break-ins or heavy storms, but it costs more in door repair and replacements than the other varieties.

Find the commercial doors with all of these glass types at Southern Ohio Door Controls in Cincinnati, OH. They bring over 30 years of experience to the business thanks to their comprehensive services and large inventory. Options include revolving, automatic, and security doors that are compliant with ADA guidelines, as well as door openers, hardware, panic bars, and other accessories. Their skilled team is licensed and insured to provide door repair, replacement, and installation services, and they’re available 24/7 for emergencies. Start by browsing their automatic doors online, and call (513) 353-4793 to request service today.