Toughened glass is a popular choice for all sorts of projects, from domestic staircase installations to commercial office improvements – and for very good reason.
However, despite its widespread use, there are still many misconceptions that surround toughened glass, which puts many people off incorporating it into their projects.
Below, the Express Toughening experts explore some of the most common myths, debunking them as they go so you can feel confident in your decision.
Toughened glass is a popular choice for all sorts of projects, from domestic staircase installations to commercial office improvements – and for very good reason.
However, despite its widespread use, there are still many misconceptions that surround toughened glass, which puts many people off incorporating it into their projects.
Below, the Express Toughening experts explore some of the most common myths, debunking them as they go so you can feel confident in your decision.
Myth #1: Toughened glass is unbreakable
Many people choose toughened glass in the first place because they believe that it’s impossible to break, but this isn’t the case.
Whilst toughened glass is incredibly strong (up to five times as strong as typical annealed glass!), it can break when subjected to extreme force.
However, the way it breaks differs from other types of glass, and rather than shattering into large, sharp shards, it shatters into small, blunt pieces to reduce the risk of potentially nasty injuries.
Myth #2: Toughened glass is only suitable for commercial projects
Another common belief is that toughened glass can only be used in commercial building projects, when in actual fact, it can be used around the home, too!
Toughened glass products, like balustrade panels or shower screens, for example, are ideal for domestic applications, and there are several aesthetic and safety benefits for you to take advantage of as a homeowner.
Myth #3: Toughened glass can be recut or drilled after manufacturing
Whilst regular glass can be cut and modified after its initial manufacturing, toughened glass can’t.
Due to the extensive toughening process, which involves heating the glass to a high temperature before rapidly cooling it to create internal tension, the glass cannot be cut, drilled, or shaped without the risk of shattering.
So, if you’re ordering a bespoke piece, make sure you’ve provided accurate measurements to your manufacturer, as it needs to be cut to your desired shape and size beforethe toughening process commences.
Myth #4: All safety glass is the same
Tempered. Toughened. Float. People often assume that they’re all the same.
But, you guessed it, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Each type of glass has different properties that are better suited to some projects than others, as outlined below:
Feature
Toughened glass
Laminated glass
Float glass
Strength
High
Medium to high
Low
Breakage
Shatters into small, blunt pieces
Cracks but holds together
Sharp, dangerous shards
Safety
High
Very high
Low
Cut/drill after?
No
Yes (pre-lamination only)
Yes
Uses
Shower screens, doors, and balustrade panels
Skylights, floors and safety glazing
Small windows and mirrors
Cost
Medium
Higher
Low
Want to know more about toughened glass?
Whether you want to know more about toughened glass or are interested in ordering bespoke glass pieces for your home or office, the team at Express Toughening can help.
With decades of experience and a range of premium products, there’s no better team to turn to.
Contact their experts today, or browse and order their products online!
