1.Safety
Laminated or tempered glass is essential for overhead installations to prevent injuries in case of breakage.
2.Thermal Performance
Low-E glass and insulated glass units help maintain energy efficiency in climates with significant temperature fluctuations.
3.UV Protection
Laminated or coated glass can block harmful UV rays, protecting interiors from fading.
4.Weather Resistance
Skylight glass must endure wind loads, hail, and temperature extremes without degrading.
5.Aesthetic Goals
Clear glass maximizes visibility, while frosted or tinted options enhance privacy or style.
6.Maintenance
Self-cleaning glass reduces the effort needed to keep skylights clean and clear.
For skylights, the selection of glass is critical to ensure safety, energy efficiency, durability, and comfort. Skylights must endure environmental factors like weather changes, UV radiation, and potential impacts while maintaining excellent light transmission.
Strength and Durability: Four to five times stronger than standard glass, it can handle strong environmental forces. Safety: Breaks into small, blunt pieces if shattered, minimizing injury risk. Clarity: Provides excellent visibility and light transmission. Applications: Used in single-glazed skylights or as a component in laminated or double-glazed systems. Limitations: Does not hold together when broken, requiring additional layers or lamination for safety. | Safety: Prevents shards from falling if the glass breaks, making it essential for skylights in high-risk areas. UV Protection: Blocks up to 99% of harmful UV rays, protecting interiors from fading. Acoustic Insulation: Reduces noise from rain and external sources. Durability: Withstands environmental stresses like wind, snow loads, and hail. Applications: Commonly used in multi-layered skylights or high-impact zones. Limitations: Heavier than tempered glass, requiring stronger support structures. |
Energy Efficiency: Reduces heat transfer, keeping interiors cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Condensation Control: Prevents condensation on the interior surface, maintaining clarity. Acoustic Insulation: Minimizes external noise, enhancing indoor comfort. Applications: Ideal for skylights in climates with extreme temperatures. Limitations: Heavier than single-pane glass and more expensive to manufacture. | Solar Control: Reduces the amount of heat and light entering the space, improving comfort. Privacy: Provides some opacity while maintaining brightness. Aesthetic Appeal: Available in various colors to complement architectural designs. Applications: Used in regions with intense sunlight or for aesthetic purposes. Limitations: May slightly reduce visibility and natural light transmission. |