The Glass in Your Window

The most significant component of your window is the glass. It is through the use of glass that energy-efficiency and climate control is possible. Also, glass is crucial to letting in sunlight and giving you that all-important view. In this article the focus will be on the types of glass and how they are rated.

Glass is formed through the fusion of silica. The glass most commonly used in windows is called Soda-Lime Glass. This name represents the materials used in its manufacture along with silica. Other chemicals are added to create specific properties. The glass used in windows is Flat Glass. There are four types of flat glass available. Each is discussed below.

Sheet Glass

This type of glass is made by drawing the glass vertically out of the chemical mixture. The sheet so created is polished. In this process, the glass gets waves and other distortions. Selection of cut sheets is based on the quality of the glass. The classification is "AA," "A," "B" or "Greenhouse." The highest standard grade is AA. But the B grade is quite satisfactory for most residential applications. The glass used in most homes is 3/16" thick.

Polished Plate Glass

This kind of glass is produced by rolling a continuous sheet or by casting large sheets individually. The surfaces are later made flat and polished by mechanical grinding. Plate glass is available in three grades based on its optical qualities. Glazing Quality is the standard grade. Mirror Glazing Quality is used for high-end applications, and Silvering Quality is used for specialized glazing applications only.

Float Glass

In this process, molten glass is made to float on a metal mixture till it attains a uniform thickness. This glass is ready to use without any further polishing. It combines the advantages of both Sheet and Plate Glass.

Rolled Glass

This kind of glass is drawn horizontally and is given the required shape and thickness. Patterned, corrugated and wired glass are all examples of rolled glass. Patterned glass is often used for decorative purposes.

Here are interesting links on Glass:

• Stain Glass - Explore the types of stained glass.
• Make your own glass! - A good activity for the young people in your house
The copyright of the article The Glass in Your Window in Building Construction is owned by Shefali Kumar. Permission to republish The Glass in Your Window in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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