Glass is more complex than first appears. When you look at the mirror, you can't even begin to imagine the variety of applications it may serve. On the surface, the glass appears to be a building element constantly present in residences, workplaces, and practically all structures. But beyond its prominent use in architecture, glass has a number of attractive and practical benefits. Here are ten things regarding glass that you should be aware of:
1. Glass assists in reducing heat
Choose reflective glass to assist reduce heat transfer into your building. This type of glass has a unique surface treatment that aids in heat reflection. It lowers the amount of heat that enters the building and also keeps the interior at a suitable temperature. As a result, you won't feel the heat outdoors, no matter how hot it is!
2. The color of the glass can be changed at the push of a button
A type of glass that can dynamically alter its color is called electrochromic glass. What? Just simple smart glass, nothing complicated! It is true that glass can alter its color in reaction to the sun, ensuring an unimpeded view of the outside while also improving occupant comfort. As a result, you can finally say goodbye to your blinds and curtains and relax inside while taking in the beautiful scenery outside.
3. Glass may provide acoustics
Only the proper glass type needs to be picked out! Up to 52dB of noise reduction is possible with laminated glass. Glass thereby gives you the ability to adjust sound in addition to privacy. You can unwind within the boundaries of your comfort zone without being bothered by noisy neighbors thanks to soundproof glass.
4. Your electrical bills may be reduced by the glass
Glass guarantees that enough light can enter the building while limiting the amount of heat that can enter. You will therefore be able to reduce the need for artificial lights. In addition, because heat is reflected, the interior temperature is maintained at its ideal level. This guarantees a decrease in the need for air conditioning. The reduction of artificial lighting and air conditioning coupled with lower energy costs is the ideal outcome.
5. Glass can keep you safe
Perhaps one quality that one wouldn't immediately identify with glass is safety. However, despite its appearance, this material can be extremely strong. How? Special manufacturing processes can produce glass that is fire-rated and can shield a building's occupants from fire. High-security glass, which gives resistance to explosions and gunshots, is another option. There is even cutting-edge multi-functional glass that defends against the combined hazards of fire and physical assaults, assuring the highest level of safety.
6. Glass is more durable than it appears to be
The glass that has been toughened or tempered is four times more durable than annealed glass. This qualifies it for usage in high-rise structures where the wind load is greater. Laminated glass has the advantage of not shattering but rather of only being fractured, although not being unbreakable. Even so, the interlayer in the glass prevents the fragments from dispersing and helps them stay together.
7. There are many interior applications for glass
Lacquered glass is favored in interior design due to its inherent beauty and practical advantages; it may be used in both toughened and annealed forms. It can be used for wall panels, closets, kitchen splashbacks, countertops, table tops, dividers, writing boards, and a plethora of other unimaginable purposes!
8. Transparent glass can be changed to translucent glass
Privacy glass for you: you can look through it now, but you can't. With this glass, you can quickly go from being transparent to being translucent. So instead of having to choose a different glass for each necessity, you have the option of picking any mode you want in just one single glass.
9. Glass is more transparent the less iron it contains
When choosing glass, clarity is unquestionably at the top of the list of considerations. Here is a quick test to see. The raw materials' iron content gives the glass a greenish color. Its clarity and purity will be higher the less greenish the hue is. Glass that has less iron will therefore be clearer and purer.
10. Recyclable material is glass
Glass can be recycled entirely. Glass that has been recycled before (known as "cullet") can be used to make new glass. The glass actually plays a role in the water cycle because so little water is used in its production. Utilizing this environmentally friendly material in your home or place of business allows you to contribute to environmental sustainability. How easy and successful is that huh?