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Commercial Glazing Systems

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Virtually every commercial building has window systems of some type. Selecting and specifying the type of windows and glazing has a significant impact on the overall design and aesthetics of a building. Also of importance is the overall quality of the glazing system in terms of durability, weather resistance and physical integrity. In this energy-conscious era, the thermal performance of windows and facades is becoming an important design consideration as well. These factors are important when choosing the most desirable and best performing commercial glazing systems through a company like South Melbourne Glass. It is therefore important to have the following in mind when having a façade glazed.

Type of glazing

In commercial glazing, an insulated glass unit is used to combine multiple glass panes to a single unit. From this, we have double glazing, triple glazing and so on depending on the number of panes used. Double glazing is commonly used in most commercial building. It consists of two panes of glass combines to form a single unit. The panes of glass are separated by a spacer and a layer of air or inert gas. The glass is then fitted onto the window frames which have been designed to accommodate the two panes.

Double glazed windows are an ideal choice for energy efficiency with an added benefit of minimizing external noise. The air gap between the panes of glass acts as added insulation. This prevents escape of heat during winter and preventing unwanted heat from coming in during summer. This saves on costs of installing air conditioning and heating systems. Triple glazed systems, though more expensive, are more efficient than double glazed systems since they utilize three glass panes. The type of glazing you go for will be determined by your budget and need to conserve energy.

Type of glass used

Different types of glass are used for commercial glazing. They are available in different opacities, textures and finishes. There are basic types of glass such as float glass, sheet glass and patterned glass. Modified types of glass include reflective glass, insulating glass, laminated safety glass, toughened safety glass and tinted glass among others. Modified glass types can be used for safety, energy conservation, better acoustics or aesthetic purposes. They type of glass chosen should serve the purpose for which it is intended.

Framing material

The framing material used in commercial glazing plays an important role in energy conservation. Certain types of materials affect the insulation properties of the glass glazing. The most widely used frame materials are timber, aluminium and PVC. Timber is a natural insulator and does not conduct heat making it ideal as a glazing frame. Aluminium absorbs heat from the outside and conducts it into the building making it an ideal material. PVC is the highest quality glass glazing frame material in the market. It has excellent thermal and sound insulating properties and doesn't conduct heat or cold as aluminium does.

Understanding the different features of commercial glazing systems is essential in ensuring you get the best glaze for your building's windows or façade. A good commercial glazing system should meet the thermal insulation, sound insulation and aesthetic requirements for which it is installed.


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