We find many customers asking this question when making a glass purchase. So Here is a bit of information on each type of glass. Please keep in mind that every project is different and you need to make your decision based on how YOU will use the glass.
Tempered Glass is one type of Safety Glass. Tempered Glass is used in glass doors, shower enclosures and doors, frame-less Commercial Doors, food service equipment and glass tabletops for pedestal based tables or tables where weight placement is a concern.
Tempered Glass is a bit more expensive due to the process it goes thru to make it 4 - 5 times stronger and more durable than Float - Annealed Glass. Tempered Glass is also less likely to experience breakage since it is a hardened glass. When Tempered Glass does break, it will break into small pebble shaped pieces unlike the thin large shards that occur when Float Annealed Glass breaks.
Float Annealed Glass can be used for tabletops, glass protective furniture and table covers, china cabinet doors, basement and other window glass replacement (recommended for areas that do not pose a concern for safety).
Float Annealed Glass is less expensive than Tempered Glass and in stock or readily available at full service glass shops.
If you are thinking of replacing glass in a door or next to a door please check with your State and local building department codes as most have made it mandatory to use tempered glass within a few feet of a door.
Single Strength Glass can be used for small picture frames, storm and window glass replacement.
Double Strength Glass can be used for Storm and window glass replacement and larger picture frames. Double strength glass will provide better sound control than single strength glass.
1/8" Thickness can be used for protective furniture glass tops, small cabinet glass panels, small window panes, insulated glass units,small mirrors and some specialty glass
3/16" Glass can be used for larger cabinet glass, insulated glass units, small mirrors. It is not recommended for table tops.
1/4" Thickness is most commonly used for protective furniture and table covers, small tabletops, mirror and general glass applications.
1/2" Thickness is used for tabletops, large shelves, large shower doors and enclosures.
3/4" Thickness is used for very large or unsupported tabletops, shelves and countertops.
YES! Wilmington Glass does provide on-site glass and door hardware repairs at your location. Call us today 302-777-7000.
Wilmington Glass will gladly take a look at your project plans and provide a quote for material only or material and labor costs. Keep us in mind for any of your upcoming projects. Plans can be emailed to wilmingtonglassco@gmail.com
No. Once the glass has gone thru the tempering process, you will not be able to cut it down at all. This is the reason you really must check and double check your measurements.
Customers have questions, and we have answers. Please contact us via email or phone and we will be happy to assist.