Designing with Glass: How Commercial Glazing Can Enhance Building Aesthetics
Commercial glazing is used in a range of buildings for many reasons, whether that’s to improve the security, and safety of both the public and workers or as a way of saving energy – this type of glazing is essential. Commercial glazing can also be used to make buildings, workspaces, and public areas look sleeker and more modern, adding natural light, and taking centre stage in a range of stunning designs. We’ll take a closer look at what commercial glazing is, its benefits, and how it can be used in the design of a building.
Commercial windows are used in shops and public spaces, and one of the main benefits is that they are strong and durable, but sometimes, things can go wrong. But with commercial window repair, you don’t have to worry – your glazing can be repaired easily so it doesn’t have to interrupt your daily routine.
What is commercial glazing?
Commercial glazing is found in public places and properties like schools, supermarkets, shopping centres, and offices to name a few. It’s different to the types of glazing we’d find in our homes – there are many different types of glazing that builders and architects can choose from depending on what they’re hoping to achieve. Commercial glazing can be used to meet a variety of safety requirements, for security, and to simply enhance aesthetics. This type of glazing can be used both internally and externally, to create shop fronts, roofs, internal walls, and partitions.
What are the benefits?
So, why do these buildings need to use commercial glazing? One of the most notable benefits is safety. There are various types of commercial glazing that are shatter-proof which increases safety for workers and the public. Shatter-resistant glazing is also sometimes required in various settings. Commercial glazing can keep the heat in and the cold out and can enhance overall energy efficiency. Another benefit that comes with this type of glazing is that it is extremely strong, meaning security will be enhanced. It can also help prevent glare and increase overall natural light.
Types of commercial glazing
There are a few different types of commercial glazing that can be used in a range of buildings, such as:
Insulated glass: this type of glass is primarily designed to reduce the transfer of heat and can be used as a way of increasing energy efficiency. It’s made up of multiple layers of glass that improve durability. This type of glass is strong and energy efficient.
Low-E glass: this type of glazing is covered in a thin coating of metal oxide. It filters out UV rays and keeps the heat in and the cold out. It’s also great for protecting against glare.
Plexiglass: this type of glazing is shatter resistant and is commonly used in buildings that require this type of glazing by law. It’s safe and highly durable.
Tempered glass: this is another type of incredibly strong glass. It’s used in areas in which there are safety concerns, such as car windscreens. Like plexiglass, it can also be used in buildings which require a shatter-proof option.
Designing with commercial glazing
Whilst there are a few obvious benefits that come with using commercial glazing, did you know it can also be used to improve the look and style of a building? It can be used to create large glass walls at the front of a building so that it looks modern and sleek. It can also be used on roofs and ceilings so natural light can stream through a flood the space. And it doesn’t simply have to be rectangular panes of glass – architects and builders creating a property can take advantage of the curvature of buildings, as well as facetted glass to create new and bespoke styles. Adding glass to buildings can have an impact on the way people feel when entering, especially in terms of allowing sunlight in.
