Glass Types and Thickness Compared

Not all glass is the same. Annealed glass is ordinary flat glass that breaks into sharp pieces. Tempered glass is heated and cooled quickly, which makes it stronger and makes it break into small pieces, and it is used for shower doors, tabletops and many other places. Laminated glass bonds layers around a clear interlayer, so it holds together when cracked, which makes it a common choice for railings and overhead glass. Thickness changes strength and weight: quarter-inch glass suits small panels, three-eighths and half-inch glass suit doors and railings, and thicker glass handles larger spans.

Appearance matters too. Low-iron glass is clearer with less green tint at the edges. Tinted glass cuts glare and adds privacy. Frosted, reeded and patterned glass hide views while letting light through. Insulated glass units use two panes with a gap between them to slow heat transfer in windows and doors. We help you match the type and thickness to the use, and we tell you where safety glass is typically required and what to confirm with your local office.

Best for

• Homeowners planning shower doors
• People choosing railing glass
• Window and patio door owners
• Designers and builders