Tempered Vs Thick Glass
Tempered and thick glass and window products are considered to be safer because they are less likely to break in case of an accident or some other type of event. While these types of glass are commonly used in shower doors and table tops due to safety reasons, there are significant differences between thick and tempered models. Thick versions are traditional glass that is thicker than windows, while tempered products have been through a controlled strengthening process.
Thick Windows
Glaziers can cut traditional glass in any type of thickness. Thick windows and other products are generally at least half an inch to three-quarters of an inch thick. Although it can withstand significantly more pressure than thinner models, the product does not go through any type of strengthening process. The glass can take more stress simply because it is thicker.
Tempered Glass
Tempered glass undergoes a heat or chemical strengthening process so it is able to withstand more pressure than traditional glass. Additionally, if tempered glass does break, it breaks into blunt pieces that are unlikely to cause serious injury. Tempered glass is often used in vehicles, to reduce human injury in the event of car accidents. It is also often used in baking glass products, shower and tub enclosures, and other products that encounter with a great deal of stress. Although tempered glass products are beneficial, all products must be cut to size before the glass undergoes the tempering treatment process. After glass has been chemical or heat strengthened, it cannot be cut, reshaped, or reworked.
