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Showing posts with label architactural glass. Show all posts
Showing posts with label architactural glass. Show all posts

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Top Tips on How to Protect Your Sliding Glass Door

By Unknown   Posted at  11:41 PM  

Top Tips on How to Protect Your Sliding Glass Door

While your front door is probably rather thick, with a deadbolt to prevent someone from breaking in, the patio door may be made entirely from glass with only a flimsy lock. Enhancing patio door security poses a unique challenge because of the way most sliding glass doors are designed, but it is certainly possible. Here are a few ways to enhance the security of this vulnerable area of your home:
Your first step is to check the installation of the door. Did you know that some sliding glass doors have been improperly installed in a way that allows an intruder to simply lift the door off the tracks? Call in a professional if you're not sure if the door has been installed correctly. Driving a screw into the top of the upper track can also prevent some of these issues Architectural Glass Projects

Now, get a bar to stop the door from being forced open. This bar fits into the track of the sliding glass door, preventing it from opening even if the lock is broken. This simple yet effective door stopper is easy to use and won't interfere with the attractiveness of your patio door. Even a broom handle or dowel placed in the track will serve this purpose 

Next, consider adding a second lock to your sliding glass door. Most patio doors have relatively flimsy locks that can snap off or break under pressure and could easily be forced open by an intruder. Look for a reliable and durable lock to prevent this possibility Glass Bathroom Shelves

One of the most important security features you can add is a glass break alarm. This alarm will sound if the glass breaks for any reason, from a child throwing a baseball to a burglar wielding a bat. Large panes of glass, such as those found in the typical sliding glass door, are particularly vulnerable entry points because they can be smashed. Glass break alarms will instantly alert you to the breach in security. This is one of the simplest and most effective way to stop burglars from entering through a broken glass door. Your other options to stop a burglar from breaking the glass to get inside are to install ugly security bars across the pane or replace it with expensive bulletproof or shatter-resistant glass. Even if you have glass break detectors, you should also install door alarms, which will go off if the door is opened Kitchen Glass
Finally, any door or window, including patio doors, should be protected with outdoor lighting and a surveillance camera. Whether you choose a dummy camera or the real deal, burglars will avoid that entry point because they don't want to be caught on tape breaking in Glass Floor Tiles

You can protect the security of your patio door not only through using these security devices, but also by paying attention to how you use the door. Do you ever leave it open for ventilation or while you're outside gardening, lounging by the pool, or enjoying our backyard? Remember, open windows and doors should never be left unattended. If you're out of eyesight, it takes just seconds for a burglar to slip inside Glass Office Partitions
A large percentage of burglars enter through a back or side door, where they can't be seen from the street. Many families forget about the importance of securing these entry points from burglars. It is easy to increase the security of this area with little effort and minimal cost laminated glass


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Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Find Replacement Windows With Style

By Unknown   Posted at  7:34 AM  
Find Replacement Windows With Style

With more than a dozen basic window types on the market, you can be easily confused about the best replacement window for your home. Today's modern homeowners often mix and match historical styles into a look of their own. Perhaps you have made a conscious decision to retain an architectural style from a bygone era. No matter: if you spend the appropriate time to shop around, you'll find the best replacement windows that retain the look of your home and add value in terms of durability and energy efficiency.

You'll find that window manufacturers sell replacement sets in all types. That includes single hung, double hung, horizontal sliders, casement, bay or bow, skylights, picture, awning, radius or arch, transoms, and garden windows.

There's a Window Just for You
If you have special architectural needs, many top manufacturers will sell you specialty window types, including elliptical, arched circle tops, full circular, gothic with arches, octagon shapes, quarter, and flanker windows. With the wide range of types, it will help you speed up your search for replacements or for remodeling by settling on a window material, measuring the size and shape you'll need, and remaining flexible when it comes to creating the an effective mix of styles based on your existing home.


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Friday, November 7, 2014

Advantages of Glass Partitions in a Working Environment

By Unknown   Posted at  6:26 AM  
Advantages of Glass Partitions in a Working Environment

Who remembers the old office layouts, you know the ones, when everyone had their own desk separated by partitions so that you could concentrate on your work and not become distracted by anyone else. Pretty dull huh? Back in the 80's upper level management thought this was the best way to go about getting the best from their employees, but as we moved further in to the 21st century, we can clearly see that this is not the case. Glass partitions are the up and coming choice for new working office environments and we list some of the reasons why.

Privacy- Many believe that just because the partitions are made from glass, it means they have no form of privacy, but as I will explain, this is not the case. Firstly, you can ensure that you order sound proof partitions, and you will be safe in the knowledge that confidential matters remain confidential. Secondly, if you are worried about people looking through the window in to your meeting, then make sure you order frosted glass walls, this way you won't be seen or heard.

Glass partitions are a great way for maintaining connectivity among the staff and directors along with the required privacy needed to carry out daily routines when dealing with clients, and also when dealing with internal affairs.

Professional Look- There are a range of measures that any business would go to in order to create a positive first impression when dealing with their clients. The look of their office is one, which will want to be a clean and warm environment, and can reflect the personality of the company. Partitions create this impression and suggest the company is in touch with the current trends. The slick and trendy designs will help your client feel comfortable and can help get the relationship off to a great start.



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Thursday, October 30, 2014

Skylights For an Energy Efficient Home

By Unknown   Posted at  8:47 AM  
Skylights For an Energy Efficient Home

Did you know that a survey found that the average American is spending more than $1,500 on energy every year? Imagine if it were possible to bring down this amount by a third or even a half!

It has been noted by designers and architects that it is possible for people to save on utility bills if their house is designed with this in mind. This process is called daylighting and it includes the use of windows, glass and skylights for the purpose of saving energy.

Skylights are a great way of minimizing heating, cooling and lighting costs as they provide natural light, heat and warmth. There is only one proviso: the home must be built to suit this requirement and proper elements must be installed in the right manner.

You can maximize the energy efficiency of skylights in the following ways.

Optimizing design: The first consideration would be to determine the kind of skylight and its right positioning. To do this, it is necessary that homeowners understand how skylights help in making the home energy efficient. One indicator is the 5-star rating system. This shows how effective the unit will be in different seasons. Further, there is a WERS (Window Energy Rating System) that analyses energy efficiency based on the differences in how windows and skylights can help the home. Before remodeling the house or building a new house, it is necessary to incorporate energy efficiency as an integral part of the entire design.



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Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Glass Balustrade to Improve Your Home's Overall Appearance

By Unknown   Posted at  8:26 AM  
Glass Balustrade to Improve Your Home's Overall Appearance

Glass stair balustrades are now commonly used in several structures like boutique resorts, condominiums, loft apartments, city properties, resorts, hotels, colleges, banking companies, shopping malls, grocery store, hospitals and many other types of structures and places of work. Balustrading variations crafted from high high quality glass are very desirable for its elegance. It is also a extremely functional material and can be used in areas huge or tiny no matter of design and style and topic.

The versatility of this materials has produced it the most unique and most sought following finishing content as it can be used in any software ranging from pool fencing, indoor and outside balustrading, shower screens and splash backs. Glass does not require a lot maintenance in addition they do not want portray as a result a really value-efficient materials to use for constructing and renovation reasons. Another amazing benefit you get from glass stair balustrade installation is the free of charge mild motion in your area. Glass is an superb decision if you want to construct an vitality productive property that also has a light-weight and airy come to feel.


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Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Time Tested Tips on How to Clean Your Glass Bathroom Shelves

By Unknown   Posted at  8:38 AM  
Time Tested Tips on How to Clean Your Glass Bathroom Shelves

Everyone wants to have a sparkling bathroom. There are an abundance of products that can be used to clean your glass bathroom shelves and keep them clean. With the great look they provide for your bathroom, the last thing you want to see are dirty shelves and water stains.

Vinegar and Water is a Great Glass Cleaner
Using a spray bottle that you can purchase at your local retailer, mix vinegar and water half and half. The mixture should be shaken well. Spray it on your glass shelves and wipe with your cleaning cloth. Make sure this is a dry cloth. The mixture will remove any dirt and for the final step you can use a crumpled newspaper to go over the glass. You will have a streak free sparkling clean shelf.

If you are fighting tough dirt that has accumulated for a while on your glass shelves, you may want to make the vinegar solution a little stronger. Or even use the vinegar full strength to get rid of built-up grime. Proceed with the steps as outlined above and your glass shelves will look as good as new.






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Friday, October 24, 2014

By Unknown   Posted at  7:24 AM  
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.


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Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Building an Office: Architectural Glass Considerations

By Unknown   Posted at  5:28 AM  
Building an Office: Architectural Glass Considerations

Your office says a lot about you. As a matter of fact, it determines how serious, trustworthy and sincere you are as a company. It is thus imperative that you take deliberate and keen attention on the look of its decor. The type of architectural material to be used should be carefully chosen, including the type of architectural glass being used. This article articulates some of the points to consider when making such choices in architectural design.

When choosing the type of architectural glass to be used for office, a number of factors should be considered - including a glass's solar control, its thermal insulation, color, light transmission, safety properties, and sound insulation.

Aesthetics is also a big concern for office glasses. For example, when making the type of spandrel panels, you should confer with your architects so as to make sure that the whole portico of the building has a harmonious and unified appearance. 


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Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Architectural Glass Projects Around the World

By Unknown   Posted at  6:26 AM  
Architectural Glass Projects Around the World

Glass has always fascinated architects and designers as a medium for construction. Contemporary designers have pushed avant-garde to the extremes by using glass in ways that have never been imagined before. There are many examples around the world that exhibit the use of architectural glass in impressive commercial and residential projects.

National Grande Theater of China
In Beijing, China, this easily recognizable dome was designed by Paul Andreu and completed in 2007. Glass panes are combined with titanium to produce extra-strong glass for the large dome shape that can withstand weathering. The final product of this massive dome has stirred controversy in China with the ultra-modern design contrasting against the traditional Chinese architecture of the nearby Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.

Burj Tower
Completed in 2009, Burj Khalifa is located in downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Following its inauguration to the public in 2010, Burj Tower officially became the world's tallest building. Chicago office of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM) was responsible for design with Adrian Smith FAIA, RIBA acting as consulting design Partner. Burj Tower is covered with 120,000 square meters of architectural glass. The glass withstands extreme desert conditions, from changing temperatures, to heavy winds, and weathering from sand.





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Monday, October 20, 2014

Advantages of Choosing Aluminium Glass Railing Systems

By Unknown   Posted at  6:06 AM  
Advantages of Choosing Aluminium Glass Railing Systems


Aluminium glass railing, a recent innovation in the construction industry, is fast becoming a popular option for many interior decorators. The reasons for this popularity of the Aluminium glass railing varies from the preference of the people, appeal of the design, etc. The basic purpose of any railing is to support a structure and ensuring that people using it don't fall. The ideal usage of an aluminium glass railing is seen in decks, balconies, terraces, stair cases and several other areas.


For home owners or office owners, planning to invest in superior quality railings, here is a brief preview of the advantages of choosing aluminium glass railing systems:


It looks elegant
The best part about adding glass to any structure is that it increases the elegance or style quotient of the premise. Aluminium glass railings are no exception to this rule. Thanks to their urbane design, using these railings adds the much needed tint of glamour to the overall aesthetic appeal of the premise.


Comfortably blends with existing interiors
We have already told you that these railings look extremely stylish. However, the biggest advantage of these railings is that it easily blends with several types of interiors. You can use it with wood work, concrete walls, glass structures, etc. and it is sure to emancipate the appeal of the existing interiors.



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Friday, October 17, 2014

Domestic Decorative Glass Panel Applications

By Unknown   Posted at  7:51 AM  
Domestic Decorative Glass Panel Applications

  There are many places in your home where you can use decorative glass panels. If you are planning to remodel your house, consider using cost effective panels in the following areas in your home:

  Windows: Windows are a great place to use panels. They can not only give decorative effects but also privacy. Like shutters or drapers they also won't block natural light. The coloured versions can also brighten up your interiors.

  Room divider: They can also be used as room dividers. Instead of placing a permanent wall as a divider, you can choose a design that blends in with the surrounding furnishings.

  Fireplace screen: This is an excellent way to add a focal point to your interior. You can find specially made panels for fireplaces.

  Doors: Give an old door new life by hanging a decorative glass panel.

  Children's rooms: You can find many designs to use on windows and doors in children's rooms, with themes like sports, animals, and ballerinas available. You can find a variety of subjects and pictures and themes that suits kids of all ages and add some fun to their rooms. Arks, teddy bears and trains are common designs that are widely used on windows and doors in kid's rooms. This can give small children mental stimulation and provides them with something that they treasure and cherish forever.


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Thursday, October 16, 2014

Glass Mirrors

By Unknown   Posted at  7:32 AM  
Glass Mirrors

Any surface capable of reflecting insufficient distributed light to form an image of an object placed in front of it is called a mirror. Its old-fashioned term is "looking-glass". They can be plane or curved. Plane mirror has flat surface while a curved mirror produces magnified or diminished images, focuses light or distorts the reflected images.

These items are used for grooming. No one gets out of his house without looking himself in the mirror. They can also be used in decoration and architecture. Scientific apparatuses like telescopes, lasers, cameras and industrial machineries also comprise of this thing. They are also used in kaleidoscope. It is a tube of mirrors which contains colored pebbles, beads and other small objects. Two mirrors are placed at 45, 60, 90 degree angle facing each other.

Most of these things are manufactured with glass substrate in which a reflective coating is applied to it. Glass mirrors, as they are called, have many types. Silver glass type is a flat mirror coated by a mixture of silver, copper film and two or more layers of waterproof coating on the back surface of a float glass. This kind withstands acid and moisture. It gives clear and actual images and is durable.



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Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Glass For Architecture

By Unknown   Posted at  8:04 AM  

Glass For Architecture

Glass blocks or glass bricks are usually utilized as architectural glass in constructing walls and partitions, but are not ideal for doorways as they have a tendency to be extremely thick and quite hefty. They could be utilized for doorways, but this software is uncommon.

In the building of present day structures, glass has grow to be an important ingredient. With present day technology, the permutation of glass varieties has been both assorted and interesting. There have been applications in each tiny and large quantities - from kitchen wall splash backs, cabinetry and staircase balustrades and threads, to laminated double-glazing for place of work structures and skyscrapers.


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Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Choosing Beautiful Kitchen Glass Backsplash Tiles

By Unknown   Posted at  7:57 AM  
Choosing Beautiful Kitchen Glass Backsplash Tiles

  Glass backsplash tiles are used to decorate your kitchen. These tiles would help you to give a new and exclusive look to your kitchen. Kitchen is considered to be the best place for trying new experiments. It is place where you try different tiles. You can decorate your kitchen with the help of the stone, glass and metal tiles. But you need to spend time on creating new and beautiful design. You should also use your imagination power to make your own design.

  You will find variety of glass backsplash tiles. Choose the tile that attracts your attention. Glass backsplash ties are available in different color, shape, size and texture. Decide which tiles are best for your project. Choose the tile that would fit into your need and demand.

  You would find various types of designs in kitchen backsplash tile. These tiles are long lasting. There are many backsplash tiles which are not durable. So, you don't limit your choice. Try to experiment with different colors and design before you actually decide your design. Don't be afraid of using these tiles. These tiles are hand made. You would get a wide range of backsplash tile.

  The most important factor about backsplash tile is that they are easy to clean and they are easy to maintain. These tiles have beautiful texture but very soon these tiles become dirty. There are tiles called stone tile. These tiles can be used to decorate the kitchen the only disadvantage of these tiles is that is quite spongy. But don't worry these tiles can be sealed to make them suitable for your kitchen. These tile are expensive are compare to other types of tiles.



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Monday, October 13, 2014

Architectural Glass Doors

By Unknown   Posted at  8:44 AM  

Architectural Glass Doors

  Architectural glass is glass used as a structural element, as opposed to merely decorative or inserted in hole in the wall for the sole purpose of providing light and a way to see out. Thus architectural glass doors are doors wherein the glass is an integral structural element of the door.

  There are many options when choosing glass for your architectural glass doors, although it may be wise to choose from safety glass types, which include toughened, reinforced and laminated glasses.

  Crown glass is the earliest style of glass window. It consisted of hot blown glass forced onto a round, flat sheet and cut to size. It was a very expensive mode of manufacture and could not be used to make large panes.

  It is not ideal for architectural glass applications, as it is not particularly strong compared to newer glass technologies. Also, it is expensive. It is still used for restoring old buildings, however, as it has a unique look that cannot be obtained through any other process.

  Glass blocks or glass bricks are often used as architectural glass in building walls and partitions, but are not ideal for doors as they tend to be very thick and very heavy. They could be used for doors, but this application is rare.


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Friday, October 10, 2014

Guide for Architectural Glass Use in Home and Business

By Unknown   Posted at  3:09 AM  
Guide for Architectural Glass Use in Home and Business

  Glass is an evolving material. From its earliest development in ancient times, to its modern day use as a design element with functional properties, glass can create elegance and purpose for every home or business.

  For exterior applications of a home or business, long gone are the days when glass usage could be thought of as drafty energy losing fundamentals. Today's architectural glass offers energy saving properties- in the form of low e insulated in conjunction with thermally broken metal framing- meeting the highest level of energy standards- even here in NY. The insulated glass can be clear, tinted and available in a range of colors and shapes to meet each glass projects particular needs.

   Glass railings are also a growing in popularity- both commercially and residential. The railing allows for an open feel, without obscuring views while offering security as a guard rail. The glass is durable and nearly maintenance free. Here in the Hudson Valley area, where river views are in great demand, the glass railing has proven to offer exceptional practicality and is considered to be a must have architectural element by most preferred glazing contractors and designers.

  Glass shower doors has grown to be a must have in every home. The European styled enclosure offers both a beautiful open design as well as a purposeful function in keeping water into the shower area. There are extensive hardware options and glass options for this style enclosure. It is highly suggested to have the glass protected with a sealant on the inside surface to prohibit the accumulation of hard water stains. Ritec ClearShield is a greatly regarded glass treatment product and has been the recipient of many awards. The all glass frameless shower door is usually installed about two weeks after measuring. The all glass enclosures, when provided by a competent glass company, will offer the highest quality hinges and hardware, the hinges should not be made of aluminum as this isn't considered structural as needed for the heavy glass the enclosure uses. The design that is most preferred is the type that uses clamps to secure the fixed panels versus the more dated "u" channel application. The more professional companies offer the clamps style as its much cleaner in appearance and creates more of an all glass look.


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Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Different Grades and Functions of Architectural Glass

By Unknown   Posted at  7:32 AM  
Different Grades and Functions of Architectural Glass

  There are a variety of architectural glass grades; each serving a specific purpose. In buildings, glass is typically used for safety to segregate the occupants from exposure to environmental elements. Therefore, most glass used in buildings is reinforced and laminated. In modern architecture, it is as important to aesthetics as it is to safety. Therefore, architects must select the exact type to fit the customer's requirement.

Grades of Architectural Glass
 There are a large number of types of glass used in the construction of structures. The most common include:

•Float glass
•Laminated glass
•Toughened glass
•Insulated glazing

  Float Glass: Most of the world's flat glass is manufactured through the float process which involves the pouring of molten glass into a tin bath. Then, the glass floats and spreads out across the bath delivering a smooth material. As it cools, it solidifies and leaves the bath in a continuous ribbon. This process provides perfectly parallel surfaces required in buildings.

  Laminated Glass: Another popular glass choice for buildings is laminated glass which is produced through the bonding of at least two layers with Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB) under heat and pressure which results in a single sheet. The PVB provides extra support which prevents it from shattering and causing bodily harm. This type is used in instances where security is a major concern.

  Toughened or tempered glass is a type of safety glass processed by controlled thermal or chemical treatments to increase its strength compared with normal glass. Tempering puts the outer surfaces into compression and the inner surfaces into tension. Such stresses cause the glass, when broken, to crumble into small granular chunks instead of splintering into jagged shards as plate glass (aka: annealed glass) create. The granular chunks are less likely to cause injury.
  As a result of its safety and strength, toughened glass is used in a variety of demanding applications, including passenger vehicle windows, shower doors, architectural glass doors and tables, refrigerator trays, as a component of bulletproof glass, for diving masks, and various types of plates and cookware.

  Insulated glazing, more commonly known as double glazing (or double-pane, and increasingly triple glazing/pane) are double or triple glass window panes separated by an air or other gas filled space to reduce heat transfer across a part of the building envelope.
  Insulated Glass Units are manufactured with glass in range of thickness from 3 mm to 10 mm (1/8" to 3/8") or more in special applications. Laminated or tempered glass may also be used as part of the construction. Most units are manufactured with the same thickness of glass used on both panes[citation needed] but special applications such as acoustic attenuation or security may require wide ranges of thicknesses to be incorporated in the same unit.


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Tuesday, October 7, 2014

Architectural Glass

By Unknown   Posted at  1:27 AM  
Architectural Glass

  Glass has always been one of the most popular and widely used building products for its ability to emit light into buildings whilst providing protection against the elements. Over the past few years however, our obsession with glass has taken a new turn and its use in architecture is evolving. Architectural glass is becoming a 'must have' in modern building and when architects set out to start developing new structures to create a dazzling city skyline, it seems as though most want to implement this style into their design.

  If you look at the vast majority of new buildings that are taking up prominent positions in the London skyline, such as St Pancras station, the Gherkin, the Shard and the Pinnacle, they all feature architectural glass to some extent - whether internally, externally or both. Outside of London, it's favoured by major blue chip companies such as electronics companies O2 and Sony, numerous high street banks, universities, colleges and hospitals as well as leading financial and legal organisations and institutions.

  Glass is so popular because it displays a professional ambience around the workplace, and it is very impressive when liaising with current or potential clients. It also creates visual impact from a distance whilst providing many user benefits such as weather protection, internal separation and acoustic properties.

  Around the UK, particularly in some of the larger cities such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Belfast, Cardiff and Newcastle you will find the style applied in many different ways. Every trend in the industry suggests that the popularity of this type of glass in architecture is likely to continue. Reasons for its popularity are that modern glass engineering techniques enable us to do more and more with it. From using it as a structural element of a building to printing graphics or images, the use and possible applications is virtually limitless.


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Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Architectural glass

By Unknown   Posted at  1:13 AM  
Architectural glass art plays an increasingly important role in contemporary building design-- both interior and exterior-- and outstanding examples of this spectacular and versatile art form are making a significant impact on our surroundings.No longer confined to decorative windows, the almost endless possibilities are being exploited by architects and designers worldwide for a prominent public and private clientele.
Architectural Glass Art takes the reader through all the techniques and styles available today. Illustrations not only focus on the works themselves, but show how glass art is incorporated into public and private spaces as an integral part of a building's structure and style. Each chapter includes a special feature on a highly regarded international glass artist; discussions of their innovative designs are accompanied by examples of their work. Within the chapters the many different styles and techniques are illustrated with the works of a wide range of artists at the forefront of this art form. The final section of the book presents practical information including a glossary and an international directory of artists and studios.
Architectural Glass Art is an invaluable resource and inspiration for students, designers, artists, and architects-- everyone interested in the latest developments in the contemporary, artistic uses of glass.

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Monday, April 14, 2014

Architectural Glass

By Unknown   Posted at  11:52 PM  
Overview of Architectural Glass
Architectural glass, regard as “Safety glass”, consist of two or more panes of glass with one or more layers of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) sandwiched between them and treated. The glass panes can be basic float glass or tempered or heat strengthened panel. If the glass is broken fragments tend to adhere to the PVB interlayer thereby reducing the risk of injury from falling glass and helping to resist further impact or weather damage. PVB membrane has good tenacity performance and when the laminated glass breaks due to violent force, the PVB will absorb large amount of impact energy and disperse it rapidly. Therefore, it hard to break the architectural glass and the shape of the glass may be maintained even if being broken. Furthermore, personnel inside and outside the buildings will not be hurt by the glass fragment.
Features of Architectural Glass:
Architectural glass provides durability, high-performance and multi-functional benefits and at the same time preserves the aesthetic appearance of glass. Architectural glass provides a solution to many architectural design problems and offers increased protection from the effects of disasters such as hurricane, earth quake and bomb blasts, if suitably designed.
SAFETY
Ordinary glass windows are brittle and break into long sharp pieces, causing serious and sometimes fatal injuries. An important feature of architectural glass is its performance under impact. That is, the interlayers in architectural glass have the capacity to absorb the energy of impact and resist penetration. Safety hazards caused due to breakages are minimised with the use of architectural glass. Although the glass may break, the glass fragments will adhere to the plastic interlayer, minimizing the risk of injury and property damage.
SECURITY 
Burglars often break windows to get to door and window handles, but architectural glass can resist the intrusion because it is virtually impossible to cut through the thick PVB layers even if the glass gets broken. Contact an expert to design suitable architectural glass for intrusion resistance.
SOUND CONTROL
Architectural glass has proven to be an excellent barrier to noise. It has a higher sound reduction index than monolithic glass of equal thickness between the frequencies of 125Hz and 4,000Hz. The shear damping performance of the PVB makes architectural glass an effective sound control product. This sound dampening is due to the low elastic property of the PVB interlayer.
UV CONTROL
While natural light plays an important role in architectural design, Ultra Violet (UV) rays in the sunlight can cause itching and fading of curtains/furniture. Architectural glass can block over 99% of the UV rays while allowing most of the visible light through.
WEATHER AND DISASTER CONTROL
Architectural glass helps provide protection from injury and property damage caused by glass breaking because of natural disasters such as hurricane and earthquake. In areas prone for natural disasters, an expert may be contacted to design the glass combination. Similarly, it also provides protection from manmade disasters such as bomb blasts. It does so by keeping the glass intact within the glass frame.
DURABILITY
Architectural glass is exceptionally durable, maintaining its colour and strength. It can be used for a variety of architectural and interior design applications such as floor glazing, stairs, balconies, balustrades, internal panelling and exterior cladding as well as for the more traditional doors and windows.
DESIGN VERSATILITY AND INSTALLATION EASE
Architectural glasses can be manufactured flat or curved. They can include annealed, toughened, heat-strengthened, wired, patterned, tinted or reflective glasses. Interlayers can be used to add colour tints and for further aesthetic and privacy needs. Architecturalglass is simple to install. If the glass is not heat treated, it can also be cut, drilled or notched.
LOW VISUAL DISTORTION
Distortion is caused by “roller waves” in tempered and heat-strengthened glass. This can be avoided by using Architectural annealed glass. Sharp reflected images are possible with curtain walls constructed of architectural annealed glass. 
Applications of Architectural Glass:
Architectural glass is widely used in manufacturing and automotive industries and in a variety of commercial and residential applications because of its safety, security, sound abatement and solar control characteristics.
In glass skylights, sunspaces, sloped glazing installations and curtain walls, there is always the possibility of glass breakage. This is why many building codes worldwide use architectural glass for overhead glazing.
It is used in schools, hospitals, hotels and office buildings, and wherever there are sound control requirements.

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