Laminated Glass vs Double-Glazed Glass: Which Is Better?

November 11, 2024

Key Takeaways

Laminated glass is made by bonding layers of glass with an interlayer for safety and soundproofing.
Double-glazed glass consists of two panes of glass with a space between them, for superior thermal insulation.
Laminated glass is ideal for security-focused applications and noise-sensitive environments.
Double-glazed glass improves energy efficiency and is more cost-effective.
Panda Windows & Doors offers expert consultation and high-quality, custom glass solutions.

What is Laminated Glass?

Laminated glass is a type of safety glass that remains intact even when shattered. This is achieved by bonding multiple layers of glass together with an interlayer, usually made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This interlayer holds the layers together.

Composition and Structure

The composition of laminated glass is quite simple but highly effective. It involves layering two or more sheets of glass with one or more interlayers. The interlayers are typically made of PVB or EVA, which are known for their durability and adhesive properties. This multi-layered structure makes laminated glass incredibly strong and resistant to impact.

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process of laminated glass starts with cleaning glass sheets to remove any impurities. Next, the interlayer material is placed between the glass sheets. The assembly is then subjected to heat and pressure in an autoclave, which bonds the layers together, creating a single, cohesive piece of glass.

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Advantages & Disadvantages of Laminated Glass

Advantages

Safety and Security

One of the most significant advantages of laminated glass is its safety. The interlayer holds the glass fragments together even when shattered, reducing the risk of injury from sharp glass shards.

UV Protection

The interlayer can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays, protecting your interiors from fading and damage caused by prolonged sun exposure.

Soundproofing

Another notable advantage of laminated glass is its soundproofing capabilities. The interlayer acts as a sound barrier, significantly reducing indoor noise levels.

Energy Efficiency

The multi-layered structure of laminated glass also contributes to its energy efficiency. It provides better insulation, helping to keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This saves money on heating and cooling.

Disadvantages

Cost

Laminated glass is more expensive than standard glass because of its complex manufacturing process and multi-layered structure. However, the benefits often justify the higher cost.

Weight

Laminated glass is heavier than standard glass and requires stronger framing and hardware.

What is Double-Glazed Glass?

Double-glazed glass, also known as insulated glass, consists of two panes of glass with a space between them. This space is usually filled with air or an inert gas like argon. This type of glass is known for its excellent thermal insulation and energy efficiency.

Composition and Structure

The structure of double-glazed glass is straightforward yet highly effective. It involves two panes of glass separated by a spacer, creating an insulating gap. This gap can be filled with air or an inert gas to improve insulation. The edges are sealed to prevent moisture and air from entering the space between the panes.

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process of double-glazed glass involves several steps:

Cleaning the glass panes to remove any impurities
Applying a spacer to create the insulating gap
Filling the gap with air or an inert gas
Sealing the edges to prevent moisture and air infiltration

Both laminated and double-glazed glass will keep the indoors at a comfortable temperature in any weather.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Double-Glazed Glass

Advantages

Thermal Insulation

One benefit of double-glazed glass is its superior thermal insulation. The space between the two panes acts as an insulating barrier, reducing heat transfer. This helps keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer and results in significant energy savings.

Noise Reduction

Double-glazed glass also excels in noise reduction. The insulating gap between the panes acts as a sound barrier, reducing the amount of external noise that enters your home. This makes it an excellent choice for homes located in noisy areas or near busy streets.

Cost-Effectiveness

Although double-glazed glass has a higher initial cost compared to standard glass, its energy-saving benefits can lead to long-term cost savings.

Disadvantages

Seal Failure

Seal failure is one of the most common issues with double-glazed glass. Over time, the seals around the edges can deteriorate, allowing moisture to enter the insulating gap. This can lead to condensation between the panes and a reduction in insulating performance.

Condensation Issues

Condensation can be a significant problem with double-glazed glass, especially if the seals fail. Moisture trapped between the panes can cause fogging and reduce visibility. It can also lead to mold growth, which can be detrimental to your health and the durability of the window.

Laminated Glass vs Double-Glazed Glass

When choosing between laminated glass and double-glazed glass, several factors come into play. Let’s compare these two types of glass based on different criteria to help you make an informed decision.

Criteria	Laminated Glass	Double-Glazed Glass
Safety	High – holds together when shattered	Moderate – can shatter
Thermal Insulation	Moderate	High
Soundproofing	High	Moderate
UV Protection	High	Low
Cost	High	Moderate

Energy Efficiency

Both laminated glass and double-glazed glass offer energy efficiency benefits, but they achieve this in different ways. Laminated glass provides moderate insulation due to its multi-layered structure, while double-glazed glass offers superior insulation thanks to the insulating gap between the panes.

Insulation Comparison

When it comes to insulation, double-glazed glass outperforms laminated glass. The gap between the panes in double-glazed glass acts as an effective barrier against heat transfer, making it more efficient at maintaining indoor temperatures. This can lead to significant energy savings, especially in extreme climates.

Cost Considerations

Cost is another crucial factor to consider when choosing between laminated and double-glazed glass. While laminated glass tends to be more expensive due to its complex manufacturing process, double-glazed glass offers a more cost-effective solution with long-term energy savings.

Ideal Uses for Laminated Glass

Security-Focused Applications

Laminated glass is an excellent choice for security-focused applications. The interlayer holds the glass together even when it is shattered, reducing the risk of injury and making it difficult for intruders to gain access. This makes laminated glass ideal for storefronts, banks, and other high-security areas.

Noise-Sensitive Environments

Laminated glass is also perfect for noise-sensitive environments. The interlayer acts as a sound barrier, reducing the amount of external noise that enters the building. This makes laminated glass an excellent choice for homes and offices located near busy streets, airports, or other noisy areas.

Ideal Uses for Double-Glazed Glass

Energy Efficiency Goals

If your primary goal is to improve energy efficiency, double-glazed glass is the best choice. The insulating gap between the panes reduces heat transfer, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduce energy bills. This makes double-glazed glass an excellent choice for homes and buildings in extreme climates.

Residential and Commercial Uses

Double-glazed glass is also ideal for both residential and commercial uses. Its superior thermal insulation and energy efficiency make it a popular choice for windows, doors, skylights, and conservatories in homes and commercial buildings.

The Panda Windows & Doors range of products allows you to let the outside in—flooding your home with natural light.

Making the Right Choice With Panda Windows & Doors

Choosing the right type of glass for your windows and doors is important, and Panda Windows & Doors is here to help. We offer expert consultation, customization options, and high-quality products.

Expert Consultation

Our team can guide you through the advantages and disadvantages of laminated and double-glazed glass and help you make an informed decision.

Customization Options

We offer a wide range of customization options to ensure your windows and doors meet your exact specifications.

Quality and Warranty

At Panda Windows & Doors, we pride ourselves on the quality of our products. Our glass solutions are designed to meet the highest standards of performance and durability and are backed by comprehensive warranties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the lifespan for both glass types?

Laminated glass and double-glazed glass both have long lifespans when installed and maintained correctly. Laminated glass can last for many years due to its durable interlayer, while double-glazed glass can also last for decades if the seals remain intact.

Which is more cost-effective in the long run?

Double-glazed glass is generally more cost-effective in the long run due to its superior thermal insulation and energy-saving benefits. However, laminated glass offers added benefits such as safety, security, and soundproofing, which can justify its higher initial cost.

Can laminated glass be used in all window types?

Yes, laminated glass can be used in various window types, including fixed, sliding, and casement windows. Its versatility and added benefits make it an excellent choice for many applications.

What is the average lead time for Panda Windows & Doors products?

The average lead time for Panda Windows & Doors products is 8 to 12 weeks depending on the chosen product and customization options.

Which is the best type of glass for extreme weather conditions?

For extreme weather conditions, double-glazed glass is often the best choice due to its superior thermal insulation. It helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, reducing the need for heating and cooling.