tempered glass – artistry-in-glass

What is tempered glass? Find out from a glass professional!

by John

Tempered glass is used for shower and patio doors, tabletops, and windows throughout our homes & businesses. But what is tempered glass and how is it made? Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that is stronger than annealed glass and also safer – because when broken it forms harmless popcorn fragments. Tempered glass, sometimes called “toughened” glass is made by heating annealed glass to about 1200 °F (650 °C) – a temperature at which it begins to soften. The outer surfaces are then cooled rapidly creating a solid skin of glass surrounding the still hot center. This procedure, … Read more

What is safety glass & why is it important?

by John

Glass is an amazing substance with countless uses in residential and commercial buildings. However, it has one major drawback – it is brittle and breaks into razor-sharp shards that are very dangerous and even life-threatening. For this reason, several types of so-called “safety” glass have been engineered to lessen the risks of injuries. So, what is safety glass & why is it important? Safety glass is specially engineered to prevent serious injuries caused by razor-sharp shards of annealed glass. The two main types are tempered and laminated. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases Artistry in Glass cannot … Read more

Can tempered glass be cut? Reliable facts from an expert!

by John

Tempered glass breaks into popcorn fragments

Tempered glass is 4 to 5 times stronger than regular annealed glass and is used for shower and patio doors and anywhere in the home where safety is necessary. However, it cannot be cut, notched, or drilled once tempered. Many misleading websites claim that tempered glass can be cut – but this is not true – if you try to cut or drill tempered glass it will explode into pieces. Can tempered glass be cut? NO! The ludicrous idea suggested by such prestigious websites as WikiHow is that you should: “Gain access to a kiln that you can use to … Read more

How to tell if glass is tempered – expert info from a pro!

by John

Chipped corners in annealed and tempered glass

Tempered glass is used for shower and patio doors because it is strong and safe, But, once tempered, glass can’t be cut, polished, or drilled, So, if you want to cut your glass, how do tell if it is tempered? Discover the facts from a glass professional. Very confusing websites give bad advice on how to identify tempered glass and even claim that tempered glass can be cut. We expose these ill-informed and confusing claims with definitive information from a 37-year glass professional. To identify tempered glass look for a logo, view under polarized light, examine the corners & edgework, … Read more

Should glass tabletops be tempered – learn from a scientist!

by John

Patio glass tabletops should always be tempered. Protective glass tabletops may or may not be tempered, & heavy glass tops generally do not need to be tempered

Protecting a wood table with glass – discover the benefits!

by John

You are proud of your cherished antique dining table or sideboard – how do you make sure the wooden surface is not ruined by careless guests or family members? Wood is soft, porous, and flammable so can easily be scratched, stained, or scorched, A protective glass tabletop is the best way to avoid damaging your treasured furniture. Glass tabletops are safe, affordable, protective, and easy to maintain & replace. Read about the benefits of glass tops in this post. Table of contents All about protective glass tabletops Protective glass is a great way to safeguard your expensive furniture. It can … Read more

How to replace broken patio table glass – expert advice

by John

Patio tables are at the center of outdoor entertaining – but glass is brittle and occasionally gets busted by careless teenagers or high winds. If your patio table glass breaks – what should you do? Learn how to replace broken patio table glass in this informative article. To replace broken patio table glass, measure the table, choose your glass (aquatex or clear) & order from your retailer specifying tempered with seamed edges. Outdoor furniture has been popular since way back in Egyptian, Greek, and Roman times allowing privileged citizens to take their leisure al fresco. In recent years a new … Read more

How to protect stained glass windows in religious buildings

by John

You are worried about vandals damaging valuable stained glass windows in your place of worship. What is the best way to protect stained glass windows in religious buildings? Should you use acrylic, plexiglass, Lexan, tempered, or laminated glass? Explore the complex details in this post. Extremely valuable & vulnerable stained glass should be protected with Lexan or acrylic, but glass (laminated or tempered) can be used for panels at less risk. Always consult experts for the best advice. Table of contents Beautiful stained glass windows have inspired congregations in churches and synagogues since the Middle ages – communicating the parables … Read more