The main concern people have with glass railings is how durable are they? Will their durability go down over the years and will safety be a concern? Glass railings are very durable and safe. The actual durability of glass railings are very comparable to steel and aluminum railings, some even being more durable than them.
What Makes Glass Railings So Strong?
The strength and durability of glass railings come from the type of glass used and the advanced manufacturing processes employed. Unlike regular glass, which is fragile and prone to shattering, glass railings are typically made from specially treated, toughened or laminated glass. This makes them much stronger and more resilient than traditional glass.
Types of Glass Used in Railings
The key to the strength of glass railings lies in the type of glass chosen for the system. There are two primary types of glass used for railings: tempered glass and laminated glass. Both offer exceptional durability and strength.
Tempered Glass
Tempered glass is made by heating the glass to very high temperatures and then rapidly cooling it. This process increases the glass’s strength significantly, making it about four to five times stronger than regular glass. The result is a material that can withstand considerable pressure and impact without breaking. If tempered glass does break, it shatters into small, blunt pieces, significantly reducing the risk of injury. Tempered glass railings are designed to withstand wind, accidental impacts, and the daily wear and tear of high-traffic areas.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass is made by bonding two or more layers of glass with a durable plastic interlayer. This design gives laminated glass its impressive strength and makes it extremely resilient to impacts. Even if the glass is cracked or shattered, the interlayer holds the pieces together, preventing them from falling or scattering. Laminated glass is particularly suitable for high-risk areas, such as poolside railings or areas exposed to heavy winds or impacts. It’s also incredibly effective in terms of sound insulation, providing additional benefits beyond durability.
How Strong and Durable Are Glass Railings?
Glass railings are much stronger and more durable than many people realize. Here are some of the key factors that contribute to their impressive strength:
Impact Resistance
One of the main concerns people have when it comes to glass railings is their ability to withstand impacts. The good news is that both tempered and laminated glass are designed to resist impacts from external forces. Whether it’s the force of a person accidentally bumping into the railing or the impact of flying debris during a storm, high-quality glass can withstand a great deal of pressure. Unlike traditional glass, which would shatter under stress, tempered and laminated glass are built to be resilient and durable.
Weather Resistance
Glass railings are not only resistant to physical impacts but also to the elements. Unlike wood or metal railings, which can deteriorate due to exposure to moisture, salt, or extreme weather conditions, glass remains unaffected by the elements. In coastal areas where saltwater can cause rusting or corrosion in other materials, glass railings are an ideal solution. They won’t rot, rust, or degrade, making them an excellent option for harsh climates, from sunny to rainy and snowy conditions.
Wind Resistance
Glass railings are also incredibly strong when it comes to withstanding high winds. In areas that experience extreme weather or coastal winds, glass railings have been tested to resist significant forces. The thickness and treatment of the glass allow it to remain intact, providing a secure barrier even in stormy conditions. Unlike metal railings that may bend or weaken over time, glass railings maintain their strength, even under pressure.
Low Maintenance and Longevity
Another reason glass railings are so durable is that they require very little maintenance. Unlike wood, which may rot or warp, or metal, which may corrode or rust, glass does not degrade over time. It’s easy to clean and maintain, and as long as the glass remains intact, it will continue to look brand new. This makes glass railings a long-term investment. Properly installed and maintained glass railings can last for decades without showing signs of wear and tear.
Conclusion
Glass railings are very durable and strong, offering a level of safety that many people don’t expect from glass. By using tempered or laminated glass, they are specifically designed to withstand strong impacts, intense weather conditions and very strong winds. Their overall strength, combined with their low maintenance and long life-span make them a very smart investment for any home or business.
If you are looking at installing glass railings for your home or business, look no further than Professional Railings, we specialize in the installation of glass and aluminum railings, guaranteeing you will be satisfied with the result. Contact us today for more information.