Did you know fixing up your commercial windows can cut energy costs by up to 40%? It’s a big deal, and picking the right system is super important.
If you own a business or manage a property, how your place looks and works really matters. That’s why it’s crucial to learn about different types of commercial window fixes and how they can make your building look good and save energy.
You’ll come across terms like unitized, stick-built, and structural glazing as you check out your options. Figuring out what you want for your project, like how it should look, how warm it should be, or how safe, will help you pick the best system.
So, sit back, relax, and explore the world of commercial window refurbishment with us!
A Closer Look at What Commercial Glazing Entails
Commercial glazing is simply the installation of glass in commercial buildings! It can be found in everything from storefronts and office buildings to hotels and hospitals.
Some key aspects of commercial glazing include:
- Energy Efficiency: Commercial glazing needs to provide insulation to control temperatures and reduce energy costs. Technologies like double or triple glazing are often used.
- Strength and Durability: Windows in commercial buildings require heavy-duty frames and glass to withstand weather, movement and potential impacts from cleaning or repairs.
- Maintenance Needs: Systems that minimize long-term maintenance requirements, like re-glazing, are chosen for easier upkeep and lower life-cycle costs.
- Noise Control: Sound insulation properties are essential to block exterior noise for buildings near traffic or with many occupants.
- Aesthetics: Appearance and ability to let in natural light are considerations, along with reflective coatings or tints for interior glare control.
- Safety and Security: Glazing for floors above ground level needs impact resistance and mechanisms to prevent falls. Fire safety ratings also apply.
- Low Emissions: Most commercial glazing uses sealed units and inert gas fills between panes to achieve energy efficiency while meeting environmental standards.
Breaking Down the Different Types of Commercial Glazing Systems
Commercial glazing systems encompass various types that serve different purposes and meet specific requirements in commercial buildings. Here, we will break down the different types of commercial glazing systems:
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Single Glazing
Single glazing refers to using a single glass pane in a window system. While it is a primary option, it offers benefits such as allowing natural light into the building and providing outside views. However, single glazing has limited insulation properties and can be less energy-efficient than other options.
Single glazing can be suitable for buildings in mild climates or where energy efficiency is not a primary concern. It may also be preferred when budget constraints are a significant factor.
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Double Glazing
Double glazing involves using two glass panes separated by an air or gas-filled space. This design improves thermal insulation and reduces heat loss compared to single glazing. The air or gas layer acts as a barrier, reducing the transfer of heat between the interior and exterior of the building.
Double glazing is a popular choice for buildings in moderate climates. It provides better insulation than single glazing, making it more energy-efficient. Additionally, it helps reduce noise transmission, making it suitable for areas with high traffic or noise pollution. Double glazed windows typically have a U-value of around 1.2 to 2.8 W/m²K, making them suitable for moderate climates.
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Triple Glazing
Triple glazing takes the concept of double glazing further by adding another glass pane and an additional air or gas-filled space. This extra layer enhances the insulation properties and reduces heat loss compared to single and double glazing.
Triple glazing is particularly beneficial in regions with harsh climates, where extreme cold or heat is a concern. It provides excellent thermal insulation, ensuring comfortable indoor temperatures while minimizing energy consumption.
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Tinted Glass
Tinted glass is created by adding colour to the glass during manufacturing. This type of glazing can help control the amount of sunlight and glare entering the building and provide privacy. Tinted glass also offers some level of thermal insulation.
Tinted glass is often used in buildings where excessive sunlight or glare needs to be reduced, such as offices, retail spaces, and residential buildings. It is particularly beneficial in areas with high direct sunlight or where privacy is desired.
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Reflective Glass
Reflective glass, also known as mirrored or one-way glass, has a metallic coating applied to its surface. This coating allows the glass to reflect significant sunlight and reduce heat penetration.
Reflective glass is commonly used in commercial buildings to improve energy efficiency, provide privacy, and create a sleek, modern appearance.
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Low-E Glass
Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is treated with a microscopically thin, transparent coating that reflects heat while allowing light to pass through. This coating helps to regulate indoor temperature, reduce energy consumption, and minimize UV radiation. Low-E glass is widely used in commercial buildings to enhance energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
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Switchable Glass
Switchable glass, also known as smart glass or privacy glass, can change its appearance from transparent to opaque with the flip of a switch or through automated control systems.
This versatile glass technology provides privacy on demand while still allowing natural light to enter the space. Switchable glass is commonly utilized in conference rooms, offices, and hospitality settings.
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Curtain Wall Systems
Curtain wall systems are non-structural exterior cladding systems installed on the building’s framework. Typically made of aluminium frames with glass panels, they provide a sleek, modern appearance while offering weather protection and facilitating natural light penetration.
Curtain wall systems are commonly used in commercial buildings to enhance aesthetics and thermal performance.
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Structural Glazing
Structural glazing involves attaching glass panels directly to the building’s structural framework using specialized adhesives or mechanical fixings, eliminating the need for visible framing.
This creates a seamless, frameless appearance and allows for maximum transparency. Structural glazing is often employed in contemporary architectural designs.
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Spider Glazing
Spider glazing is a structural glazing system that utilizes stainless steel point-fixing hardware to support glass panels.
The glass is connected to the structure through spider fittings, creating a visually striking and minimalist look. Spider glazing is popular in modern architecture, providing transparency, flexibility, and design versatility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many commercial forms of glass are there?
There are several common commercial glass types, including clear, tinted, reflective, tempered and laminated glass. Speciality glasses like Low-E coatings are also used widely.
What is a glazing system?
A glazing system refers to the framing and installation technique for setting glass into windows, curtain walls, sloped glazing or other openings. Some examples are unitized, stick-built, wet seal glazing and structural glazing systems.
What glass is used for commercial windows?
Toughened glass is commonly used for commercial windows. It is stronger and more durable than regular glass, making it safer and more resistant to breakage.
Conclusion
Commercial Window Refurbishment can transform the look of any workspace. Whether you need new glass, improved seals or repaired frames, taking care of windows is worth the cost.
Refurbishing windows with modern glazing systems can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a facility, making it appear more contemporary and welcoming to clients and staff. Most importantly, fixed windows mean lower energy bills and a more sustainable building for years ahead.
With the right professionals, a refurbishment brings windows back to like-new condition.
