If you are building a new commercial structure, you will probably incorporate a lot of glass windows in the design. In general, installing plenty of glass windows is beneficial because it will promote the flow of natural light. This will minimise the demand for artificial lighting and control the electrical costs. Moreover, commercial glass windows have great visual appeal. When used correctly, the units will give the new building a sleek modern look. However, you should note that the poor choice of glazing can compromise the desired results. Here are some great tips to keep in mind before buying the glass.
Think About Insulation
Glass windows are useful and beautiful, but they make commercial buildings highly vulnerable to heat exchange. In simple terms, a lot of heat is lost and gained through the windows because the material is relatively light. This means that if you do not plan for the construction project with care, the long-term heating and cooling energy costs will be high. Therefore, you should think about choosing double-glazed windows. These will minimise the transfer of heat and minimise the electrical demands. Also, look for low-emissivity glass, which has an insulating coat.
Consider the Security
It is crucial to think about safety and security when installing commercial glass windows. You should make sure that the material is tough enough to withstand significant impact or pressure. Moreover, if the glass should break, it should not cause injuries to the people near it. There are two types of glass which can achieve this goal: laminated and toughened glass. Laminated glass is made of two pieces of glass bonded using a special interlayer. This fabrication does not only make the glass strong and durable. It prevents the shards from scattering in case of breakage. Toughened glass undergoes a unique treatment process of heating and cooling to strengthen the material. This makes it capable of bearing high stress, and it breaks into rounded pieces.
Plan for Maintenance
Finally, you should think about the maintenance of the commercial glass windows. The primary task after installation will be cleaning. Unfortunately, the work can be tough, time-consuming and expensive for both high-rise and low-rise buildings. You can eliminate this problem by opting for self-cleaning glass for your windows. This material uses the natural environment to keep the surfaces dirt-free. The natural light from the sun will cause the breakdown of deposits on the glass while the water on rainy days will wash the residues away.
If you have other special requirements, consult your glazing vendor.
