How Much Does Tempered Glass Cost? | Sept 2024 Price Guide

Tempered glass is a type of glass that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Unlike traditional or regular glass, tempered glass is stronger and more durable, making it an excellent choice for applications where safety is a concern. The process of creating tempered glass involves heating float glass to a high temperature and then rapidly cooling it. This creates a sheet of glass that is four to five times stronger than regular glass.

One of the main benefits of tempered glass is its safety features. The edges of tempered glass are designed to be safer than regular glass, as they are less likely to break into sharp pieces that can cause injury. This makes tempered glass an ideal choice for shower doors, Glass balustrades, table tops, and other applications where people may come into contact with the edges.

When purchasing tempered glass for a project, there are several factors to consider that can affect the cost. For example, the size of the sheet needed for the project will impact the price. If using the tempered glass in a frame or table top, this will also impact the cost. Other factors such as time required to create edges (processing) can also influence pricing.

If you're looking for an example of how tempered glass can be used in everyday life, consider shower glass enclosures or round or circular-shaped pieces like those found on coffee tables or end tables. These types of shapes require specialized cutting techniques that add additional costs compared to standard rectangular sheets.

Understanding the Cost of Tempered Glass vs Other Glass Types

Higher Cost of Tempered Glass: Understanding the Price Difference

Tempered glass is a popular choice for various applications, such as windows, doors, shower enclosures, and furniture. This type of glass is known for its strength and safety features, making it an ideal option for high-traffic areas or places where breakage can pose a risk. However, tempered glass is generally more expensive than other glass types due to its unique manufacturing process and added benefits.

The Manufacturing Process

One of the reasons why tempered glass costs more than regular glass types is because of its manufacturing process. Unlike standard annealed glass that cools slowly after being heated in an oven, tempered glass undergoes rapid heating and cooling to increase its strength. This process involves heating the glass to over 600 degrees Celsius before quickly cooling it with compressed air. The result is a piece of glass that's up to five times stronger than regular annealed glass.

Added Safety Features

Another reason why tempered glass has a higher cost compared to other types of glasses is due to its added safety features. Tempered glass breaks into small pieces when shattered instead of large shards that can cause serious injuries. This feature makes it a safer option for applications such as car windows or shower doors where people may be in close proximity if breakage occurs.

Cost vs Long-Term Savings

While tempered glass may have a higher upfront cost compared to other types of glasses like laminated or insulated ones, it can save money in the long run by being more durable and resistant to breakage. Tempered glass can withstand higher impacts without breaking or cracking easily, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Since tempered glass shatters into small pieces instead of sharp shards when broken, there's less risk of injury or property damage.

Factors Affecting Tempered Glass Window Cost

The cost of tempered glass windows varies depending on several factors such as size, thickness, and any additional features or customization options. Larger windows or those with custom shapes or designs will cost more than standard-sized ones. The thickness of the glass also plays a role in the price, with thicker glass being more expensive. Additional features like low-E coatings or sound insulation can add to the overall cost as well.

When Comparing Tempered Glass to Other Glass Types

When comparing the cost of tempered glass to other types of glasses, it's important to consider factors such as energy efficiency, sound insulation, and overall durability to determine the best value for your specific needs. Laminated glass is another popular option that provides added safety features similar to tempered glass but at a lower cost. Insulated glass, on the other hand, offers better thermal insulation and noise reduction but may not be as strong as tempered or laminated glass.

Made-to-Measure Tempered Glass: What You Need to Know

There is no one-size-fits-all solution. That's why made-to-measure tempered glass has become increasingly popular in recent years. This product can be cut to the exact size and shape that your needs require, making it a versatile option for a wide range of applications.

Accurate Measurements and Technical Drawings

One of the most important things to consider when ordering made-to-measure tempered glass is providing accurate measurements and technical drawings. These will ensure that the product fits perfectly in your space, whether you're using it for windows, doors, shower enclosures or other applications.

When measuring for tempered glass, be sure to measure twice and cut once. Take precise measurements of both height and width, as well as any angles or curves that may be present. It's also important to provide a technical drawing that includes all necessary dimensions and specifications.

Customizing Your Look with Bevelled Edges and Square Tops

In addition to being able to customize the size and shape of your tempered glass, you can also choose from a variety of customization options for its appearance. Two common options are bevelled edges and square tops.

Bevelled edges are created by cutting the edge of the glass at an angle, creating a polished look that adds depth and dimensionality. This option is ideal for those who want their tempered glass to have a more elegant appearance.

Square tops are another popular choice for customizing your tempered glass. They create a clean-cut look that is perfect for modern or minimalist designs. Whether you choose bevelled edges or square tops (or both), these customization options can help make your tempered glass truly unique.

Delivery Options: Buying Online with Delivery Across the UK

Finally, when it comes time to order your made-to-measure tempered glass, delivery options will vary depending on where you purchase from. However, many companies offer online ordering with delivery to anywhere in the United Kingdom. Pricing is typically based on the square meter (m2) of glass needed.

Buying online can be a convenient option for those who want to avoid the hassle of visiting a physical store. It also allows you to compare prices and products from multiple vendors before making your final decision.

The Advantages of Installing Tempered Glass in Your Home or Business

Safety and security are top priorities for any home or business owner. One way to ensure that your property is protected is by installing tempered glass in windows, doors, and splash backs. Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that is four times stronger than conventional glass, making it an ideal option for those who want added protection without sacrificing style. In this section, we will discuss the advantages of installing tempered glass in your home or business.

Added Safety and Security

One of the most significant benefits of using tempered glass in your windows and doors is its superior strength. Unlike conventional glass, which can shatter into large, sharp pieces upon impact, tempered glass is designed to break into small, less dangerous pieces when broken. This means that if someone were to accidentally break a window or door made from tempered glass, they would be less likely to suffer serious injuries from flying shards.

Heat Resistance

Another advantage of using tempered glass in your home or business is its ability to withstand high levels of heat. This makes it an excellent choice for windows in areas with direct sunlight or near heat sources like ovens or stoves. Tempered glass can also be used as a splash back behind kitchen counters or bathroom vanities since it can handle the heat generated by cooking appliances and hair dryers.

Clear Quality

When you choose tempered glass for your windows and doors, you can expect clear and consistent quality every time. Unlike other types of safety glasses that may have slight variations in their composition or manufacturing process, tempered glass undergoes rigorous testing to ensure uniformity in strength and durability. Experienced professionals handle the delivery and installation process with care to ensure reliable service.

Cost-Effective Option

While the cost of tempered glass may vary depending on job requirements and window frames' size and shape, it can be a cost-effective option compared to other types of safety glasses available on the market today. The price is typically calculated per square foot but may be worth the investment for the added protection and peace of mind it provides.

Comparing Prices between Toughened and Laminated Glass

Toughened glass and laminated glass are two popular types of safety glass used in various settings such as homes, offices, and automobiles. While both types offer enhanced protection against breakage compared to regular glass, they differ in terms of strength, durability, and price. In this section, we will discuss the differences in prices between toughened glass and laminated glass.

Toughened Glass: Higher Strength Comes at a Cost

Toughened or tempered glass is made by heating ordinary annealed glass to high temperatures and then rapidly cooling it using compressed air. This process strengthens the glass by creating tension on its surface while leaving the core under compression. As a result, toughened glass is up to five times stronger than regular annealed glass and can withstand greater pressure before breaking into small blunt pieces.

However, this added strength comes at a cost. Toughened glass is generally more expensive than laminated or annealed glass due to the additional manufacturing steps involved in its production. The prices for toughened glass can vary depending on factors such as size, thickness, and whether or not polished edges are required.

For example, Express Toughening offers a price list for both clear and coloured 6mm toughened glasses with options for dubbed corners or cutouts for sockets. Prices range from £36 per square meter (for clear 6mm thick toughened) to £130 per square meter (for coloured 6mm thick toughened).

Laminated Glass: A Cheaper Alternative

Laminated or laminate safety glass consists of two or more layers of ordinary annealed glasses bonded together with an interlayer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) resin. Unlike toughened glass that shatters into small pieces upon impact, laminated glasses hold together even when broken thanks to their interlayer that keeps the fragments intact.

Laminated glasses are often cheaper than toughened glass due to their simpler manufacturing process that involves sandwiching two or more annealed glasses with a PVB interlayer. However, laminated glasses may not be as strong or durable in certain situations such as high-pressure areas.

Express Toughening offers a price list for clear and coloured 6mm laminated glass with options for dubbed corners or cutouts for sockets. Prices range from £26 per square meter (for clear 6mm thick laminated) to £100 per square meter (for coloured 6mm thick laminated).

Factors That Influence the Cost of Tempered Glass

Size and Thickness of the Glass

The size and thickness of tempered glass are among the primary factors that affect its cost. Generally, the larger and thicker the glass, the more expensive it becomes. This is because manufacturing larger pieces of tempered glass requires a higher level of precision, which increases production costs. Thicker glass requires more raw materials to produce, which contributes to its higher price.

Tempered Glass common Thickness

The most common thickness of glass in the UK can be found below. The thickness of 15mm and 19mm glass are generally used for structural canopies, walk on glass whereas 3mm glass would be used for greenhouses etc and 8mm and 10mm would be used for shower screens, shower doors ect.

4mm tempered class and 6mm tempered glass you can fins in most single and double glazed windows and door where regulations require tempered glass as a safety requirement.

• 3mm Tempered Glass
• 4mm Tempered Glass
• 6mm Tempered Glass
• 8mm Tempered Glass
• 10mm Tempered Glass
• 12mm Tempered Glass
• 15mm Tempered Glass
• 19mm Tempered Glass

Complexity of Shape and Design

Another factor that influences the cost of tempered glass is its shape and design complexity. A simple square or rectangular piece is relatively straightforward to manufacture compared to curved or irregularly shaped pieces. The latter requires additional steps during production, such as cutting and shaping using specialized machinery.

Moreover, designing custom patterns or etchings on tempered glass also adds to its overall cost. For instance, if you require a specific logo or design etched onto your tempered glass shower door or partition wall, expect to pay extra for this customization.

Additional Features

Tempered glass can also come with additional features that add to its final cost. Edging is one such feature; it involves smoothing out the edges of the glass after tempering for safety purposes. Drilling holes in your tempered glass panel for mounting hardware is another feature that may increase its price.

Tinting is yet another option that can add value but at an added expense. Tinted tempered glass has various benefits like reduced glare from sunlight and improved privacy levels in certain applications like office partitions and conference rooms.

Quantity Ordered

Lastly, quantity ordered impacts how much each unit costs when purchasing large quantities of tempered glasses in bulk orders; suppliers often offer discounts based on volume purchases made by customers. This means that the cost per unit of tempered glass decreases as the quantity ordered increases.

For example, ordering ten pieces of tempered glass panels may cost less per unit than purchasing a single panel at a time. Therefore, if you need to install several tempered glass windows or doors in your home or office, consider placing a bulk order to save on costs.

How to Choose the Right Thickness for Your Tempered Glass Panels

Consider the Application and Location of the Tempered Glass Panels

When choosing the right thickness for your tempered glass panels, it's important to consider the application and location where they will be installed. If you're installing glass panels in an area with high traffic or where there's a risk of impact, such as a storefront or balcony railing, then thicker glass panels are recommended. On the other hand, if you're installing glass panels in an area with lower risk of impact, such as a shower enclosure or tabletop, then thinner glass panels may suffice.

The Most Common Thicknesses for Tempered Glass Panels

The most common thicknesses for tempered glass panels are 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2". Thicker glass panels offer higher resistance to impact and can support more weight than thinner ones. For instance, if you're installing a balcony railing that needs to withstand strong winds and heavy loads, then a 1/2" thick tempered glass panel would be appropriate. However, if you're installing a shower enclosure that won't be subjected to much force or weight, then a 1/4" thick tempered glass panel would work well.

Thicker Glass Panels vs. Thinner Glass Panels

Thicker glass panels have several advantages over thinner ones. They offer better resistance to impact and can support more weight without breaking. This makes them ideal for applications where safety is paramount, such as balconies or railings on upper floors of buildings. Thicker glass panels provide better sound insulation than thinner ones due to their increased mass.

On the other hand, thinner glass panels have their own set of benefits. They are lighter in weight and easier to handle during installation. They also tend to be less expensive than thicker ones due to their reduced material costs. Thinner glass panels are suitable for smaller applications where there is less risk of impact.

Consult with a Professional

Choosing the right thickness for your tempered glass panels can be a daunting task. It's important to consult with a professional to ensure that you're selecting the appropriate thickness for your specific application and location. A professional can provide guidance on factors such as wind loads, weight limits, and safety requirements to help you make an informed decision.

Where to Buy Made-to-Measure Tempered Glass

Local glass shops and home improvement stores offer made-to-measure tempered glass

If you're looking for made-to-measure tempered glass, showerglass.co.uk is a great place to start. showerglass.co.uk has a variety of options available, ranging from different sizes and thicknesses to various types of glass. They also have a handy calculator for instant tempered glass prices Glass shops can also provide custom cuts and shapes to fit your specific needs.

When ordering from a local store, it's important to bring accurate measurements of the space where the glass will be installed. This ensures that the final product fits correctly and reduces the risk of any accidents or breakages. These stores may offer installation services or recommendations for trusted contractors in the area.

Online retailers such as Amazon, Home Depot, and Lowe's also provide made-to-measure tempered glass

Online retailers like Amazon, Home Depot, and Lowe's have become increasingly popular options for purchasing made-to-measure tempered glass. These retailers offer a wide range of sizes and thicknesses, as well as different types of tempered glass such as clear or frosted.

One advantage of shopping online is the ability to compare prices and read reviews from other customers who have purchased similar products. However, it's crucial to ensure accurate measurements are provided when ordering online since returns can be more difficult than in-store purchases.

Glass manufacturers like PRL Glass Systems and Guardian Glass offer made-to-measure tempered glass for commercial and residential purposes

For more specialized needs or larger projects like commercial buildings or high-end homes, working directly with a manufacturer may be ideal. Companies like Bespokeglassonline.co.uk and Guardian Glass specialise in producing high-quality tempered glass for both commercial and residential purposes.

Working with a manufacturer allows for more customization options such as unique shapes or designs that may not be available through traditional retail channels. It also provides access to expert advice on selecting the right type of tempered glass for your specific application.

Custom glass companies like Shower Glass and Bespoke Glass online specialise in made-to-measure tempered glass for various applications

Custom glass companies like Shower Glass or Bespoke Glass Online offer a wide range of made-to-measure tempered glass options for various applications. These companies often have an extensive selection of sizes, thicknesses, and types of tempered glass available.

In addition to standard options, custom glass companies can also provide unique designs or finishes such as etching or sandblasting. They may also offer installation services or recommendations for trusted contractors in the area.

Tips for Maintaining Your Tempered Glass Panels

Soft Cloth is Your Best Friend

To maintain the pristine look of your tempered glass panels, it's important to clean them regularly. Using a soft cloth is essential to prevent scratches and damage on the surface. A microfiber cloth or a lint-free cloth will work best in removing dust and dirt buildup from your glass panels.

When wiping down your glass panels, make sure to use gentle strokes in one direction. Avoid circular motions as they can cause streaks on the surface. If there are stubborn stains or smudges that won't come off with just a dry cloth, you can dampen the cloth with water or a mild soap solution.

Abrasive Cleaners Are Not Recommended

It's important to note that using abrasive cleaners or materials such as steel wool pads or rough sponges can scratch and damage your tempered glass panels. These materials can leave permanent marks on the surface of your glass panel, making it look dull and unattractive.

If you accidentally use an abrasive cleaner on your glass panel, don't panic. You may still be able to restore its shine by using a glass polishing guide specifically designed for tempered glass surfaces. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to remove scratches from your tempered glass panel without causing further damage.

Vinegar Solution for Easy Cleaning

For an easy and effective way to clean your tempered glass panels, mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray this solution onto the surface of your glass panel and wipe it down with a soft cloth afterwards.

Vinegar is known for its cleaning properties, making it an excellent choice for keeping your tempered glass panels looking their best. This solution is also safe for use around children and pets since it doesn't contain any harsh chemicals.

Handle With Care

Tempered glass panels are known for their durability but they can still shatter if mishandled. When transporting or installing these panels, make sure to handle them with care and avoid dropping or hitting them against hard surfaces.

If you notice any chips or cracks on your tempered glass panel, it's important to replace it as soon as possible. These damages can weaken the structure of your glass panel, making it more prone to shattering in the future.

Is Tempered Glass Worth the Investment?

Tempered glass is a popular choice for both residential and commercial projects due to its strength, durability, and safety features. But with any investment, it's important to weigh the benefits against the cost. So, is tempered glass worth the investment?

Firstly, let's consider the advantages of tempered glass. It's four to five times stronger than regular annealed glass and can withstand high impacts without shattering into dangerous shards. This makes it an excellent choice for areas where safety is a concern, such as shower enclosures or balcony railings.

In addition to its strength, tempered glass is also highly resistant to thermal stress and can withstand temperature changes up to 250 degrees Celsius. This means it won't crack or break due to sudden changes in temperature, making it ideal for use in kitchen appliances like oven doors.

But what about the cost? Tempered glass typically costs more than regular annealed glass or laminated glass due to its manufacturing process. However, when you factor in its longevity and safety features, many would argue that it's worth the investment.

When comparing prices between toughened and laminated glass, it's important to note that while laminated glass may be cheaper initially, it doesn't offer the same level of impact resistance as tempered glass. It also has a shorter lifespan compared to tempered glass.

Factors that influence the cost of tempered glass include size, thickness and customization options like edge finishes or drill holes. While made-to-measure tempered glass may come at a higher price point than standard sizes, it ensures a perfect fit for your project and minimizes waste.

In terms of maintenance, tempered glass requires little upkeep beyond regular cleaning with soap and water. Its scratch-resistant surface also makes it an excellent choice for high traffic areas like storefronts or tabletops.

Ultimately, whether or not tempered glass is worth the investment depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize safety and durability over initial cost savings, then tempered glass may be the right choice for you.