Identifying Types of Glass
Identifying the type of glass you have can be important for understanding its properties, such as energy efficiency, safety, and durability. Here’s how to determine what type of glass is installed in your windows:
1. Look for Manufacturer’s Labels or Etchings
Many types of glass have small etchings or labels in the corner that indicate their specifications:
• Tempered Glass: Will typically have a stamp or label that says “Tempered” or “Safety Glass,” often with a certification like “ANSI” (American National Standards Institute).
• Laminated Glass: May have an etching indicating “Laminated” or “Lami,” especially if used in windshields or safety installations. The presence of a plastic interlayer between the panes can be confirmed by checking the edges.
• Low-E Glass: Energy-efficient Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass often comes with labels specifying the type, indicating it reflects UV and infrared light while allowing visible light in.
2. Use a UV Light
Low-E glass can be identified using a UV light. When you shine UV light on the glass:
• If the glass blocks most of the UV light, it’s likely Low-E glass.
• You can also check for a bluish or greenish tint, common in Low-E coatings.
3. Visual Inspection and Touch
• Single vs. Double Pane: You can tell whether you have single or double-pane windows by looking at the glass edges or pressing lightly. Double-pane windows will have two panes of glass separated by a small space filled with air or gas (like argon).
• Tinted Glass: If the glass has a visible tint (gray, bronze, green), it is likely tinted to reduce heat gain or glare.
4. Conduct a Sound Test
Laminated glass is often quieter than regular glass because of its internal plastic interlayer. You can tap on the glass to check—laminated glass will have a slightly duller sound compared to clear or tempered glass.
5. Heat Sensitivity Test
Tempered glass is designed to withstand higher temperatures and is often used in areas like shower doors or near stoves. You can check for the thermal resistance by the application area—where tempered glass is mandated by building codes.
6. Contact the Manufacturer
If you can’t find markings on the glass, try contacting the window or door manufacturer. They might be able to tell you what kind of glass was used based on the product model or installation year.
7. Seek Professional Inspection
For specific needs like determining whether glass is Low-E or impact-resistant, hiring a glazing professional or using glass testing tools can provide a definitive answer.
By using these methods, you should be able to determine the type of glass you have and better understand its features, such as safety, energy efficiency, and noise reduction.