Glass & Glazing Types Chart

Quick Definitions

There are actual different definitions in terms of glass vs glazing, etc. However, in practice, many of these are used interchangeably or at least the lines blurred on accident; similar to the differences between concrete and cement.

• Glass: Term for the actual material

• Clear Glass: Mixture of silica sand and small amounts of alkaline salts such as lime, potash and soda.

• Glazing: Process of installing glass in the framing as well as the process of installing the frame itself.

  • However, can also refer to the glass that has been installed through this process.

• Energy Efficient Glazing: Products that can reduce heat loss and/or heat gain through windows. Thereby reducing the energy needed to maintain a comfortable indoor air temperature (all without significantly reducing the visible light transmitted)

• Safety Glass: Tempered or laminated glass that meets the testing requirements of 16 CFR 1201 (Code Of Federal Regulations)

Glass Types Listed

Various glass types and definitions below. These are not glass types per se, but rather various definitions that have various overlaps between them and some are even dependent/connected to others.

Float Glass / Annealed Glass

Pouring molten glass into a bed of tin and letting it cool. Most of the glass produced in the US is float glass.

Heat-strengthened Glass

Heating the glass to about 1100 degrees F and slowly cooling it.