Requirements, Applications & Benefits of Commercial Glazing

  • Commercial glazing is relatively similar to residential glazing, except this type of glazing is installed on a commercial property. Since most commercial properties are quite large scale, a different glazing process is required, meaning that it is subject to different regulations and performance standards. Projects of this stature require significantly more glass and the process is far more complex. Commercial glazing companies even use special equipment to ensure a safe and secure installation process. (Information source: https://www.randburg-glass.co.za/)

    The requirements of commercial glazing

    In terms of the essential requirements of commercial glazing, the buildings are subject to strict health and safety regulations. Commercial buildings are responsible for all occupants within the building. Therefore, before the construction of the building is completed, stringent inspections are done on the commercial glazing to determine whether it is safe enough for use. In order for the commercial glazing to comply with the necessary regulations, it must regulate solar energy transmissions within the building, as well as withstand harsh weather conditions.

    In terms of the regulation of solar energy transmissions, most buildings, whether an office, school or apartment, generate vast amounts of internal heat. To combat this, these large-scale buildings will often have some form of cooling system installed within the building to regulate the temperature. Whereas, solar control commercial glazing can do just that, limiting the amount of natural heat entering the building.

    As large-scale buildings generally reach further vertically, they are more inclined to experience stronger weather conditions. Therefore, the commercial glazing in high-rise buildings need to have high weather performance properties and be capable of withstanding said unfavourable weather, such as strong winds and fluctuations in temperature, to name a few.

    The applications of commercial glazing

    There are several different types of applications for commercial glass, both interior and exterior, that contribute to the two above-mentioned requirements for commercial glazing. While these may be purely for aesthetic reasons, they do also provide some functional advantages to commercial buildings. In terms of a building’s interior, the applications for commercial glazing can range from custom mirrors to skylights. Some other interior applications include, but aren’t limited to, door closures, flooring, railings, shelving, etc. The exterior applications for commercial glazing are slightly more complex and require specialist training and equipment. Some exterior applications include windows, curtain walls, security glass, entrance doors, etc.

    The advantages of commercial glazing

    One of the main advantages of commercial glazing is its thermal insulation abilities. As mentioned above, it is able to regulate the temperature within the building, whether preventing heat loss or keeping the space cooler. Another benefit of an all-glass building is the aesthetic appeal and natural light. While commercial glazing offers a striking and elegant design, it also provides the occupants within the building with increased natural lighting, meaning less artificial lighting is required. Thereby, acting as a cost-saving, as the energy bill will be greatly reduced. Natural light also makes an office space feel more comfortable to work in, as your eyes are less strained by the artificial light.