Glass, Stainless and Aluminium Railings: What to Know Before Ordering
How to choose glass, stainless or aluminium railings for balconies, terraces and stairs: materials, safety glass, measurement and what to ask.
Glazing
Laminated or Tempered Glass? Which Is Safer
Comparison
| Criteria | Laminated (triplex) | Tempered |
|---|---|---|
| How it’s made | Two or more panes bonded with an interlayer | Glass heat-treated after cutting |
| When it breaks | Fragments stay bonded to the interlayer | Breaks into small pieces |
| Strength | Stays in place even after breaking | Higher impact resistance |
| Typical use | Doors, windows, balustrades, facades | Doors and balustrades |
What to know before ordering
- Tempered glass cannot be cut after tempering. Dimensions must be exact before production: one more reason for on-site measurement and an approved specification sheet.
- For doors, balustrades and balconies ask your designer or architect which type the project requires.
- Combinations with acoustic, Low-E or solar-control glass depend on the system: see double or triple glazing.
Where it is used at Apex Frames
Laminated and tempered glass is used in entrance doors, sliding doors, facades and safety-glass balustrades. Railings and balustrades are made to on-site measurements and the architectural design: see stainless, aluminium and glass railings.
Common mistakes
- Ordering tempered glass without exact measurements, since it can no longer be cut.
- Assuming every glass is safety glass.
- Ignoring project and building-rule requirements for doors and balustrades.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell tempered glass from ordinary glass?
It usually carries an etched mark in a corner from the manufacturer. Look for it in the order documentation.
Can tempered glass be cut on site?
No. After tempering, glass cannot be cut, so measurements must be accurate before ordering.
Is tempered glass safer than laminated?
There is no single answer: tempered is more impact-resistant, while laminated holds fragments together; they are often combined.
Can laminated glass be used on a balcony?
Yes, the type is chosen according to the project and building rules; ask your designer.
