Laminated Vs. Tempered Glass Windows

When choosing windows for protection against violent weather like storms, tornadoes and hurricanes, consider the pros and cons of laminated and tempered glass windows.

Laminated Windows

Laminated tempered glass windows are constructed by placing a thin layer of plastic laminate material over glass panes. Usually there are 2 layers of glass to create a thicker, stronger window. When the glass breaks, the pieces of glass hold together behind the layer of laminate.

Laminated windows are considered extremely safe as they do not shatter easily and prevent damage from flying objects. They protect from minor explosions and are considered to be highly effective in preventing theft, since they require a great deal of effort (and noise) to break.  For homes in highly noisy environments, laminated windows also provide a high level of soundproofing and make for a quiet home interior.

Tempered Glass Windows

Tempered glass windows are easy to break when compared to laminate windows. When the glass breaks, it forms small pebbles of glass, making it dangerous to walk near. Tempered glass is created by adding a chemical component that makes the glass easy to shatter in an emergency. These types of windows tend to be less expensive than laminated windows, but may need to be replaced more often, particularly if installed in a region prone to violent weather.