Safety Glass For Rooflights, Conservatories & Canopies
Selecting the right choice of glass for a conservatory, roof light, commercial atrium or other overhead glazing installation is paramount in determining a comfortable environment within the building whatever the weather outside.
From long experience, Lonsdale has worked with major glass manufacturers to determine the very best, high performance specification and glass combinations. For domestic projects price remains an important consideration, so we have sourced the best performing glass types at sensible prices to give excellent all year round comfort. Commercial projects may have different considerations, but again we place emphasis on best value and availability when recommending glass types to avoid long lead times and to keep costs down in the event of replacement.
Whatever the project, you can be sure we have the most cost-effective and SAFE solution available.
“Their team went to extraordinary lengths on what must for them have been a relatively small job, but my Wife and I are delighted with our new roof lantern”
Keith Postan, Homeowner
Safety Considerations
| Height of Glass Above Floor Level | Single Glazing Canopies & un-heated spaces | Double Glazing Conservatories & heated spaces |
|---|---|---|
| 0-5 Metres | Toughened, Laminated or wired | Lower pane may be toughened or laminated. Upper pane should be toughened |
| 5-13 Metres | Toughened glass no more than 6mm thick, wired or laminated glass | As above for 0-5m heights |
| 13 Metres plus | Laminated or wired glass | Lower pane must always be laminated |
NOTE: Toughened glass should not be used as single glazing or lower pane of DGUs for rooflights over swimming pools, food processing or similar areas where fragments of broken glass would prove a risk.
FAQs
- What’s the difference between toughened and laminated safety glass?
Toughened safety glass is much stronger than laminated glass, and thus, harder to break. Furthermore, laminated glass is designed to not shatter or splinter, and instead is retained by the PVB layer. Alternatively, toughened glass shatters into granular pieces with no jagged or sharp edges. So, in the unlikely event that toughened glass breaks, it still won’t pose a threat.
- What tests do safety glass have to go through?
Safety glass undergoes multiple tests to ensure it is fit for purpose. For example, the examiner will assess the glass when impacted, scratched, and fragmented. If the glass holds itself together under force, it can be categorised as safety glass. If not, the glass has failed the test.
- Can safety glass shatter?
Yes. Toughened glass shatters into small cubes or ‘dice’ with no sharp edges and can be expected to fall into the space below without causing harm. Laminated glass cracks, but remains in place due to the ‘plastic’ interlayer.
- What’s the difference between toughened and laminated safety glass?
Toughened safety glass is much stronger than laminated glass, and thus, harder to break. Furthermore, laminated glass is designed to not shatter or splinter, and instead rests the glass on the PVB layer. Alternatively, toughened glass shatters into granular pieces with no jagged or sharp edges. So, in the unlikely event that toughened glass breaks, it still won’t pose a threat.
