Sunseal, Laminated, or Tempered Glass – Which is Best?

As a window expert, I can't help but get excited when it comes to discussing the different types of window glass, and which is ultimately best for your home. Now, you might be wondering why choosing the right glass type is such a big deal. Well, the glass you pick can make all the difference regarding the energy efficiency, safety, and aesthetics of your home. 

In this article, I’ll be going over everything you need to know about three of the most common double-pane window glass types: SunSeal, laminated, and tempered glass. I’ll also be comparing their strengths, safety features, insulation capabilities, costs, and even their fashion sense (kidding – but I will talk about aesthetics!) 

So, if you're a homeowner looking to upgrade your windows and have no idea which is best for your needs, don’t worry, I've got you covered. Let’s dive in. 

Sunseal Glass

When it comes to combating the heat of summer, SunSeal glass from OKNA emerges as the top contender. This glass type is specifically engineered to tackle the challenge of solar heat gain while maintaining a visually appealing and natural aesthetic. Here’s why we love OKNA SunSeal glass: 

• Solar control: One of the standout features of SunSeal glass is its exceptional solar control properties. It acts as a barrier against the relentless sun, minimizing the amount of heat that enters your space without compromising the clarity of the view.
• Insulation: SunSeal glass also boasts impressive thermal insulating benefits. Reducing solar heat gain helps to keep your indoor spaces comfortably cool, even in the face of scorching temperatures outside. This translates to significant savings on your air conditioning costs, as you can now rely less on your cooling systems without sacrificing comfort.
• Color neutrality: What sets SunSeal Glass apart is its ability to deliver all these benefits while maintaining color neutrality. Unlike other glass types that may distort the colors you see through them, SunSeal glass presents a natural, unaltered view of the world outside. 
• Year-round protection: SunSeal glass is not only beneficial for reducing solar heat gain during hot climates, but it also provides advantages during the winter months. During winter, when temperatures drop, SunSeal glass helps to keep your interiors warm and cozy. Its ability to minimize heat loss through the windows can contribute to improved energy efficiency and reduced heating costs. 

So, whether you're battling the scorching heat of summer or the chilly winds of winter, SunSeal Glass works year-round to maintain a comfortable and energy-efficient environment inside your home.

Laminated Glass

When it comes to prioritizing safety and security without compromising on style, laminated glass is a great choice This specialized glass type offers a unique construction that adds an extra layer of protection to your windows. Here are its unique benefits: 

• Durable: The key benefit of laminated glass lies in its ability to withstand impact. Unlike traditional glass that shatters into dangerous shards upon impact, laminated glass holds together, thanks to the interlayer. Even if it cracks, the glass fragments remain adhered to the interlayer, significantly reducing the risk of injuries and protecting the occupants of a building.
• Secure: Due to its enhanced safety features, laminated glass is the ideal choice if security is a top priority for you. By acting as a deterrent to break-ins and providing a reliable barrier against forced entry, laminated glass brings peace of mind and an added layer of protection to your home. 
• Blocks UV rays: Laminated glass also provides an additional layer of defense against ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The interlayer acts as a filter, blocking a significant portion of harmful UV rays that can fade furniture, artwork, and flooring over time. By preserving the vibrant colors and integrity of your interiors, laminated glass helps maintain the longevity and beauty of your cherished belongings.

So, if you're seeking a glass type that combines safety,  UV protection, and customizable design options, laminated glass is an ideal choice. 

Tempered Glass

When it comes to strength, durability, and resilience, tempered glass takes the spotlight. This glass type undergoes a special heat treatment process that enhances its structural integrity and makes it several times stronger than standard glass.

So, how is tempered glass made? The manufacturing process involves subjecting the glass to extreme heat followed by rapid cooling, which creates a state of high surface compression and tensile strength. This unique process gives tempered glass its characteristic strength and safety features. Here are its additional features: 

• Strength: One of the standout qualities of tempered glass is its remarkable strength. It can withstand significant external forces, such as impacts, pressure, and bending, without shattering into sharp, dangerous shards. Instead, when tempered glass breaks, it fractures into small, pebble-like pieces with rounded edges, greatly reducing the risk of injuries.
• Thermal regulation: Due to its robust nature, tempered glass also excels in withstanding temperature changes. It has a higher resistance to thermal stress compared to regular glass, making it less prone to cracking or breaking under extreme temperature variations. 
• Energy efficient: Tempered glass offers energy efficiency benefits. Its enhanced insulation properties help to reduce heat transfer through windows, ensuring better thermal efficiency and potentially lowering energy consumption. By keeping the outside elements at bay, tempered glass contributes to maintaining a comfortable indoor climate while reducing the strain on heating and cooling systems.
• Style: Tempered glass can be customized with various finishes, tints, and patterns, allowing for both functionality and design flexibility. It seamlessly blends strength and style, making it a versatile choice for any home. 

When it comes to safety, durability, and resistance to temperature fluctuations, tempered glass has it all. Its ability to withstand impact, and temperature changes, and its energy-efficient properties make it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and long-lasting glass option.

SunSeal Glass Vs Laminated Glass Vs Tempered Glass

Now that we've delved into the features and benefits of SunSeal, laminated, and tempered glass, it's time to compare these three glass types and see how they stack up against each other. 

Strength and Durability

SunSeal Glass: Offers good strength and durability but is not as impact-resistant as laminated or tempered glass.

Laminated Glass: Provides exceptional impact resistance due to its construction with interlayers, making it highly durable and a preferred choice for safety-focused applications.

Tempered Glass: Excels in strength and durability, with the ability to withstand impacts and temperature fluctuations, making it an excellent option for high-stress environments.

Safety and Security

SunSeal Glass: Provides solar control and insulation benefits but does not have specific safety features like laminated or tempered glass. That doesn't make it an unsafe window, mind you!

Laminated Glass: Offers enhanced safety due to its ability to hold together when shattered, preventing glass fragments from causing injuries. It also acts as a deterrent against break-ins and forced entry.

Tempered Glass: Provides a high level of safety by breaking into small, rounded pieces, minimizing the risk of severe injuries. However, it does not offer the same level of resistance to forced entry as laminated glass.

Sound Insulation and Energy Efficiency

SunSeal Glass: Excels in solar control and thermal insulation, helping to reduce heat gain and lower air conditioning costs. 

Laminated Glass: Offers sound insulation properties, reducing external noise pollution and creating a quieter indoor environment. 

Tempered Glass: While it offers strength and durability, tempered glass does not provide significant sound insulation or thermal efficiency benefits.

Cost Considerations

SunSeal Glass: Generally falls in the mid-range in terms of cost, offering a balance between features and affordability.

Laminated Glass: Typically comes at a higher price point due to its added safety features and construction.

Tempered Glass: Falls in the mid-range in terms of cost, similar to SunSeal glass, providing good value for its strength and durability.

Aesthetics and Design Options

SunSeal Glass: Maintains color neutrality and offers a natural view, making it an attractive choice for those seeking unaltered aesthetics.

Laminated Glass: Can be customized with various tints, patterns, and finishes, providing design flexibility and options to match specific aesthetic preferences.

Tempered Glass: Offers versatility in design with various customization options, allowing it to complement different architectural styles.

Remember, it's essential to seek professional advice and evaluate your specific needs before making a final decision. Each glass type offers unique advantages, and the best choice depends on your priorities. 

So, Which Glass Should You Choose? 

• SunSeal Glass: Offers excellent solar control and thermal insulation benefits, making it the top choice for those seeking to beat the heat while keeping energy costs in check.
• Laminated Glass: Stands out with its exceptional impact resistance and enhanced safety features. It keeps you protected while offering sound insulation properties and some level of thermal insulation benefits.
• Tempered Glass: Brings strength and durability to the forefront, making it a reliable option for high-stress environments. While it may not offer significant sound insulation or thermal efficiency benefits, it's a solid choice for those prioritizing resilience.

Which Type of Glass Does WoW Recommend? 

When it comes to selecting the perfect glass for your needs, Windows on Washington recommends OKNA SunSeal Glass. Why? Because SunSeal glass from OKNA is designed to reduce solar heat gain while still providing color neutrality. With its solar control properties and thermal insulating benefits, SunSeal glass offers not only a beautiful, natural-looking view but also helps keep air conditioning costs low.

At Windows on Washington, we understand the importance of finding the ideal glass solution for your window replacement project. That's why we invite you to get in touch with us for a free quote. Our team of experts is here to guide you and ensure that your windows not only enhance the beauty of your spaces but also provide maximum comfort and energy efficiency.

Discover the transformative power of OKNA SunSeal Glass in your life. Contact Windows on Washington today and let us expertly guide you through your window replacement project.