Is Laminated or Tempered Glass Safer?
What Is Tempered Glass?
Tempered glass, also known as toughened glass, is manufactured through a process of extreme heating and rapid cooling. This process makes the glass up to five times stronger than standard annealed glass.
Key Characteristics:
High impact resistance
Shatters into small, blunt pieces (reducing injury risk)
Used in places requiring strong, clear glass
What Is Laminated Glass?
Laminated glass is made by bonding two or more layers of glass with a flexible plastic interlayer (typically PVB). When the glass breaks, the interlayer holds the fragments in place.
Key Characteristics:
Holds together when shattered
Excellent sound insulation
Blocks up to 99% of harmful UV rays
Safety Comparison: Laminated vs. Tempered
1. Impact Resistance
Tempered glass is exceptionally strong and can withstand significant force without breaking. It’s commonly used where high strength is a must, such as in car windows or commercial doors.
Laminated glass, while not quite as impact-resistant, compensates by holding its shape after breaking. This is particularly useful in scenarios where retaining the glass integrity is crucial, such as skylights or hurricane-prone areas.
Verdict: Tempered glass is stronger, but laminated glass maintains a barrier even after breakage.
2. Breakage Behavior
Tempered glass breaks into small, pebble-like pieces that are less likely to cause serious injury. Laminated glass cracks, but the interlayer prevents the pieces from separating, keeping the pane largely intact.
Verdict: Laminated glass is better at preventing intrusion after breakage.
3. Security
Laminated glass is more secure because even when it shatters, it remains in place. This deters burglars and delays forced entry. Tempered glass, although strong, will fall out of the frame once broken.
Verdict: Laminated glass offers better protection against break-ins.
4. Soundproofing
The interlayer in laminated glass also serves as a sound barrier, making it the ideal choice for noisy environments.
Verdict: Laminated glass wins in sound insulation.
5. UV Protection
Laminated glass can block up to 99% of UV rays, protecting your interior from sun damage. Tempered glass has minimal UV protection unless specially coated.
Verdict: Laminated glass is superior for UV filtering.
6. Cost and Availability
Tempered glass is typically less expensive and more widely available. Laminated glass involves a more complex manufacturing process, making it costlier.
Verdict: Tempered glass is more budget-friendly, while laminated glass is an investment in safety and comfort.
Applications in WJW Aluminium Doors and Windows
WJW Tempered Glass Options
WJW Aluminum manufacturer integrates tempered glass in various WJW aluminium doors and WJW aluminium windows due to its:
High strength
Sleek aesthetic
Cost efficiency
Best For:
Sliding doors
Interior glass partitions
Commercial storefronts
WJW Laminated Glass Options
WJW aluminium doors and WJW aluminium windows can be customized with laminated glass for:
Superior security
Noise reduction
UV protection
Best For:
Street-facing windows
Balcony and terrace doors
High-rise apartments
Real-Life Safety Scenarios
Home Intrusion
Laminated glass significantly slows down an intruder. In contrast, tempered glass—once broken—offers no barrier.
Accidental Breakage
Tempered glass minimizes injury upon breakage, making it ideal for areas with children or pets.
Extreme Weather
Laminated glass is preferred in regions prone to hurricanes or high winds, as it remains intact even under heavy pressure.
Why Choose WJW Aluminum Manufacturer?
WJW Aluminum manufacturer understands that safety is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why they offer both laminated and tempered options across their range of WJW aluminium doors and WJW aluminium windows, ensuring:
Custom safety solutions
Compliance with international safety standards
High-performance materials with proven durability
Clients can consult WJW’s expert team to determine the best choice for their specific location, use-case, and budget.
Final Verdict: Which Glass Is Safer?
Both tempered and laminated glass offer distinct safety advantages. The right choice depends on your priorities:
Choose tempered glass if you need high-strength, impact-resistant, and budget-friendly options.
Choose laminated glass if your top concerns are intrusion protection, UV shielding, and noise reduction.
For the ultimate in home safety, many property owners opt for double-glazed units combining laminated and tempered panes—something WJW can tailor for your needs.
Explore Secure Glazing Options with WJW
At WJW Aluminum manufacturer, safety is engineered into every product. Whether you're building a new home or upgrading to more secure glazing, WJW aluminium doors and WJW aluminium windows offer customizable, stylish, and secure solutions.
Contact WJW today to learn more about our laminated and tempered glass options and find the perfect fit for your project.
