Tempered vs Laminated Glass: What's Right for Your Storefront?

How Tempered Glass Works

Tempered glass is heat-treated to be roughly four times stronger than standard annealed glass. When it does break, it shatters into small, relatively blunt pieces rather than sharp shards — which is why building codes require it in most storefront and low-height glazing applications. It's the standard choice for straightforward storefront replacement.

How Laminated Glass Works

Laminated glass is two (or more) layers of glass bonded around an interlayer, usually PVB. When it breaks, the pieces tend to stay adhered to the interlayer instead of falling out — which is why it's often chosen for security-sensitive storefronts, sound-control applications, or openings where you want the glass to stay in place even if it's compromised.

Code Requirements Aren't Optional

Most jurisdictions require safety glazing — tempered or laminated — in doors, sidelites, and glass within a certain height of the floor. Which specific type is required depends on the application and local code, so this is worth confirming with your contractor or local building department rather than assuming.

Which One Fits Your Storefront

For a standard storefront replacement with no unusual security or noise concerns, tempered glass is typically the more cost-effective, faster-to-source choice. If you're dealing with a high-crime area, a street-level opening you want more break-resistant, or a noise-sensitive space, laminated glass is worth the conversation.

Have a question about your specific situation? Request a free quote and we'll walk you through it.

Related Services