Insulated Glass vs Laminated Glass: Comparing 9 Parameters

Apex Tempered Glass understands that selecting the right glass for commercial and residential projects can be a complex decision. With numerous options available, it’s essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each to make an informed choice.

Two common types of glass often considered are insulated glass and laminated glass, a type of safety glass. While both offer distinct advantages, they excel in different applications. This article delves into the key differences between these two glass types to help you determine the best fit for your needs.

Understanding the Basics

Insulated glass units (IGUs) and laminated safety glass are both composed of multiple layers of glass. However, their construction and properties differ significantly:

• Insulated glass: Two or more panes of glass are separated by a spacer filled with a desiccant to absorb moisture. The space between the panes is filled with inert gas, such as argon or krypton, to enhance insulation.
• Laminated glass: Two layers, or more, of glass are bonded together with a polymer interlayer, typically polyvinyl butyral (PVB). This interlayer makes this type stronger than regular glass, and provides safety and sound insulation.

Laminated Glass vs Insulated Glass: Comparison Table

1. Insulation

• Insulated: IGUs are designed to maximize thermal efficiency. They consist of two or more panes of glass separated by a spacer filled with a desiccant to absorb moisture. The space between the panes is filled with an inert gas, such as argon or krypton, which has a lower conductivity than air, further reducing heat transfer. This makes IGUs excellent at regulating indoor temperatures, keeping homes and buildings warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
• Laminated: While laminated glass does offer some insulation benefits due to its multiple layers, it primarily excels in other areas. The focus of its construction is on safety and security, rather than thermal performance.

2. Soundproofing

• Insulated: While IGUs can help reduce noise transmission to some extent, their primary function is insulation. The air gap between the panes can help to absorb sound vibrations, but the effect is generally moderate.
• Laminated: The interlayer in laminated glass, typically polyvinyl butyral (PVB), is an excellent sound barrier. It effectively dampens sound waves, making laminated glass an ideal choice for areas exposed to significant noise pollution, such as busy streets or industrial zones.

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3. Safety and Security

• Insulated: IGUs are not designed for safety or security. If broken, they shatter into sharp fragments, posing a potential risk.
• Laminated: This type of glass is renowned for its safety and security properties. The PVB interlayer holds the glass fragments together in case of breakage, preventing them from scattering and reducing the risk of injury. Laminated glass is also more resistant to impact, making it an excellent choice for entry doors, storefronts, and other vulnerable areas.

4. UV Protection

• Insulated: While IGUs offer some UV protection, it’s typically not their primary function. The level of protection depends on the type of glass used in the panes.
• Laminated: The PVB interlayer in laminated glass provides excellent UV protection. It blocks a significant portion of harmful UV rays, helping to protect furniture, flooring, and artwork from fading and damage.

5. Energy Efficiency

• Insulated: As mentioned earlier, IGUs are highly energy efficient. By reducing heat transfer, they help lower heating and cooling costs. Additionally, certain coatings can be applied to the glass to further enhance energy performance.
• Laminated: While laminated glass offers some energy efficiency benefits due to its multiple layers, it’s generally not as efficient as insulated glass. However, when combined with low-E coatings, its energy performance can be improved.

6. Impact Resistance

• Insulated: Offers moderate impact resistance due to multiple panes of glass. However, it may not withstand heavy impacts as effectively as laminated glass.
• Laminated: Excels in impact resistance. The interlayer significantly enhances the glass’s ability to withstand shocks and impacts.

7. Condensation Prevention

• Insulated: Effectively prevents condensation by creating a thermal barrier between the indoor and outdoor environments. This helps to maintain a clear view and prevents moisture damage.
• Laminated: While it can help reduce condensation to some extent, its primary function is not condensation control.

8. Heat and Cold Resistance

• Insulated: Offers standard heat and cold resistance. The insulated air space helps to regulate temperature transfer.
• Laminated: Generally offers standard heat and cold resistance. However, specific glass types within laminated glass can have enhanced heat or cold resistance properties.

9. Cost

• Insulated: Generally, IGUs are more affordable than laminated glass, especially for standard sizes. However, the cost can vary depending on factors such as glass thickness, gas fill, and additional coatings.
• Laminated: Due to the additional manufacturing process and the use of PVB interlayer, laminated glass tends to be more expensive than insulated glass. The cost also increases with the thickness of the glass and the number of layers.

When to Use Insulated Glass vs. Laminated Glass

Understanding the specific needs of your project is crucial in determining whether insulated glass or laminated glass is the best choice.

When to Choose Laminated Glass

Laminated glass is preferred for its safety, security, and soundproofing properties. It is ideal for the following glass products:

• Shower enclosures: Providing a sleek, modern look while ensuring safety.
• Table tops: Creating durable and stylish surfaces resistant to scratches and impacts.
• Commercial building facades: Enhancing security and reducing noise pollution.
• Glass railings: Offering a stylish and safe design for balconies and staircases.
• Glass shelves: Providing a strong and attractive display surface.

Laminated glass offers exceptional durability and safety, making it suitable for various applications and architectural projects.

When to Choose Insulating Glass

Insulated glass is primarily used to improve energy efficiency and thermal comfort. It is ideal for:

• Residential windows: Reducing heat transfer and improving indoor comfort.
• Sliding doors: Enhancing energy efficiency and providing smooth operation.
• Skylights: Minimizing heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter.
• Greenhouses: Maintaining optimal growing conditions by regulating temperature and light.

We offer insulated glass units in various configurations, including laminated, low-E, and tempered glass options to meet specific project requirements.