The Glass Guide: What Works Where

Float Glass (Clear Glass)
This is the plain, everyday glass found in most windows and doors. Its biggest strengths are clarity, affordability, and easy availability. This is great for spaces that need natural light. However, it's fragile and unsafe for high-impact areas like balconies or railings, as it shatters into sharp pieces when broken.

Laminated Glass
Made by bonding two or more glass layers with a plastic interlayer, laminated glass holds together even when cracked. Much like a spiderweb instead of shattered pieces. It's excellent for skylights, windshields, or security areas where safety matters most. The trade-off is cost; it's pricier and slightly heavier than standard glass.

Solar Control Glass
This one's built for Bangladesh's sunny climate. It reflects heat while allowing light, reducing the need for air-conditioning and saving energy. However, it can be costlier than clear glass and may slightly dim indoor brightness.

Acoustic Glass
Perfect for Dhaka's noisy neighborhoods, this layered glass minimizes sound transmission while maintaining visibility. It's great for homes near roads or airports, though its cost can be prohibitive for large installations.

Tempered Glass
Tougher and safer, this is heat-treated to be four to five times stronger than regular glass. When it breaks, it crumbles into small, dull fragments instead of dangerous shards. Perfect for doors, shower enclosures, and railings. The only downside? It can't be cut or altered once tempered, so exact sizing is crucial before installation.

Double-Glazed Glass
Essentially two panes separated by air or gas, this type insulates against both noise and temperature. It keeps rooms cool in summer, warm in winter, and quiet all year. The downside? Higher price and trickier maintenance if moisture seeps between the panes.

Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Glass
A high-tech cousin of solar control glass, it uses a thin metallic coating to reflect heat without blocking light. Ideal for energy-efficient buildings but again, more expensive upfront.

Decorative Glass
Where functionality meets art. Etched, frosted, or colored glass adds privacy and personality to interiors. While it won't block heat or noise, it creates atmosphere while turning a practical surface into a design statement.