Gas-Filled Glass vs Tempered Glass: Which Is Better?

September 26, 2024

Key Takeaways

Gas-filled glass is an energy-efficient option, with argon, krypton, or xenon gasses between panes to reduce heat transfer.
Tempered glass, also known as safety glass, is heat-treated to be stronger and shatter into small, less harmful pieces upon impact.
Gas-filled glass is ideal for insulation and noise reduction, while tempered glass is best for safety and high-temperature resistance.
Costs vary, with gas-filled glass being generally more expensive due to its energy-saving benefits, while tempered glass is a cost-effective safety upgrade.
Panda Windows & Doors offers customized solutions to cater to the specific needs of your home or commercial space, ensuring the best fit for your project.

What is Gas-Filled Glass

So how does gas-filled glass actually work?

Two or three panes of glass are spaced apart and sealed to create a tight pocket. Then, the air between these panes is replaced with argon, krypton, or xenon gas.

These insert gasses are heavier than air, so they’re better at insulating your space from heat and noise.

Advantages of Gas-Filled Glass

It reduces the amount of heat that passes through, which can help lower your heating and cooling costs.
The gas in these windows also helps block out noise, making your home a peaceful sanctuary.
Gas-filled windows are less likely to “sweat” with condensation, which means fewer damp problems and a clearer view outside.

Disadvantages of Gas-Filled Glass

They can be pricier upfront compared to regular double-glazing.
If the seal isn’t perfect, the gas can escape over time, reducing its effectiveness.
Not all window frames can accommodate the thicker glass required for gas-filled options.

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What is Tempered Glass

Tempered glass is made by taking regular glass, subjecting it to extreme heat, and then rapidly cooling it.

This process, called tempering, changes the way the glass behaves when it’s broken. Instead of splintering into jagged shards, it crumbles into small, granular chunks. It’s also much harder to break in the first place, which is why it’s so great for safety.

You’ll also usually find it in places such as shower doors, car windows, and even the glass side panel of a skyscraper.

The differences in the break pattern between annealed, heat-strengthened, fully tempered, and laminated glass (image courtesy of Modernize).

Advantages of Tempered Glass

If it breaks, it’s less likely to cause injury due to its small, rounded pieces.
It’s about four times stronger than regular glass, making it a tough cookie to crack.
Tempered glass can handle higher temperatures, so it’s less likely to break under heat stress.

Disadvantages of Tempered Glass

It cannot be cut or reshaped after tempering, so it must be sized correctly before the process.
While it’s strong, once it does break, the entire piece will shatter, which means a full replacement is necessary.
It can be more expensive than regular glass, but its safety features often justify the cost.

Gas-Filled Glass vs Tempered Glass

Gas-filled and tempered glasses serve different purposes and excel in different areas. Gas-filled glass is the go-to for energy efficiency and insulation, while tempered glass is your best bet for safety and durability in high-risk areas. The choice between the two often comes down to the specific needs of the space you’re improving.

Energy Efficiency

The inert gas trapped between the panes of a gas-filled glass acts as a superb insulator, keeping your home cozy without overworking your heating or cooling systems.

Tempered glass doesn’t have this insulating superpower, but its strength means you can use it in larger, uninterrupted pieces, which can also help reduce heat loss – though not to the same extent.

It’s also worth noting that both types of glass can be part of energy-efficient windows if they’re used correctly. For example, you could have a window that uses both gas-filled and tempered glass to get the benefits of insulation and safety at the same time.

Cost Considerations

Generally, gas-filled glass costs more than regular double-pane windows because of the added energy efficiency benefits. You’re looking at an investment that pays off over time through lower energy bills.

On the flip side, tempered glass is more about safety than saving on bills. It’s often required by building codes in certain areas of the home, like near doors or in bathrooms, so while it might be an added cost, it’s also a necessary one for both safety and compliance.

Installation and Maintenance

Both types of glass need to be installed with care to make sure they perform as expected.

Gas-filled glass units must be perfectly sealed to keep the gas in and maintain their insulating properties. Tempered glass, on the other hand, is all about precision in measurement before tempering. Once it’s set, there’s no room for adjustments.

Maintenance-wise, both types of glass are pretty low-fuss. Keeping them clean is as simple as a wipe down with a soft cloth and some cleaner. But if the seal on a gas-filled window fails, it’s not something you can fix on your own – you’ll need a professional to reseal or replace it.

Aesthetic and Practical Considerations

Gas-filled glass doesn’t look any different from regular glass, but it can help reduce the glare and fading of your interior furnishings by blocking UV rays. Tempered glass is clear and strong, which means you can use it in larger, more daring designs that let in more light and offer unobstructed views.

Ideal Uses for Each Glass Type

Best Situations for Gas-Filled Glass

Homes in climates with extreme temperatures, where energy savings on heating and cooling are a priority.
Rooms facing busy streets or noisy areas, where the additional sound dampening can make a big difference.
Spaces where you want to protect furnishings from UV rays without compromising on natural light.

Best Situations for Tempered Glass

Areas prone to accidents or impact, such as doors, bathrooms, and stair railings.
Spaces requiring fire safety measures, like kitchen splashbacks or fireplace screens.
Commercial buildings where large, impressive windows are desired but must adhere to strict safety codes.

Comparison

Gas-Filled Glass

Tempered Glass

Energy Efficiency

– Provides superior insulation compared to regular air-filled glass due to the dense gas molecules between the panes

– Reduces heat transfer, leading to improved thermal efficiency and lower energy costs for heating/cooling

– Can achieve very low U-values (measure of heat transfer) when combined with low-E coatings

– The tempering process does not directly improve the insulation properties of the glass

– Tempered glass has similar thermal performance to regular annealed glass of the same thickness

– Does not inherently provide enhanced energy efficiency benefits

Cost Considerations

– More expensive than regular air-filled insulated glass units (IGUs) due to the gas-filling process

– Krypton gas is more costly than argon, but provides slightly better insulation

– The higher upfront cost can be offset by long-term energy savings

– Costs more than regular annealed glass due to the specialized thermal or chemical tempering process

– The premium is generally lower than the cost difference between gas-filled and air-filled IGUs

– Tempered glass may be a more cost-effective option in applications where safety is the primary concern

Installation and Maintenance

– Requires specialized equipment and expertise to properly fill the IGU with gas and seal it

– Potential for gradual gas leakage over time, though high-quality units can maintain 80% gas content for 20+ years

– Maintenance is similar to regular IGUs, with the added need to monitor gas levels

– Installation is similar to regular annealed glass, as the tempering process is done during manufacturing

– No special maintenance requirements beyond regular glass care

– Tempering is a permanent process, so the glass cannot be modified after tempering without compromising its strength

Aesthetic and Practical Considerations

– Appearance is identical to regular IGUs, with no visible difference

– Provides enhanced sound insulation properties in addition to thermal efficiency

– Suitable for a wide range of architectural and residential applications

– Offers a clean, modern aesthetic with its smooth, uniform surface

– Shatters into small, dull pieces when broken, reducing the risk of injury

– Commonly used in applications where safety and durability are paramount, such as doors, windows, and furniture

Best Situations to Use

– Locations with predominantly cold weather, as the gas fill provides excellent insulation to retain heat

– Homes where acoustic insulation is a priority, as the dense gas can help reduce noise transmission from outside

– Areas with high energy costs, as the added insulation can lead to significant savings on heating/cooling bills

– Situations where UV protection is important to prevent fading of fabrics and furniture

– Applications where safety is the primary concern, such as doors, windows, and furniture, as tempered glass shatters into small, dull pieces rather than sharp shards when broken

– Situations requiring increased strength and durability, as tempered glass is 4-5 times stronger than regular annealed glass and more resistant to impact and thermal stress

– Locations with high temperature fluctuations, as tempered glass can withstand higher temperatures and sudden changes without breaking

– Architectural features like windows, skylights, doors, and partitions in buildings where safety and visibility are important

Table comparing the characteristics of gas-filled glass and tempered glass.

Making the Right Choice with Panda Windows & Doors

When you’re ready to make a decision between gas-filled and tempered glass, you want a partner who understands your vision and can guide you to the best choice for your specific needs.

That’s where Panda Windows & Doors comes in. With our extensive range of high-quality door and window systems, we can provide custom glass solutions that will enhance your living space both aesthetically and functionally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is gas-filled or tempered glass more durable?

While both types of glass have their strengths, tempered glass is specifically designed to be more durable against impact. However, gas-filled glass has the durability of a different kind – it’s excellent at resisting the thermal stress that can lead to cracks and breaks over time.

Can gas-filled glass improve home energy bills?

Yes. The insulating properties of gas-filled glass can significantly reduce heat transfer, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home and potentially lowering your energy bills.

Are there any risks with tempered glass?

Tempered glass is incredibly safe, but it’s important to note that if it does break, it will shatter completely. This is by design, for safety reasons, but it means you’ll need a full replacement rather than a simple repair.

How do I choose between gas-filled and tempered glass?

Consider the primary function you need from your glass. If energy efficiency and insulation are top priorities, gas-filled glass is the way to go. If safety and durability are more important, especially in high-risk areas, choose tempered glass.

At Panda Windows & Doors, we’re always ready to help you make the best choice for your needs – get in touch today!