When choosing the right glass for your shop front, you have two main options: toughened and regular glass. Toughened glass is stronger and safer, ideal for busy shops, providing better durability and security. It’s also a popular choice for shop fronts in London, offering a sleek and modern look.
On the other hand, regular glass is more affordable and accessible to replace, making it suitable for shops with a smaller budget or less foot traffic. Deciding which glass is best depends on your shop’s location, style, and needs, ensuring the right balance between cost, safety, and appearance.
What is Toughened Glass?
Toughened glass is a special type of glass that’s made to be very strong. It undergoes a process where it’s heated and then cooled quickly, making it four to five times stronger than regular glass. It’s used in many places, like shopfronts, commercial buildings, and car windows.
Why is Toughened Glass Popular?
- Strength and Safety: Toughened glass is much more challenging than regular glass. If it breaks, it shatters into tiny, harmless pieces, unlike regular glass, which breaks into sharp shards.
- Durability: It can handle heavy usage and is resistant to scratches. It is perfect for busy areas like shop windows and window panels.
- Wide Range of Uses: From frameless glass doors to glass panels, toughened glass offers various design choices and colours.
- Thermal Efficiency: Toughened Glass shop front helps keep your shop warm in winter and cool in summer, saving you money on energy bills!
What is Regular Glass?
Regular glass, also known as standard glass, is the traditional glass type we all know. It’s cheaper than toughened glass but also weaker. It’s often used for small windows or places where safety is not a big concern.
Why Choose Regular Glass?
- Cost-Effective: Regular glass is cheaper to buy and install.
- Easy Replacement: Glass replacement service is quick and less costly.
- Suitable for Low-Risk Areas: Ideal for areas with a low chance of damage.
Toughened Glass vs. Regular Glass: Key Differences
Feature | Toughened Glass | Regular Glass |
Safety | It breaks into small, blunt pieces, which are safer for busy areas. | Breaks into large, sharp pieces can cause injuries. |
Strength | 4 to 5 times strong than regular glass. | Less strong; breaks easily under pressure. |
Durability | Highly resistant to scratches and impact damage. | Prone to scratches and damage; less durable. |
Thermal Efficiency | It provides better insulation and helps save on energy bills. | Poor insulation; less energy-efficient. |
Design Options | Wide range of designs; suitable for custom designs. | Limited design options, mostly traditional styles. |
Cost | Higher initial cost due to added strength and benefits. | Lower initial cost; more affordable to install. |
Replacement | Easy replacement; can be custom-cut for quick solutions. | Easier to replace; generally lower cost. |
Ideal Use | High-traffic areas, modern shop fronts, and commercial buildings. | Low-risk areas, temporary shops, traditional styles. |
Aesthetic Appeal | Sleek, modern look; allows for frameless glass designs. | Traditional look; limited aesthetic flexibility. |
Security | It provides an extra layer of security and is harder to break. | Less secure; easier to break or damage. |
Which is Better for Shops?
Toughened Glass: The Superior Choice for Most Shops
- Shops in Busy Areas: London best Toughened Glass is ideal for busy shops. It withstands high foot traffic and is less likely to get damaged.
- Frameless Glass Shop Fronts: Frameless glass doors and panels are a great choice if you want a modern, sleek look. Toughened glass is perfect for this.
- Shops Needing High Security: Toughened glass offers extra safety and security. It is ideal for shops with valuable items.
- Shops Focusing on Energy Efficiency: Want to save on heating and cooling costs? Toughened glass helps keep your shop comfortable all year round.
Regular Glass: Suitable for Certain Situations
- Shops in Low-Risk Areas: Regular glass might be enough if your shop is quiet and has little risk of damage.
- Temporary Shops or Low-Cost Solutions: Regular glass can be a cost-effective option for shops looking to keep costs low.
- Traditional Look: Regular glass is perfect for shops that want a classic, traditional style.
Toughened Glass – The Best Choice for Most Shops
When selecting the best material for your Shop front in london, consider your needs and the environment around your shop. Whether you choose a standard glass shop front or explore different types of glass shops, finding the ideal material is key to achieving the perfect look and functionality.
Altus Shop Fronts & Shutter Repairs only use high-quality materials to ensure durability and style. Our expert team is ready to guide you through various shopfront designs and provide an efficient installation experience. Contact us today to find the best raw materials for your shopfront and enjoy professional service from start to finish!