Tempered Laminated Glass vs. Monolithic Tempered Panels
There are two types of glass that are commonly used as infill panels for glass railing installations – tempered laminated glass and monolithic tempered glass. Tempered laminated glass is composed of two pieces, and a vinyl interlayer. Laminated panels allow the glass to break on either side of the laminate and cause any broken pieces to stick together. For this reason laminated glass panels offer added protection against falling pieces.
Monolithic tempered glass is a single sheet of glass that has been tempered in order to increase durability. Monolithic glass panels have been used for years in safety glass applications and are often recognized by a stamp on the panel. It is important to understand the evolving code requirements as they relate to different types of glass and which is right for your project.
When to Use Laminated Glass Panels for Handrails?
Laminated glass may be required for railing installations in all locations where the railing overhangs or overlooks a walkway. This applies to both residential and commercial structures. Monolithic (single panel non laminated) tempered glass is allowed only in locations where there is no walkway under the glass railing. Another instance where this may apply is a permanently protected walkway that eliminates the risk of falling glass.
Glass Handrail Codes for “No Toprail” Applications
IBC requirements state that glass railing systems are to be designed with a top rail in order to hold glass in place during a breaking event. Top rails on glass systems can increase protection and lateral stability however very few customers desire a top rail on these systems. Exception to laminated glass- The exception to the top rail requirement for is when a glass system utilizes laminated glass panels that are designed to withstand loads outlined by the IBC. The new code states that ALL glass railings constructed without a top rail must include laminated glass panels. Click HERE for more details on the IBC requirements.
Where to Purchase Glass Railings
San Diego Cable Railings is a nationwide distributor of cable and glass railing systems with installation services offered in California. Our company offers a line of post and rail glass systems as well as clip and base shoe glass railings. If you have questions about glass handrail codes, or you would like info or pricing on our railings visit the QUOTE REQUEST page.
