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Author: Mark
Subject: 

How to determine if Tempered glass is needed?

Posted At: 2004-09-29 19:52:40

Different salesman to our house say different things about whether or not our replacement windows lower sashes need to be tempered glass. Can you all experts please give me the real deal?

Our Georgia code 8-2-90 2-vii says:
"Glazing in fixed panels having a glazed area in excess of nine square feet with the lowest edge less than 18 inches above the finish floor level or walking surface within 36 inches of such glazing. In lieu of safety glazing, such glazed panels may be protected with a horizontal member not less than one and one-half inches wide when located between 24 and 36 inches above the walking surface"

Our existing windows start like 4 inches off the ground and are double hungs. Their dimensions are about 74x33 (which I compute to be 17 square feet. Therefore the bottom sash (a fixed panel in my opinion eventhough it moves) has an area of 8.5 square feet. Since the top sash is higher than 36 inches, and the bottom sash is less than 9 square feet, I would think that I don't need any tempered glass. But I could have it all wrong.

Am I missing something? I appreciate your time.


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Author: Guy
In Reply To: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed? (posted by Mark)
Subject: 

RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed?

Posted At: 2004-09-29 20:19:41

Here's what I know. Oberon is the almighty one when it comes to glass. Even us old timers can learn a thing or two!!!
Local codes govern the requirements for safety glazing. I know this very well as some of ours go overboard. The United Building Code is the format used by all local officials. They can then interpret their philosphy upon anyone they want. You can argue and push the issue in many cases. Here is the rule of thumb we use when trying to decide.

1. Glass is greater than 9 sq ft in area.
2. Bottom edge of glass is less than 18 inches above the floor (walking surface).
3. Top edge of glass is more than 36 inches above the floor (walking surface).
4. And there is a walkway within 36 inches (horizontally) of the glass.

Oberon will correct me if I'm wrong or missing anything!

The local building code official is the final authority for determining compliance with the local code. So if you still have a question, call your local building department


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Author: Oberon
In Reply To: RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed? (posted by Guy)
Subject: 

RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed?

Posted At: 2004-09-29 21:44:31

Thanks Guy, and your reply was perfect.

Based on the numbers you quoted, you don't "need" tempered glass to meet code, Mark.

But, I would MOST STRONGLY recommend that you get tempered at least on the lower sash. This is a safety issue, and I believe that the enhanced safety and piece of mind more than covers the extra cost.
I think Guy and the other professional installers would probably agree with me on that one.
Any thoughts from the pro's?


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Author: Ed
In Reply To: RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed? (posted by Oberon)
Subject: 

RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed?

Posted At: 2004-09-29 21:54:06

I am going to go out on a limb.
I think all windows should use
tempered glass.
Why you may ask ?
Because it is not all that more
expensive.
Because it is about 4 times as strong
as non tempered.
Because it is much safer.
Ed


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Author: Village Idiot
In Reply To: RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed? (posted by Ed)
Subject: 

RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed?

Posted At: 2004-09-29 22:41:08

I am thinking good tempered glass is less likely to get angry. Just adding a little levity.

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Author: Guy
In Reply To: RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed? (posted by Ed)
Subject: 

RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed?

Posted At: 2004-09-30 00:50:57

I would say if your going to spend the extra money go with Laminated glass. It's just as safe and also offers a better sound barrier inside the home. It's heavier than standard IG but it's good stuff!!!

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Author: Oberon
In Reply To: RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed? (posted by Guy)
Subject: 

RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed?

Posted At: 2004-09-30 01:44:31

Not a bad idea at all. Guy, how easy is it for a dealer such as yourself to get laminated glass as a non-standard item?

Do you order it direct from a glass company or from the window company?

Curious. Thanks


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Author: Oberon
In Reply To: RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed? (posted by Village Idiot)
Subject: 

Cute!

Posted At: 2004-09-30 01:45:19

I like that one! Thanks VI!

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Author: Ed
In Reply To: RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed? (posted by Guy)
Subject: 

RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed?

Posted At: 2004-09-30 13:26:33

Yep I think a very good idea.
PLUS laminated glass blocks 99% UV!
Ed


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Author: Mark
In Reply To: RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed? (posted by Guy)
Subject: 

RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed?

Posted At: 2004-09-30 13:32:18

Is "laminated" glass the same as "tempered" glass? From the way you guys are using it it sounds like it is the same thing, but I'm thinking that laminated is a film coating, and tempered is a type of glass (but I've been wrong before). What is the general cost upgrade to go from regular glass to laminated or to tempered? Like $50 (for a standard size window) to go to tempered? Is laminated cheaper?

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Author: Oberon
In Reply To: RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed? (posted by Mark)
Subject: 

RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed?

Posted At: 2004-09-30 15:34:48

Mark,

Laminated is the same stuff as the front windshield of your car. Tempered is the stuff in the side and back windows of your car.


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Author: Guy
In Reply To: RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed? (posted by Oberon)
Subject: 

RE: How to determine if Tempered glass is needed?

Posted At: 2004-09-30 21:33:47

I just order it witht the window. My manufacturer does their own glass in house. So they cut it to size. It usually adds an extra week to the order!

Guy


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