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What’s the difference between toughened and laminated glass?

20/01/2026 by harp_admin

Toughened Glass

• Manufacturing: Toughened (also known as tempered) is produced by heating standard glass to over 600°C and then rapidly cooling it. This increases the strength of the glass significantly, making it up to five times stronger than regular glass.
• Properties: Toughened glass shatters into small, blunt pieces, reducing the risk of injury from sharp shards. It is highly resistant to thermal stress and impact, making it suitable for high-risk areas.
• Applications: Commonly used in shower screens, vehicle windows, glass doors, and other applications where strength and heat resistance are essential. Often required in building regulations for critical locations.

Laminated Glass

• Manufacturing: Laminated is made by sandwiching two or more layers of glass with a durable interlayer, typically made from polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This interlayer holds the glass layers together even when shattered.
• Properties: In the event of breakage, the interlayer keeps the glass fragments intact, preventing them from falling and causing injury. This enhances both security and safety and is ideal for applications where these factors are critical.
• Applications: Frequently used in car windscreens and shopfronts, also some residential windows/doors, especially in areas where security and sound insulation are priorities. It also provides UV protection.

Key Differences

• Safety: Toughened glass breaks into small pieces, while laminated glass remains intact due to the interlayer, providing higher post-break safety.
• Security: Laminated glass offers superior protection against forced entry, making it ideal for high-security applications.
• Sound Insulation: Laminated glass provides better sound insulation due to the dampening properties of the interlayer.
• Cost: Toughened glass is generally less expensive than laminated glass, making it suitable for applications where cost is a concern but security is not the top priority.

So to sum up, the choice between toughened and laminated glass depends on the specific requirements of the installation, including safety, security, and budget considerations. Both types of glass offer enhanced safety compared to standard glass, but they serve different purposes and have distinct advantages.

Want to learn more?

Talk to us to find out more about how you can use toughened and laminated glass around your home.