What is Laminated Glass?

Laminated glass is a high-performance safety glass widely used in residential, commercial, and industrial construction. With rising demands for energy efficiency, hurricane protection, and modern aesthetics, laminated glass is becoming the go-to solution for facades, windows, and interior designs.

What is Laminated Glass?

Laminated glass consists of two or more layers of glass bonded with an interlayer, typically PVB (Polyvinyl Butyral), EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate), or SGP (SentryGlas Plus). This interlayer ensures that, even when the glass breaks, it remains intact—reducing the risk of injury and offering enhanced security.

Laminated glass is also commonly known as laminated safety glass because of its ability to withstand impacts, reduce noise, block UV rays, and provide superior durability, making it ideal for hurricane-prone regions and soundproof projects.

Types of Laminated Glass Interlayers

The performance of laminated glass depends on the type of interlayer used:

1. PVB Laminated Glass

• Most widely used laminated glass.

• Provides standard safety, UV protection, and moderate noise reduction.

• Typically used for residential windows, skylights, and storefronts.

• Best for cost-conscious projects where standard safety is required.

2. EVA Laminated Glass

• Highly moisture-resistant and ideal for outdoor or high-humidity environments.

• Compatible with decorative inserts like colored films and fabrics, perfect for architectural accents.

• Used in balustrades, canopies, curtain walls, and decorative partitions.

3. SGP (SentryGlas Plus) Laminated Glass

• Five times stronger and 100 times stiffer than PVB, making it suitable for structural glazing.

• Maintains structural integrity after impact, even when cracked.

• Ideal for hurricane impact windows, large curtain walls, and high-security projects.

• The preferred choice for architects designing high-rise towers and coastal buildings.

Laminated Glass vs Tempered Glass: Which is Better?

While both are safety glass, they serve different needs:

• Tempered Glass – Heat-treated for strength; shatters into small blunt pieces upon impact. No soundproofing or UV protection.

• Laminated Glass – Stays intact after breaking, offers better security, hurricane resistance, sound insulation, and UV blocking.

For hurricane-resistant windows, noise reduction, or large building facades, laminated glass is the superior option. Many premium projects even use tempered laminated glass (a combination) for maximum strength and safety.

How Much Does Laminated Glass Cost?

The cost of laminated glass varies by:

• Glass thickness (standard: 6.38mm, 8.38mm, 10.38mm, or more)

• Interlayer type (PVB is most affordable, SGP is premium)

• Certifications (ASTM, EN, CSA for North America)

• Customization (tinted, decorative, or oversized panels)

On average, laminated safety glass costs $15–$50 per square foot, with hurricane-rated SGP laminated glass on the higher end due to its strength and certification.

Why Laminated Glass is the Best Choice for High-Performance Projects

Laminated glass is a multi-functional material that meets modern building requirements, including:

• Hurricane Impact Windows & Doors – Certified to withstand extreme weather.

• Noise-Reduction Glass for Urban Projects – Blocks outside noise for offices and homes.

• Best Laminated Glass for Facades – Delivers strength, safety, and aesthetics for skyscrapers and large-scale buildings.

• Interior Safety Glass – For balustrades, partitions, and glass floors.

For contractors and architects, laminated glass ensures compliance with building codes, enhances building performance, and offers endless design flexibility.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re comparing laminated glass vs tempered glass, sourcing laminated safety glass for hurricane windows, or looking for the best laminated glass for noise reduction, partnering with a certified glass manufacturer ensures your project meets safety, performance, and budget requirements.