The type of glass used in high-rise buildings needs to be very resilient and fabricated in such a way that it doesn't shatter in case it gets damaged. Additionally, it should be transparent, have high workability, visible transmittance, Inwer U-value, and be completely recyclable.
High-rise glass is made up of two pieces, each 6mm (a quarter-inch thick), and is separated by a half-inch air space, creating a one-inch thick unit. The glass is factory-made with double seals that allow for desiccated air inside (dry air) to prevent fogging. Where the climates are very cold, the spaces are packed with argon.
High-rise building glass is heat strengthened instead of being tempered or laminated because tempering creates additional stress that compromises optical quality. Tempered glass is customarily marked with a dot on specific panels to enable firefighters to identify them in case they need to break-In.
Regardless of budget, one thing that should never be compromised is the quality of the glass used and the installation. If not properly installed or low in quality, glass can lead to serious safety hazards due to accidents. Low-quality glass easily cracks and can shatter during installation. This will result in extra expenses due to replacement. It's important to check the specifications when purchasing, even during future replacements.
