GLASS AND GLAZING

Glass is being used in increasing quantities and sizes in the construction of new buildings, including prestige office
buildings, retail developments, hotels, leisure centres and new homes.

Moisture Protection (Water Protection, Condensation Resistance)

Since glass itself is impervious to water penetration, glazing waterproofing performance is

determined by the glazing method chosen (e.g. wet glazing versus dry glazing) and drainage
details of the framing system. 

Wet glazing most commonly consists of a gunable ("wet") sealant installed over a preformed
tape or gasket. Dry glazing systems utilize extruded rubber gaskets as the glazing seals. 

Durability of Glass
Glass is one of the most durable construction materials, substantially resisting the effects of normal weathering for
decades. But glass is also a classic brittle material, suffering significant strength degradation from scratched edges
or chips. Most Glazing durability problems are caused by following:

1. Fogging of ig units – Is caused by condensation of moist air that penetrates into the air space of
insulating glass units through or around the hermetic seal of the unit. 
2. Glass Fracture – Are caused by impact or by weakening of the glass through the development of
cracks, chips or surface scratches. 

(From IBC 2018)

Tempered glass is heat-treated to strengthen it.

Laminated glassis made up of two panes of glass with a plastic layer between them

Wired glass has pieces of wire embedded in the glassthat act to contain glass fragments and keep the
pane in place if the glass breaks.