Advantages of Using Toughened Safety Glass on Pool Enclosures

Using glass for screen room installation offers a wide variety of benefits, including visual clarity and aesthetics. However, the material comes with a number of drawbacks, one of which is the use of safety glass in the construction of enclosure roofing and in areas within certain proximity to the door or floor (usually between 12 and 18 inches). The roof specifically requires annealed glass treated with a thermal tempering.

This type of toughened glass derives its strength from compressive stresses coupled with surface tensile stresses that produce a hardening balance in its body. The material’s enhanced mechanical resistance to breakage is necessary to withstand any fracturing on pool enclosure installation.

Toughened Glass vs Compact Polycarbonate

Although polycarbonate is easier to install and comes with virtually indestructible properties, the material lacks clarity of view offered by glass. However, it shares the same insulation value with glass. A screen room installation fitted with toughened safety glass has the benefit of being more resilient to bad weather.

It is also safer to apply on a moving structure. Glass is a great choice for poolside installation, thanks to its overall flexibility and resistance. Some alternative materials like Perspex are lighter and can scratch easily. On the other hand, glass does not distort and change color, making it more permanent.

The choice of vertical and overhead material to use on screen room installation is dependent on the desired strength, appearance, and budget. In the end, toughened glass is scratch resistant, remains flat (some materials distort due to high temperature), does not fade or deteriorate, and is transparent.

Unlike polycarbonate, glass is not porous and thus produces less condensation, which causes misting. Toughened variants are more rigid and resistant to forced break-ins by intruders. The material works well with a strong frame made of aluminum. The structure requires sealing with rubber gaskets to prevent possible leaks. In some cases, horizontal mullion bars may be needed in places where the glass overhangs the eave.