When designing with glass, there are a wide range of options to choose from to create a truly unique project. A good way to go about this is through reflective glass since it has some significant aesthetic and performance benefits.
Even when transparent glass is in vogue, there are precise applications when tinted, reflective glass can be the superior choice. Actually, there are even reflective glasses that offer the solar control benefits of low-e coatings.
If you’re yet to consider using a reflective glass for your windows, then there is no ideal time to do so than now. Below are some key benefits of designing buildings with reflective glass.
Color
Tinted, reflective architectural glasses offer better harmonization with spandrels, metal panels, extrusions and other building materials. This color enriched glass transmits generous levels of visible light and provides color neutrality, which also enhances the tint of the glass substrate underneath the reflective coating. Nowadays, reflective glasses can also include low-e coatings.
Glare Control
You might not know this, but reflective glass has the potential to impact visible light transmittance (VLT). And this is easy to see considering reflective glass allows just the right amount of natural light into a building, while at the same time reducing glare and the need for window blinds and other interior shading devices.
Moreover, reflective solar control glass reflects a portion of incoming solar radiation. This limits heat penetration into the building and can potentially lower HVAC usage. No wonder you should consider purchasing reflective glass.
Visibility
We can never conclude without mentioning the fact that reflective glass also has a special metallic coating that makes it possible to see out. This is as it prevents people from seeing in, in order to preserve privacy during the day. If this is not enough, reflective glass makes it possible to hide computer wires, vents, fans, HVAC components and other building mechanicals.
The Bottom Line
You can never regret your decision the very moment you choose to leverage what reflective glasses offer building. From visibility and glare control to exterior appearance and color, you can never regret this purchase decision.
For complete technical information about designing with reflective glass and other glass topics, be sure to do your homework. Luckily, you can always access this information online without the hassle. So, what are you waiting for before you finally get going!
