In the early 17th century, people were already using glass as an integral part of a structure’s aesthetics. However, only a few wealthy people could afford glass materials for their homes, especially for their windows. Other people would use wooden shutters to seal their homes from weather and droughts. Today, modern architecture involves glass paneling in the designs, not just for windows but also as doors, walls, and ceilings. If you are considering glass for your home, you should learn the advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of Using Glass
Many will agree that glass is an excellent material to use in building any structure. It can make a room well-lit, bright, and light. Your home will look amazing when there are sufficient amounts of glass panelings utilized in specific spaces. It would be a good idea to improve your residence with glass repairs and replacements. Here are some of the advantages of using glass for your next home renovation:
Lightweight
Glass is a lightweight material, which you can use on your upper floors even without the specifications as a load-bearing component of the structure.
Versatile
Designers can play with the color and texture of glass, improving your home’s overall look.
Visible Transmittance
Using glass creates proper lighting because it allows natural light to penetrate the structure even if it is closed.
Rust and Weather Resistance
Glass can be a tough material. It can withstand hot water, sun, and wind that typically affects the surfaces of a structure.
Electric Insulator
One of the best materials as an insulator is the absence of free electrons. Glass can keep dwellers safe from electrical hazards.
Recyclable
Another great thing about glass is that it is highly recyclable. Some manufacturers use it as a raw material for any type of construction.
Aesthetics
Using glass gives beautiful and elegant accents to a structure. It can give your home that luxurious and elegant feel that can instantly upgrade your home’s value.
Disadvantages of Using Glass
One of the popular disadvantages of using glass is how to clean it if you have plenty of glass panels installed in your home. It could be more difficult if you own a commercial building, in which some would hire cleaning contractors to do the job.
Here are some more disadvantages of using glass that you should consider:
Breakable
Glass can easily break if it bears too much of a load that can put stress on its strength. Its sharp broken edges are also dangerous for your family, particularly if you have kids at home.
Not Safe During Earthquakes
Most structures can withstand earthquakes as part of the design requirements as a safety standard. However, glass tends to break because it is naturally brittle.
Absorbs Heat
Glass can trap heat because it creates a greater solar radiation level that causes a structure’s interiors to warm up. Experts do not recommend using glass for those living in areas with a hot climate.
Adds to Security Expenses
Due to its transparency, building owners add more cost in enhancing their security.
Increases the Total Cost of a Structure
Glass is more expensive than any other construction material. Using glass raises the total cost of materials and labor to construct your home, especially if it requires a higher specification.
Less Privacy
Having glass panels around your house takes away your privacy because other people can see you from the outside. You can solve this issue by using blinds or curtains, but it can also be expensive.
Modern architecture progresses quickly with the use of glass. It creates more ideas for some designers because of its characteristics. Even if it costs more than other building materials, you cannot replace great aesthetics over anything else.
