Laminate Glass Handling Guide
Laminate glass supply has increased in volume over recent years. This is due to changes in building regulations, Secured By Design, PAS 24 and the implementation of Document Q in the new build sector.
These improvements mean that EN 356 P1A is the base requirement for burglar resistance/security glazing. The minimum requirement is 6.8mm laminate glass as part of vulnerable window specification.
With the increase in volumes, we have seen increases in breakages. These in part, are due to handling and glazing issues. Regency Glass have invested in new automated laminate glass cutting lines that have improved the edge quality of laminate glass. However, it is important to appreciate that 6.8mm laminate glass is made up as :
3mm annealed glass / 0.76mm PVB inter layer / 3mm annealed glass.
This 3mm glass is delicate and can easily be broken or cracked by:
- pivoting on the corners when moving/lifting
- leaning backwards or forwards so that the whole weight of the unit is placed on the edge of a 3mm piece of glass
- placing the glass on uneven solid surfaces such as paths, driveways, concrete, etc.
- hitting the glass with excessive force when affixing glazing beads
Whilst some shells and splinters may still occur, these are a normal part of the cutting process. If the splintering is within the spacer bar/sealant area at the unit edges, the glazing beads will cover this and the unit is acceptable for glazing as normal.
Please see handling guide below
