Benefits and Risks of Using Glass as A Building Material
Glasses were used for light-picking in the historical buildings. With time and further advancement of technology, glasses are now used as a building material for multi-storeys.
Considering the need for energy-efficient buildings nowadays, a lot of research on glass has been developed. This has led to progress in refractive index, reflection loss, thermal resistance and so on.
Also, with onsite glass repair and repairment services, glass has travelled a long way from being a mere decoration to a structural member in the modern age.
We have listed some of the benefits and risks of glass buildings.
It is Dustproof and Waterproof
Due to its smooth surface, glass is resistant to dust and water. It can be cleaned conveniently unlike concrete buildings. Due to these properties, glass is often preferred in areas with dust and sand in the air.
It is Recyclable
Recycling means converting waste into a reusable form. Glass is often recycled with makes it effective both pollution wise and cost-wise. It is 100% recyclable and doesn’t degrade on its properties during the recycling process. It-can be recycled without any compromise on the quality and durability of the material.
It is UV Resistant
It is a popular fact that our ozone layer is depleting. Thus, UV rays are becoming stronger, more harmful. Glass is not affected by Ultraviolet radiation which means it won’t crack or disintegrate under the rays.
Unlike plasters, glasses are able to survive under the UV rays and also protect us.
Enables Smooth Light Flow
Glass is transparent and allows light to pass through it. It has the ability to connect us with the outer world visually. It is a great way to save electricity bills and brighten up a room. Even when the glass is shut, it allows light to flow in thus, boosting the mood of the room.
It Can Be Easily Repaired and Moulded
Glass is a hard material that can be easily moulded into different shapes. It-allows being blown, drawn and pressed for glass repairing, glazing purposes, glass spraying, and other construction necessities by companies like ARS Ltd. It makes repairing work super convenient and cost-effective.
It Protects from Electrical Hazards
Glass is a poor conductor of electricity. It is an excellent insulator which means in the absence of free electrons, you are pretty much safe from most electrical hazards. This is why, glass is broadly used for the formation of ceiling lights, wall decoration lights, and other electrical appliances.
It Looks Aesthetically Pleasing
Glass enhances the beauty of a room. It makes a building look stunning, sophisticated, and extremely luxurious. Even at home, laminated glass with a range of colours interlayered provides amazing lighting effects. Glass spraying is often done to glaze a glass or create patterns to make an interesting interior décor.
Despite being one of the most versatile and reliable forms of building material, there are some drawbacks to glass.
- Glass is an expensive material used in the construction industry. Glass building also needs additional security costs.
- It can break under huge impact due to its low impact-resistant properties.
- Glare is a major drawback for glass buildings. But with technological improvement, different options are becoming available to tackle this issue.
- Use of glass buildings might not be the safest choice in earthquake-prone regions. It isn’t earthquake-resistant and there is no technological improvement done yet on that ground. Although, with some treatment, it can withstand small-scale earthquakes.
