Is Tempered or Ceramic Glass Better for a Fireplace?

February 15, 2022 12:00 am Published by

If you live in areas that experience extremely cold weather, you may have a wood stove or fireplace in your home. The glass doors that cover the opening to both of these units are made up of one of two types of glass: ceramic or tempered glass.

This is important information, especially if you need to replace these doors. Let’s have a quick look at the differences between these two types of glass.

What Is Tempered Glass?

Tempered glass is chemically heat-treated glass. This process reinforces the glass to withstand up to four times the normal pressure as non-treated glass. The difference is that standard glass will break at 6,000 pounds per square inch (PSI) whereas tempered glass breaks at 24,000 PSI of pressure. When tempered glass breaks, it shatters into tiny pieces. 

What Is Ceramic Glass?

Ceramic glass is essentially a translucent type of ceramic. PyroCeram, produced by Corning in the 1950s, is the original ceramic glass. It was invented by accident by Dr. S Donald Stookey. Ceramic glass is an extremely tolerant, fireproof glass material capable of withstanding extreme temperatures up to 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit. When ceramic glass breaks, it falls apart in large chunks. Ceramic glass has been introduced to American households due to its many uses, such as cookware, bakeware, shower doors, etc. 

What Types of Tempered and Ceramic Glass Should I Use for a Fireplace?

It’s important to select the right type of glass. Therefore, take the following factors into consideration before making that selection:

  • Type of appliance.
  • Heater ratings: Household appliances work on British Thermal Units (BTUs) which state the heat-producing ability of the appliance.
  • Size, shape and design.

Why You Need Tempered Glass for Fireplace Doors

Tempered glass may be the better choice for your fireplace. The most important feature of tempered glass, besides the fact that it can withstand extreme temperatures, is that when it does break, it shatters into tiny pieces.  

It is the preferred choice when it comes to glass, which needs to be strong enough. You may notice that tempered glass is used in fireplaces, shower doors, skylights and just about anywhere where standard glass just won’t be able to do the job. 

There are several benefits to using this type of glass including:

Safety: Due to its ability to withstand high temperatures, absorb heat and stand up to everyday wear and tear, tempered glass is the ideal type of glass for your fireplace.

Affordability: Tempered glass is generally less expensive than ceramic glass. In addition to the fact that it is durable, tempered glass is considered the better choice for fireplace doors.

Availability: The production of tempered glass is a fairly straightforward process which means that this product is in full supply.

Speak to a representative at Custom Glass & Screen at (763) 537-0949 today about tempered glass for your fireplace doors. Established in 1975, the associates at Custom Glass & Screen are highly trained, knowledgeable and experienced to assist with your queries. 

Categorised in:

This post was written by admin

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *