In commercial construction and fit-outs, commercial glass is more than just a design element. It plays a vital role in safety, energy performance, comfort and first impressions.
Whether you’re developing a new building or upgrading an existing one, choosing the right type of glass will directly impact how your property performs.
So, what type of glass is best for commercial buildings? Here’s a practical breakdown to help you choose the right commercial glass for your project.
Why Glass Choice Matters in Commercial Spaces
Commercial spaces need to work hard. They need to be safe, functional and energy-efficient while also looking professional and welcoming. Commercial glass contributes to all of this.
It affects the comfort inside the building, how much light gets in, how much energy is used to heat or cool the space and how secure the building feels.
The right type of glass can enhance privacy, boost insulation, reduce glare and even contribute to building code compliance. That’s why it’s worth getting right from the start.
What Type of Commercial Glass Is Best for Buildings?
Tempered Glass: Strong and Safe
Tempered glass is a toughened safety glass that is much stronger than standard float glass. It is heat-treated to improve its strength and is designed to shatter into small, blunt pieces if broken, reducing the risk of injury.
Where It Works Best:
- Shopfronts and entry doors
- Internal partitions in high-traffic areas
- Bathrooms and wet areas
Tempered glass is ideal where safety and durability are essential in commercial glass applications.
Laminated Glass: Extra Security and Sound Control
Laminated glass is made from two or more layers of glass with an interlayer that holds the glass together if it breaks. It offers a strong barrier against impact and also helps reduce noise.
Best For:
- Buildings in high-traffic or noisy areas
- Spaces requiring added security
- Areas exposed to harsh weather or risk of break-ins
Laminated glass is a trusted choice for soundproofing and safety in commercial glass installations such as schools, hospitals and retail centres.
Insulated Glass Units (IGUs): Comfort and Energy Efficiency
IGUs, commonly known as double glazing, consist of two or more panes separated by a sealed air or gas space. They provide excellent insulation and are commonly used to meet energy efficiency targets.
Benefits Include:
- Lower heating and cooling costs
- Reduced internal condensation
- Better acoustic performance
Surefit Glass often recommends IGUs to clients looking to reduce long-term energy use and improve comfort with high-performance commercial glass solutions.
Low-E Glass: Smart Energy Savings
Low-emissivity glass has a special coating that reflects infrared heat while allowing natural light to pass through. It helps keep interiors warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Ideal For:
- Office buildings and commercial towers
- Retail spaces with large windows
- Any project seeking energy-efficient upgrades
Low-E glass is frequently chosen by commercial clients at SureFit Glass to meet thermal standards and elevate commercial glass performance.
Smart Glass: Technology Meets Functionality
Smart glass can change its appearance based on lighting or user control. It can switch from clear to tinted, offering on-demand privacy or glare reduction.
Where It Shines:
- Boardrooms and meeting rooms
- Healthcare and hospitality settings
- High-end developments and modern offices
This type of commercial glass offers both innovation and flexibility, perfect for tech-forward projects.
Cost Considerations
Not all glass is priced the same. Each type brings a different level of performance and value to your project.
- Tempered glass is affordable and reliable for most commercial needs.
- Laminated glass costs more but adds strong benefits in security and soundproofing.
- IGUs and Low-E glass have a higher upfront cost but deliver noticeable savings on heating and cooling over time.
- Smart glass is a premium option and best suited to projects with specific privacy or automation requirements.
The team at SureFit Glass can help weigh the short-term and long-term benefits based on your goals and budget.
Maintenance and Longevity
Different types of commercial glass have different care requirements, and understanding these can help you plan for long-term performance.
- Tempered and laminated glass are low-maintenance and easy to clean with standard products.
- IGUs can last up to 25 years, but it is important to ensure seals are properly installed to avoid fogging.
- Low-E coatings should be cleaned gently to preserve their performance.
- Smart glass systems may require occasional checks of electrical components but are designed for daily use.
If you’re looking for durable, low-maintenance solutions, SureFit Glass can provide guidance based on the specific usage of your space.
Building Codes and Compliance
In Australia, commercial glass installations must comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) and relevant Australian Standards such as AS1288. For energy performance, Section J of the NCC requires glazing to meet minimum insulation and solar heat gain levels.
Glass types like IGUs and Low-E glass are commonly used to meet these requirements. Projects seeking environmental certifications such as Green Star often specify these products to meet performance goals.
Working with experienced suppliers helps ensure compliance is built into your project from day one.
What’s the Best Fit for Your Building?
So, what type of glass is best for commercial buildings? That depends on your location, building type, goals and budget.
- Need safety and affordability? Go with tempered glass.
- Looking for noise control and extra protection? Laminated glass is ideal.
- Want energy savings and year-round comfort? IGUs or Low-E glass are smart picks.
- Building something modern and dynamic? Smart glass could be the standout feature.
No matter your needs, there’s a commercial glass solution that fits. If you’re planning your next project and need expert guidance, SureFit Glass is here to help you choose the right product and ensure a smooth, code-compliant installation.
