Glass is one of the most common materials used for the production of items we use every day. Our pre-historic ancestors used naturally formed glass from volcanic lava which had rapidly solidified without crystallisation for weapons or tools. This type of glass was of great value and was very much sought after.
Archaeological evidence of the first manufacturing of glass has been found in Ancient Egypt dating back to 1500BC. However, glass from these times was produced by glazing pre-made items or beads that had accidentally formed from metalwork. It was in the Bronze Age that the first signs of glassmaking as we know it became apparent where molten glass was poured into containers.
It wasn’t until the 1st century BC that glass blowing was first used by Syrian and Palestinian workers. This changed the whole industry enabling easy production at lower costs. The Romans spread the technique across their empire, and it became commonplace not only for the production of jewellery and containers but for architectural purposes.
How is glass made today?
Glass is made from sand. Sand contains soda ash, lime and silica, which when heated, becomes liquid. We’re talking temperatures of at least 1700°C or 3090°F!
Once it’s reached this temperature it completely transforms so it will never return to its original state and even when cooled it never quite solidifies. Scientists call this type of liquid an ‘amorphous solid’. So, as incredible as is sounds, it has the characteristics of a solid and a liquid!
Why is glass so versatile?
Glass is relatively inexpensive to produce. Because it’s transparent it can be used for a variety of purposes in and around our homes and workplaces. It is commonplace within the architecture of buildings adding interest, natural light and character.
It has a resistance to heat once it is set and it is ‘chemically inert’ – in other words it’s unreactive to materials or food products place on it or in it, so it is great for storage of food for instance.
Coloured, opaque, etched, moulded or cut, glass is exceptionally adaptable but equally, can be easily recycled or upcycled.
What is Laminated Glass?
Sunrock Balconies use laminated glass for balustrades. Laminated glass has a plastic interlay placed between two sheets of glass during production. This creates a tight bond so if the laminated glass does get damaged it will remain intact because the fragments are bound on the thin film of interlay. Therefore, it doesn’t shatter into tiny pieces and reduces the risk of injury.
Laminated glass provides greater UV resistance and sound proofing compared to standard glass so it’s great for external balcony balustrading and internal glass walls.
So, we’ve established that glass is exceptionally versatile and practical. That’s exactly why Sunrock uses it for infinity glass balustrades because they match these qualities. Fabulous design features, adding interest and luxury they will add style and sophistication to your home or outside space.
All are designed to your specifications making sure that Sunrock balustrading helps to change your lifestyle and create a feeling of space from within as well as more living space outside. We guarantee everything will be compliant with UK building regulations.
Take a look through our product range to get some more ideas, or if you are ready for the next step then request a quote today. If you’re still unsure, feel free to Get in touch – we’d be happy to answer any questions or discuss a job you have in mind.