Annealed Glass
What is Annealed Glass?
Annealed glass, often referred to as float glass, is the most basic and widely used type of glass in residential and commercial applications. It is produced through a controlled cooling process known as annealing, which removes internal stresses, making the glass stable and easy to work with. While annealed glass is the minimum standard for glazing, it also serves as the foundation for other glass types, such as toughened, laminated, and Low-E glass.
The benefits of choosing annealed glass
Cost effective: Annealed glass is one of the most affordable glazing solutions, making it ideal for projects on a budget.
Excellent light transmission: Its clarity and high light transmission allow for bright, naturally lit spaces.
Thermal resistance: It offers sufficient thermal-stress resistance for most standard applications.
Wind load performance: Annealed glass provides adequate wind load resistance for most residential applications, ensuring durability in everyday conditions.
Customisation options: Available in a range of tones and obscure finishes to suit your design needs.
Annealed glass options
Annealed glass is highly versatile and can be adapted to meet various performance and design needs. Depending on your project requirements, we offer a range of options to ensure the perfect balance between aesthetics, safety, and functionality.
Standard glass
Standard annealed glass is the most affordable and widely used option for everyday applications. It’s perfect for areas where safety glazing isn’t required, providing excellent clarity, light transmission, and a sleek, minimal appearance.
Toughened glass
If your project requires added strength or compliance with safety regulations, toughened glass is a smart upgrade. Created by heating and rapidly cooling annealed glass, toughened glass is up to five times stronger and shatters into small, safe fragments upon impact. This makes it ideal for doors, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
Laminated glass
For areas requiring additional safety, sound insulation, or UV protection, laminated glass is the way to go. Made by bonding two layers of annealed glass with a durable interlayer, this option offers superior performance in security and noise reduction. If broken, the glass stays adhered to the interlayer, minimising injury risks.
Considerations for your annealed glass windows and doors
Choosing the right glass isn’t just about aesthetics—there are important regulations and performance factors to consider.
At WA Custom Glass, we’ll guide you through the process to ensure compliance with Australian Standards while helping you achieve your vision without compromise. Whether it’s safety, energy efficiency, or privacy, we’ve got you covered
Tone options
Annealed glass can be specified with a variety of tones to reduce glare, improve privacy, and limit solar heat gain. Tones like grey, neutral, or green are added during manufacturing, creating a lasting solution without the need for aftermarket films. Perfect for managing heat and light, toned glass can also improve the overall look of your home or office.
Obscure options
In some cases, toughened safety glass may be needed instead of annealed glass to meet safety or compliance standards. Obscure Grade A safety glass is a popular choice for bathrooms, bedrooms, and areas close to neighbouring properties, offering privacy without blocking out natural light.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about annealed glass to help you understand your options and make the best decision for your project.
While annealed glass is suitable for many standard residential applications, it is not classified as safety glass. If safety is a concern—for example, in doors, bathrooms, or low-level windows—toughened or laminated glass may be required to meet Australian Standards. Our experts can help ensure your glass complies with all regulations.
Standard annealed glass provides basic thermal performance, but for improved comfort, you can consider upgrading to Low-E glass or double glazing. These options improve insulation and help regulate your home’s temperature year-round.
Annealed glass offers minimal noise reduction. If sound insulation is a priority, laminated glass is a better option as it includes an interlayer designed to block external noise.
We offer our annealed glass in a variety of tones, such as grey or bronze, to reduce glare and improve privacy. You can also choose toughened obscure finishes for areas like bathrooms or front-facing windows where privacy is needed.
When annealed glass breaks, it shatters into sharp, irregular pieces. This is why it is not classified as safety glass. For areas at risk of impact, we recommend toughened or laminated glass, which break more safely and are compliant with safety regulations.
Annealed glass provides good light transmission but does not offer the best in energy efficiency by itself. To reduce heat transfer and improve energy performance, Low-E or toned glass can be added, or you can opt for double glazing for maximum efficiency.
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