Architectural Glass FAQ

Architectural glass is used in both interior and exterior applications, including:

• Building façades and curtain walling
• Rooflights, skylights, and atriums
• Glass balustrades and canopies
• Interior partitions and lift shafts
• Glass entrances and shopfronts

OAG provides custom glass solutions for commercial, residential, transport, and public sector projects across the UK.

There are many types of architectural glass, including:

• Toughened glass for strength and safety
• Laminated glass for impact resistance and security
• Insulated glass units (IGUs) for thermal and acoustic control
• Low-E coated glass to improve energy efficiency
• Fritted or printed glass for decoration or solar shading
• Fire-rated and blast-resistant glass for specialised environments

Each glass type is selected based on its intended use and required performance.

Architectural glass offers a range of benefits:

• Daylight transmission to improve occupant wellbeing
• Aesthetic flexibility with a wide variety of finishes and formats
• Energy efficiency through high-performance coatings and double/triple glazing
• Safety and security using toughened and laminated systems
• Environmental performance with recyclable materials and BREEAM compatibility

Glass also contributes to a building’s visual identity and spatial experience.

Yes. Architectural glass is manufactured and tested to meet UK safety standards, including BS EN 12150 (toughened glass) and BS EN 14449 (laminated glass). Safety is enhanced by using appropriate thicknesses, interlayers, and support systems, all engineered to suit the application.

Absolutely. Laminated glass and IGUs can significantly reduce noise transmission — essential for buildings in busy urban environments or near transport infrastructure. OAG works with acoustic consultants to specify glass that meets required Rw (sound reduction) values while maintaining design intent.

Modern architectural glass contributes greatly to a building’s energy performance. Technologies such as:

• Low-emissivity coatings
• Solar control layers
• Thermal spacers in IGUs
• Triple glazing

…all help reduce heating and cooling loads. OAG designs systems that meet or exceed Part L requirements and support sustainability certifications such as BREEAM and WELL.

Yes. Architectural glass is one of the most customisable materials in construction. Options include:

• Etching, tinting, or colour interlayers
• Digital printing for branding or wayfinding
• Curved or shaped panels
• Smart glass technologies like switchable glazing

OAG works with leading suppliers to develop custom glass features that align with the building’s identity and purpose.

Glass installation requires careful coordination with structure, framing, and finishes. OAG installs architectural glass using:

• Framed and frameless systems
• Structural silicone bonding
• Point-fixed glazing and glass fin systems
• Unitised curtain wall systems

We manage logistics, lifting, and fixing on-site using specialist equipment and experienced teams.