Glass: Your Go-To Choice for Modern Architecture
Glass brings versatility and elegance to architectural designs. Thanks to advancements like lamination and toughening, you can use glass in more innovative ways. High-performance glass from brands like Saint Gobain and Gold Plus in India pushes these boundaries further.
One popular use of glass is in skylights. Skylights combine practicality with aesthetic appeal, transforming any space.
Why Choose Glass for Skylights?
1. Long-Lasting Durability
Glass resists corrosion and stands strong against weathering, giving you decades of use.
2. Natural Light Enhancer
Let more sunlight in! Glass reduces your need for artificial lighting during the day.
3. Weather Toughness
Withstand rain, wind, and UV rays effortlessly with toughened or laminated glass.
4. Elegant Look
Give your space a sleek, modern touch. Skylights with glass elevate your architectural design.
5. Leak-Free Performance
Properly installed glass offers superior water sealing, keeping your interiors dry.
6. UV Protection
Protect your furniture and interiors from harmful UV rays with high-performance glass.
7. No Fading
Glass keeps its clarity and beauty even after years of exposure to sunlight, unlike plastic.
8. Noise Reduction
Say goodbye to noise pollution. Laminated and double-glazed glass dampens sound effectively.
9. Thermal Insulation
Specialized glass options maintain indoor temperatures and cut energy costs.
10. Eco-Friendly
Glass is recyclable, making it a greener choice compared to plastic alternatives.
11. Safety First
Even when broken, laminated glass stays in place, reducing injury risks.
12. Customizable Options
You can tailor glass thickness, coatings, and finishes to meet your exact needs.
13. Low Maintenance
Glass is easy to clean and stays scratch-free, keeping its shine for years.
Glass skylights are not just functional; they also add style and value to your home or building.
How to Fit Glass in Skylights
Stick Glazing
Stick glazing is simple and cost-effective. Here, the glass is fixed to a mild steel (MS) or aluminum frame using spacer tapes and silicone.
- Glass Options:
- For grids under 6 sq. ft. without heavy loads, choose 6mm toughened glass.
- For larger spans, go with 8mm to 12mm toughened glass for extra strength.
- Key Tips for Installation:
- Ensure the frame slopes at a 15° angle to drain water properly.
- Divide the frame into even sections based on glass size. Uneven gaps can weaken the structure.
- Use a section width of at least 45mm. This allows 18–20mm resting space and 6mm silicone gaps for secure installation.
By following these steps, you can ensure your skylight remains durable, functional, and visually appealing.
Important Points to Remember
- Frame Prep: Secure the frame to the curb and seal it to prevent leaks. Complete painting or finishing before glass installation.
Spacer Tapes: Use spacer tapes at least 6mm high and 12mm wide to ensure proper silicone bonding.
- Rainwater Management: Extend the glass slightly beyond the frame to direct water away from the curb. Add a gutter to collect and reuse rainwater effectively.
- Avoid These Mistakes:
- Never bond glass directly to the curb without a subframe. This weakens the installation and increases fall risks.
- Avoid inserting glass into grooves in walls. This can expose concrete to moisture, weaken silicone bonds, and cause water seepage.
- Never bond glass directly to the curb without a subframe. This weakens the installation and increases fall risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Glass Thickness Should You Use?
- For pieces up to 10 sq. ft., choose 10mm toughened glass.
- For larger pieces over 10 sq. ft., go for 12mm toughened glass.
Why Use Laminated Glass for Skylights?
Laminated glass is a safety choice. Even if it breaks, it stays intact, making it ideal for installations where people might walk on it. It also reduces noise and offers better strength than toughened glass.
What Section Size is Best?
- Use an MS section with a minimum size of 2” x 2”.
- Ensure the section can bear 1.5 times the weight of the glass. Multiply the total square footage of the glass by 2.3 (for 10mm) or 2.6 (for 12mm) to calculate its weight in kg.
What Slope Ensures Proper Water Drainage?
A 15° slope is essential for efficient water runoff. This angle works well for skylights, canopies, and other glass structures.
Need Help?
The author, Director of Nirmaan Glass, is here to assist. Reach out at [email protected] for expert guidance on skylight installation.
Transform your space with glass skylights today!