When Is Tempered Glass Required by Code?

Introduction

Tempered glass is a type of safety glazing commonly required in building projects where glass breakage may pose a safety risk. Building codes specify when tempered glass must be used based on factors such as glass location, height, accessibility, and potential impact hazards. Common code-related requirements include windows near walking areas, glass doors, shower enclosures, railings, and other hazardous locations. This article explains when tempered glass is required by code and the key safety glazing requirements that help guide proper glass selection.

What is Tempered Glass? 

Tempered glass, also known as toughened glass, is a type of safety glass made by heating annealed glass to a high temperature and rapidly cooling it. This thermal treatment creates internal compressive stresses that significantly improve the glass's strength, durability, and resistance to thermal and mechanical stress. Unlike standard glass, tempered glass is designed to break into small, relatively harmless fragments instead of large sharp shards when damaged.

Because of its improved safety characteristics, tempered glass is commonly used in areas where glass failure could create a risk of injury. Its use is often required by building codes and safety glazing standards for specific locations, including doors, windows, shower enclosures, and other hazardous areas.

For more details about the manufacturing process, you can learn more about how tempered glass is made, including the heating and rapid cooling process used to improve glass strength and safety performance.

When Is Tempered Glass Required by Code?

Building codes are established to ensure safety in construction and renovation projects. Various codes, including the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Residential Code (IRC), mandate the use of tempered glass in certain locations due to safety concerns.

•  International Building Code (IBC): The IBC specifies the use of tempered glass in commercial and residential buildings, focusing on areas where impact is likely.

• International Residential Code (IRC): The IRC lays out guidelines for residential buildings, requiring tempered glass in specific areas to reduce the risk of injury.

Local building authorities may also have additional requirements, so it's essential to consult these codes to ensure compliance.

Common Locations Where Tempered Glass Is Required by Code

Tempered Glass Requirements for Windows

Windows are one of the most common locations where tempered glass may be required by building codes. Safety glazing requirements are typically based on factors such as glass size, height above the floor, and proximity to doors or walking areas.

Common situations include:

• Glass Near Doors: Glass panels located within 24 inches horizontally of a door or installed close to the floor may require tempered glass according to safety glazing requirements.

• Large Windows: Large glass panels may require tempered glass when the glazing area exceeds 9 square feet and the bottom edge is less than 18 inches above the floor, depending on the applicable building code.

These requirements help improve safety in residential and commercial buildings by reducing the risk of injury from accidental impacts.

Tempered Glass Requirements for Doors

Glass doors are considered a common hazardous location because they are frequently used by occupants and can present an increased risk of accidental impact if the glass surface is not clearly visible. Building codes generally require safety glazing materials for many glass door applications to reduce the risk of injury caused by glass breakage.

Common examples include:

• Sliding Glass Doors: Large sliding glass doors are commonly required to use tempered glass or other approved safety glazing materials.

• Full-Height Glass Doors: Entrance doors and other large glass door systems may require safety glazing depending on their location and design.

Tempered Glass Requirements for Skylights and Sloped Glazing

Skylights and sloped glazing are considered higher-risk applications because glass is installed overhead and may be exposed to impact from falling objects or accidental contact. Building codes may require safety glazing materials, including tempered glass or other approved glazing types, depending on the installation design and location.

Tempered Glass Requirements Near Stairways and Ramps

Glass installed near stairways, landings, and ramps is considered a higher-risk location because people may accidentally impact the glass during movement or falls. Building codes include safety glazing requirements for these areas to reduce the risk of injury caused by glass breakage.

Under common IRC safety glazing provisions, glass located within 36 inches horizontally of walking surfaces, such as stairs, ramps, and landings, may require safety glazing materials, including tempered glass, depending on the specific installation conditions.

Using appropriate safety glazing in these areas helps improve occupant protection and reduces the risk associated with accidental impact.

Tempered Glass Requirements for Shower Enclosures and Wet Locations

Wet locations, such as bathrooms, showers, and pool areas, are common places where safety glazing requirements apply. Because occupants are often close to the glass in these areas, accidental impact can create a risk of injury if the glass breaks.

Common examples include:

• Shower Doors and Enclosures: Shower glass is typically required to use safety glazing materials, with tempered glass being a commonly used option to reduce injury risks from breakage.

• Glass Near Pools and Spas: Glass panels or fencing installed around pools may require safety glazing depending on local codes and project conditions.

Using appropriate safety glazing in wet areas helps improve occupant safety and reduces the risks associated with accidental glass breakage.

Tempered Glass Requirements for Balustrades and Railings

Glass used in balustrades, railings, and partitions, particularly in areas where there is a risk of human impact, is required to be tempered. Whether it's a glass balcony railing or a stairway guard, tempered glass ensures both strength and safety. The durability of tempered glass in these applications prevents breakage and injury, making it a vital safety feature in high-traffic areas.

Depending on the applicable building codes and regional standards, such as those in America and Australia, different glass configurations may be required to meet safety, strength, and post-breakage performance requirements. Our Glass Railing Solutions for Americas and Australia guide provides further information on regional requirements and suitable glazing solutions.

How Tempered Glass Requirements Vary by Building Type and Location

Tempered glass requirements can vary depending on the building type, glass location, and applicable regulations. Residential and commercial projects may follow different code provisions, but both focus on reducing risks in areas where glass breakage could cause injury.

Tempered Glass in Residential Buildings

In residential buildings, tempered glass is often required in areas such as bathrooms, stairways, and near doors. Building codes specify the exact locations where tempered glass must be used to reduce the risk of injury. For example, windows located within 18 inches of the floor or larger than 9 square feet must use tempered glass.

Commercial and Public Spaces

Commercial buildings also have strict regulations regarding the use of tempered glass. Areas such as storefronts, glass partitions, and public restrooms often require tempered glass to ensure safety. These regulations are designed to protect occupants and reduce the risk of injury in high-traffic environments.

Regional Code Variations

While the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) set general guidelines for when tempered glass is required, local building codes may add additional requirements. It's essential to consult with local authorities to ensure compliance with specific regional regulations.

Ensuring Tempered Glass Compliance in Construction Projects

Verify Requirements Before Installation

Before installing tempered glass, project teams should confirm the applicable building codes, safety glazing requirements, and installation conditions for the specific application. Contractors and glazing professionals can help ensure that the selected glass type, thickness, and configuration meet project requirements.

Choose Glass Suppliers with Compliance Support

Selecting the right glass supplier is an important part of ensuring project compliance. A reliable supplier should be able to provide detailed product specifications, processing options, and technical support to help match the glass configuration with the project requirements and applicable standards.

With experience in architectural glass solutions, REACH BUILDING provides tempered glass products with customized sizes, processing options, and support for different project applications. Our team can assist in selecting suitable glass solutions based on specific design and performance requirements.

Conclusion

Tempered glass is an essential material in modern construction, required by code in various high-risk areas to ensure the safety and durability of buildings. Its impact-resistant properties, combined with the safety standards set by building codes, make it a vital choice for both residential and commercial projects.

By understanding when tempered glass is required by code, you can ensure compliance and enhance the safety of your building. Always consult with professionals to guarantee proper installation and meet all relevant safety standards. For your next project, reach out to REACH BUILDING to ensure your glass installations meet all code requirements and enhance the overall safety of your space.

FAQ

Q: When is tempered glass required by building code?

A: Tempered glass is required by building codes in high-risk areas such as near doors, windows less than 18 inches from the floor, and in wet locations like bathrooms and pools.

Q: What makes tempered glass different from regular glass?

A: Tempered glass is heat-treated to increase its strength and improve safety performance. Compared with regular annealed glass, it is more resistant to impact and breaks into small granular pieces instead of large sharp shards when damaged.

Q: Why is tempered glass required in certain areas?

A: Safety glazing is required in areas where glass breakage could create a higher risk of injury. These locations often include areas with frequent human contact, impact risks, or large glass surfaces near walking areas.

Q: What is the difference between tempered glass and laminated glass?

A: Both tempered glass and laminated glass can be used as safety glazing materials, but they perform differently. Tempered glass breaks into small fragments after breakage, while laminated glass is designed to hold together through an interlayer. The suitable option depends on the application and project requirements.

Q: Can tempered glass be used in all windows and doors?

A: No. Tempered glass is not required for every window or door. Building codes typically define requirements based on factors such as location, glass size, height above the floor, and proximity to areas where impact may occur.