Laminated glass and toughened (or tempered) glass are both safety glasses used in various applications, including sliding doors. While both have their advantages, there are specific benefits to using laminated glass in sliding doors:

1. Enhanced Safety:

• Breakage Pattern: When laminated glass breaks, the plastic interlayer holds the broken pieces together, reducing the risk of injury from sharp shards. In contrast, toughened glass shatters into small, granular pieces, which are less dangerous than regular glass shards but can still cause minor injuries.

2. Security:

• Burglar Resistance: The interlayer in laminated glass can make it more difficult to break through, providing an added layer of security against burglaries or forced entry. Although it’s a lot more difficult to cleanly enter with laminated glass, like the saying goes, “if someone wants to get in they will”. Laminated will just make it a lot more difficult and it’ll create one hell of a racket!

3. Noise Reduction:

• Acoustic Insulation: Laminated glass can offer better acoustic insulation compared to toughened glass. The plastic interlayer can help dampen sound waves, making it a good choice for homes or offices near busy streets or noisy areas.

4. UV Protection:

• Fade Reduction: The interlayer in laminated glass can block up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, thereby protecting furniture, artwork, and other interior elements from fading over time.

5. Versatility in Design:

• Customization: Laminated glass can be customized with tinted or patterned interlayers, allowing for a variety of aesthetic and privacy options.

6. Structural Integrity:

• Post-Breakage Stability: Even after breakage, laminated glass remains in its frame, maintaining a level of structural integrity and preventing immediate collapse, which can be crucial for preventing accidents or intrusions.

7. Energy Efficiency:

• Climate Control: By selecting specific interlayers, laminated glass can offer better insulation properties, helping to maintain indoor temperatures and potentially reducing energy costs.

8. Application in Hurricane or Seismic Zones:

• Resistance to Natural Disasters: Laminated glass is often preferred in areas prone to hurricanes, earthquakes, or other natural disasters as it can remain intact even when shattered.

Conclusion:

While toughened glass also provides safety benefits and may be more cost-effective, the choice between laminated and toughened glass for sliding doors depends on the specific requirements of the application, including safety, security, noise reduction, and aesthetics.