The Case of the Glass Awning

February 28, 2018

By Lyle Hill

Question regarding glass awning:

Dear Glass Detective.

I am trying to cut down on street traffic noise when my window is open. So an upside down glass awing is being installed under my home’s 2nd floor window. The piece of glass acting as the awning will be 60” wide and 48” tall and will be installed at an angle from bottom to top. Also the house is 4 blocks from the beach so dampness is sometimes an issue. The question is: What is the best type of glass to use? 1/2” tempered, 1/2” laminate or 3/8” laminate?

Thank you.

-Roni G.

Answer to question regarding glass awning:

Hello Roni,

Thank you for your question on what type of glass will best suit an awning to cut down on road noise. Assuming the installation is in the U.S., it needs to be laminated to make overhead glazing code. Tempered-laminated is likely the best choice and I would suggest 1/2″. Have your installer confirm code requirements in your area and verify framing adequacy.

Thanks for contacting the Glass Detective!

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By Lyle Hill

Lyle Hill has been in the glass and metal industry for more than 40 years. In this time he has managed glass retail, contract glazing, mirror, architectural window, window film, and automotive glass businesses throughout America. He obtained an MBA from IIT with a focus on Technology and Engineering Management.

Hill is also a columnist for glass industry trade magazines and often called the “face” of the glass industry. He has also authored books including “The Broken Tomato and Other Business Parables,” which is available through Amazon.