Float Glass

This is the most common type of glass used in windows. It is made by melting sand, soda ash, and limestone and then floating the molten glass on a bed of molten tin to create a smooth and uniform surface. Float glass is strong, durable, and energy-efficient.

Float glass is mostly used in small windows in domestic housing, it has a completely even surface which provides a clear and undistorted display. It is perfect for housing due to its robustness against scratching, high-light transmission, and resistance to temperature changes.

It can be sold as plain or patterned and there are different types of thicknesses you can get in float glass, we stock 3mm, 4mm, and 6mm. 

Toughened Glass

This type of glass is made by heating float glass to a high temperature and then rapidly cooling it. This process makes the glass much stronger and more resistant to impact and thermal stress. Tempered glass is commonly used in windows such as patio doors and large windows.

Available in single or double units. Toughened glass is float glass which is then cut and sent off to be toughened in the furnace, which takes 7 days minimum and cannot be cut afterwards.

Toughened is a safety glass because when tempered, internal stresses are balanced which causes the glass, when broken, to crumble into smaller granular chunks instead of splinters making it less likely to cause injury. 

Laminated Glass

Laminated glass is a type of safety glass that is made by sandwiching a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) between two or more layers of glass. The PVB layer acts as an adhesive, bonding the layers of glass together and creating a strong and durable composite material.

Laminated glass is strong, durable, and provides better sound insulation and UV protection than other types of glass. It is commonly used in windows that require greater safety and security, such as hurricane-resistant windows.

Laminated glass comes in a variety of thicknesses and configurations, allowing it to be customized to meet specific needs and requirements.

Opening Times

7.30am - 5.30pm MONDAY to THURSDAY (except Welshpool opening from 7am)

7.30am - 5pm FRIDAY (except Welshpool opening from 7am)

7.30am - 4pm SATURDAY (except Shrewsbury 8am - 4pm)

10am - 4pm SUNDAY

PEFC-FSC

FSC® products available on request. Please contact your nearest branch for further information.

Our History

Company No. 215444

VAT Reg No. 159 0430 72

Learn about the Boys & Boden legacy, from saw mill to venerable builders' merchant.

history banner

Boysa and boden staff photo 1945
Contact Us