Construction is one of the technical fields that affect people’s daily lives. Construction projects are carried out for transportation, accommodation, as well as other commercial and recreational purposes. Over the years, the construction industry has witnessed various changes. One of the most profound changes witnessed is the use of different materials to achieve set construction goals. These materials are used depending on their suitability to the project as well as the client’s preferences. Glass is one of the commonly used materials by commercial general contractors. The continued use and popularity of glass are influenced by various aspects; some of which are explained in this article.
Uses Of Glass As A Construction Material
As stated earlier, glass is one of the most common materials used in the construction industry today. Most of the uses of glass are practical with the help of technological developments. Some popular uses of glass in construction include:
- Aesthetic uses- Both interior and exterior design require attention to detail to complete a construction project to satisfy clients. Commercial general contractors have resorted to glass for aesthetic finishes inside and outside the building they construct. In interior design, glass is used in the manufacturer of ornaments and furniture: various design guides associate glass with a representation of water. Therefore, where actual water is inapplicable, glass detailing is used to give its impression. Other finishes such as bathroom doors, give the building a great impression. Different glass patterns are used on windows and doors for decoration. Religious buildings such as churches use colored glass windows to give a religious impression.
- Structural construction- Technological developments and element modifications have made it possible to use glass in structural construction. The reasons for using glass in structural constructions range from economic considerations to lighting goals. Glass blocks are used to construct fairly loaded walls to allow maximum lighting of rooms. Additionally, the cost of acquiring glass blocks is relatively cheaper than other materials. Glass blocks made from recycled waste glass cost less to produce and help clear the environment. In the case of high-rise structures, glass panels are used for walling. Their lightweight makes it easy to transport to the site and install as required.
There are several other uses of glass as a construction material. The need for glass in construction determines the amount and form of glass used. In some cases, such as pavement construction, glass is used in powder form. The amount of glass used depends on the size of the construction project. If glass powder is needed for the construction of pavements, it implies that a lot of glass would be ground to meet the requirement. Various glass manufacturers provide glass in different forms for construction purposes. However, some commercial general contractors have the equipment to convert glass into a form they might need. In such cases, lesser expenses are incurred in acquiring the glass for construction projects.
Advantages Of Glass As A Construction Material
Several factors contribute to the popularity of glass as a construction material. Some of these factors are related to the client while others are associated with the commercial general contractors. Here are some reasons why one might choose glass as a construction material.
- It improves the aesthetic value of a structure- One of the main uses of glass in construction is aesthetics. After construction, finishing plays an important role in making the constructed structure habitable. Glass is one of the most used materials in interior design for aesthetic benefits. Its ability to shine when polished makes it ideal for use in making ornaments and other furniture.
- It is eco-friendly- While environmental conservation has taken a center stage in conversations within the construction industry, glass is one of the materials most technicians are inclined to. The use of recycled glass as a construction material helps conserve the environment and reverse pollution.
- It is economical- Glass is used to cut down the costs of construction. Its lightweight nature reduces the costs of mobilization and installation. Additionally, fewer resources are spent on the construction of superstructures with glass walls. Waste glass is readily available in different parts of the world. Recycling waste glass saves on costs incurred in the acquisition of construction material.
- It can be put to diverse uses- Unlike other construction materials, glass can be put to alternative uses. Glass can be easily transformed into various forms to fit specific uses. As stated earlier, glass in powder form can be used as a material in pavement construction. Alternatively, glass can be melted and molded into ornaments for interior design and decorations. Thick glass panels can be used as doors and windows in areas with exposure to likely breakages. Glass blocks are used in the construction of walls for adequate lighting of rooms. Glass walls could also act as focal points in interior design concepts.
There are several other uses of glass as a construction material. The use of glass depends on clients’ preferences.
Considerations To Make When Selecting a Contractor for Glasswork
Despite the benefits, glass requires technical skills for maximum benefits as a construction material. The growing popularity and demand for glass have led to an increased number of commercial general contractors who claim to be qualified for jobs. This places clients at risk of financial losses and time wastage due to poor workmanship.
When looking for a contractor to handle glass-related construction works, one should consider the availability of equipment. The contractor should have adequate equipment to safely handle and install glass components as required. In the case of glass panels on high structures, the contractor should have proper lifting equipment. Using modern technology in operations guarantees the safety of both the glass and technicians involved.
Availability of technical skills is another essential aspect to look at when employing a contractor. The contractor should have enough technicians to get the job done. The technicians should be well-skilled to deliver excellent work in a professional manner. Other essential factors to consider include the cost of construction and the nature of the project. The construction process should be affordable depending on one’s financial status.
Like other construction materials, glass has several disadvantages. However, the disadvantages are way less than the benefits if used appropriately. Before deciding to use glass, one should consult experts to ensure the glass is an applicable material.