Follow-Ups to Answer from Expert Chris Radan

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Russ wrote at 2007-10-07 00:01:43
I would like a little more clarification on this please. My undersatnding of the building codes is that any glazing that occurs below 18" floor line is required to be a safety glazed material i.e. tempered, laminated, etc.

The code is a vague as to the need to do both lites in a insulated unit but we have also sided to the safe side and tempered both lites. Safety glass is required in all doors and within 6'-0" of a door as well. Again getting clear cut interpution of this law is tough and would welcome seeing this myself. I believe the Attorney General has address this issue of safety glazing in 1975 staing the stae laws are in conflict with the federal of The Safety Glazing Material Act of 1973. Bottom line I believe the use of tempered glazing is the correct choice.

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Bill M wrote at 2009-11-02 07:20:01
Another option for operable windows is to temper just the lower sash. this would only work for windows that are single hung or double hung. Since tempered windows are more expensive this could help offset the costs while still providing safety.

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Window Man wrote at 2010-10-05 22:38:27
Here is how the code reads: If the glass is within 18" of the finished floor and it extends up above 36" above the finished floor and the glass surface is 9 sq ft or greater , then you must temper the glass. Note that it must meet all 3 of the criteria for the code to require tempered glass. Just being within 18" of the floor does not automatically require tempered glass. As far as the bath or shower window it is always a good idea to temper the glass but the code specifically requires tempered glass if the window is within 5' of the drain.

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Bruce wrote at 2010-12-20 18:56:10
The tempering requirement also depends upon if the glass location is within a fall zone (i.e.: tub/shower or next to a door or within a certain distance of the door on an adjacent wall) and also depends upon what city/county you live and what building code that have adopted.

Bruce

Licensed Architect, State of Texas

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Hugh wrote at 2011-06-23 16:55:35
Less than 18" off the ground and within 12" of a door so yes they need to be tempered. If any contractor tells you they do not than do not use them. I also try to push tempered in kids bedrooms even though it is not required because plate glass can do a lot of damage to a person when it breaks.The cost increase to go with tempered is only about $4.00 bucks a sq. ft. to you any way. Also, always use tempered in showers and around bath tubes. It amazes me how many glass shops put plate glass were tempered should go. I would go with the company that told you that you have to go with tempered because who knows what else the other companies will skip over

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