Tempered glass differs from regular (annealed) glass primarily in strength and breakage pattern. Created through a thermal tempering process that heats glass to approximately 1200°F followed by rapid cooling, tempered glass develops high compression on surfaces and tension in the center, making it 4-5 times stronger than regular glass. While annealed glass breaks into large, dangerous shards, tempered glass shatters into small, relatively harmless cubes—a critical safety feature. However, unlike regular glass, tempered glass cannot be cut, drilled, or modified after processing without shattering. Building codes require tempered glass in hazardous locations including doors, windows near floors, shower enclosures, and stair railings. Each piece carries permanent identification stamps in the corner certifying its safety rating.
