Glass flooring
From MaterialProject.org, the free architectural material catalog
Contents |
Material analysis
MasterFormat Number: 04 23 00
Definition
- A glass floor is a transparent section of a floor, found most often in buildings (usually in the observation decks of towers) or boats in order to facilitate viewing directly beneath where one is standing.Usually made of a reinforced glass, the most common use is as a tourist attraction. Glass as a flooring material is used in both residential and commercial structures. Special hollow glass blocks known as glass pavers are often used in combination with a metal frame.
Traditional uses
- Most common use is Tourist attraction in skyscrapers
- Flooring in lobby and public areas to create interest
Emerging uses / trends
- Load bearing structural glass safe for all office traffic
- Under floor video screens
- Visual access to under floor mechanical gauges in computer room application
- Corporate displays in general office areas
- Glass-bottom boats are popular for allowing a better view into the water
Finish and aesthetic qualities
- Translucent flooring may be specified for back-lighting applications
- Any color or combination of colors may be created to coordinate with site specific palettes and other motif elements
- Can be specified for any color, translucency, pattern or texture
- Can be used for logos
Surface forms / shapes
- Glass modules can be cut to any shape as per requirement
Cost analysis
- Varies as per glass thickness, shape (round will cost twice as much as square), glass spans and type of glass used
Material properties
Primary structural use
- Structural Flooring System
- Stair Treads & Landings
Material performance
- Slip resistance
- Panels easily removed to change display or reconfigure
- Can be combine with other panel surfaces such as wood, marble, metalics, laminates, etc.
- Floor becomes ‘high impact’ usable space.
- Non-Absorbent
- Non-Abrasive
Dimensional and opening restriction
- Glass modules that range in size from 12″ x 12″ to 40″ x 45″
- 3/8", 3/4", 1" thick
Manufacturing process and assembly
Most installations will involve the use of silicone/rubber setting blocks in conjunction with liquid silicone when installing the glass flooring. The glass will be siliconed directly to the structural support system which in turn provides a secure and safe installation for all involved. It is not recommended recommend to drill holes in glass flooring. Holes can weaken the glass and increases the chance of breakage. The silicone setting strips should be glued to the steel substructure before the glass is set.
1. Top Layer - Tempered Anti-Slip Glass 2. Lamination Layer – Resin, PVB, or EVA 3. Middle Layer - Tempered Glass 4. .060” Lamination Layer – Pour Resin, PVB, or PVA 5. Bottom Layer – Tempered Glass, pattern, or Slump cast glass [1]
Environment and Life Safety
Environmental impact
- Glass being recyclable satisfies the important parameter of being a “Green” building material.
Flammability rating
- fire-rated glass can be used
Coefficient of friction
- Glass & Glass
Dry - Static : 0.9 - 1.0 & Sliding : 0.4 Greasy - Static : 0.1 - 0.6 & Sliding : 0.09-0.12 [2]
References
Notes
3. http://www.nathanallan.com/products/productinfo/applications.htm
Student contributions
- Brinda Toprani, Spring 2009
- Zoe McDonald, Spring 2010
