September 9, 2025

Understanding British Standards for Glass: A Simple Guide for Homeowners




Compliance & Safety

Understanding British Standards for Glass: A Simple Guide for Homeowners

When you buy custom glass, safety and performance matter just as much as style. British Standards (BS/EN) make sure your glass is safe, durable, and building-reg compliant. Here’s the short, customer-friendly guide.

Safety First
Energy Efficient
UK Building Control
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Infographic: Understanding British Standards for Glass (BS EN 12150, 14449, 1279, 410) — safety, efficiency, compliance

What Are British Standards for Glass?

BS/EN standards define how glass should perform for safety, durability, and energy efficiency. Choosing certified glass means it’s been manufactured and tested to meet those requirements—giving you peace of mind and smoother approval with building control.


BS EN 12150 — Toughened Safety Glass

Heat-treated to be 4–5× stronger than ordinary glass. If it breaks, it crumbles into small blunt pieces.

  • Use it for: doors, shower screens, balustrades, shelves


BS EN 14449 — Laminated Glass

Two or more panes bonded with an interlayer (e.g., PVB). Even when broken, it stays in place.

  • Use it for: roof glazing, skylights, shopfronts, glass floors


BS EN 1279 — Insulated Glass Units (Double/Triple)

Covers thermal performance, gas retention, and condensation control for double/triple glazing.

  • Use it for: windows and external doors


BS EN 410 — Light & Solar Properties

Sets how much light and solar heat glass transmits, reflects, or absorbs—vital for tinted/solar-control glass.

  • Use it for: sun-facing rooms, glare reduction, heat control

Where Each Standard Usually Applies

Area Recommended Standard
Doors, shower screens, balustrades, shelves BS EN 12150 (Toughened)
Roof glazing, skylights, overhead areas, shopfronts BS EN 14449 (Laminated)
Windows & external doors (thermal) BS EN 1279 (IGUs)
Rooms needing glare/heat control BS EN 410 (Solar properties)

Safety

Reduces injury risk and improves impact performance.

Energy Efficiency

Better insulation and comfort; lower heating bills.

Regulation Compliance

Meets UK building control & helps with insurance.

How to Check Compliance

  • Look for a permanent stamp/mark in the corner of toughened glass.
  • Ask the supplier for compliance certificates (on request).
  • Avoid unmarked imports—cheap now, costly later.




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All products supplied by Glass Help Ltd are made to order and adhere to the relevant BS/EN standards where applicable.