Why Glass Thickness Matters

Thickness directly affects a panel’s strength, rigidity, and safety. Too thin and it can flex or even crack; too thick and you may overspend unnecessarily. The key is balancing performance and price. In the UK, most domestic shelves use 6–10 mm toughened glass, while dining or coffee tables usually require 8–12 mm. The right thickness ensures your glass won’t bow under weight or stress, even after years of daily use.

Think of thickness as the “backbone” of your design — subtle but critical. Glass that’s just a few millimetres thicker can support double the load and provide much better impact resistance. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to go one size up rather than risk under-specification.

Recommended Thickness by Application

These guidelines follow UK industry standards (BS EN 12150 and BS EN 14449) for safety glazing and performance.

Types of Glass You Can Choose

Not all glass is created equal. Beyond clarity and color, each type brings a distinct advantage depending on your space and use.

• Clear Float: The standard, versatile choice — perfect for minimalist interiors.
• Low-Iron: Offers crystal clarity with reduced green tint, ideal for premium furniture.
• Tinted: Available in bronze, grey, or green shades — adds style and reduces glare.
• Frosted / Satin: Provides privacy while allowing natural light diffusion.
• Toughened (Tempered): Up to five times stronger than regular glass and breaks safely into small granules.
• Laminated: Combines two panes with an interlayer that holds fragments together if broken.

For shelves and table tops, toughened glass is the industry standard. Laminated glass is best for environments needing enhanced safety — such as family homes or public spaces.

Edge Finishes & Corners

The edges of your glass aren’t just decorative — they contribute to both safety and style. Choose from:

• Flat-Polished: Smooth, straight edges giving a clean, modern finish.
• Bevelled: Angled cut edges for a luxurious, decorative touch.
• Safety Edge (Arris): Corners slightly rounded off to prevent injury.
• Radius Corners: Rounded corners (5–25 mm radius) that blend seamlessly into modern interiors.

These details might seem small, but they elevate your furniture’s quality and ensure no sharp surfaces remain exposed — especially important for family homes or workplaces.

Final Thoughts

Glass furniture brings timeless elegance, but quality and specification make all the difference. When ordering glass shelves or table tops, focus on three essentials: thickness, edge finish, and safety rating. With proper selection, your glass won’t just look beautiful — it will perform reliably for years.

Whether you need small floating shelves or a statement dining table top, you can design and order bespoke panels online at GlassHelp.co.uk. Every panel is cut to your size, finished to perfection, and delivered safely across the UK.