Glass Requirements in Australian Building Standards – A Simple Guide

If you’re a homeowner, chances are you’ve heard about the various building regulations and standards that ensure safety, comfort, and efficiency in your home. Among these, glass requirements play a crucial role in maintaining these standards. Whether you’re renovating or building from scratch, it’s essential to know what the Australian Standards say about glass.

So, what are the most common glass requirements you need to know?

Safety Glazing

Safety comes first, especially when it comes to glass in your home. For example, as a general guide, you must use Grade A safety glass including toughened or laminated glass:

• In all glass doors
• Bathrooms – for all areas up to 2m high
• Door side panels – if less than 300mm away from the door and positioned 1200mm or less above the floor
• Low level glass if larger than 1.2 m². Areas under 1.2 m² require a minimum of 5mm thickness of glass
• Areas that can be mistaken for openings (e.g.: full height windows)

Grade A Safety Glass is designed to break into small, less harmful pieces rather than sharp shards, see image below as an example. 

Australian Glass Standard AS 1288:2021 Glass in Buildings – Selection and Installation

Energy Efficiency

• Energy Efficiency U-Value (Insulating Value)

The U-Value measures how well a glass pane insulates against heat loss. The lower the U-Value, the better the glass is at keeping the heat inside during winter and outside during summer. Using glass with a low U-Value can significantly reduce your heating and cooling costs.

• Energy Efficiency SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient)

SHGC measures how much solar radiation passes through the glass and heats your home while also reducing infrared radiation. A lower SHGC means less heat is transferred inside, which is especially beneficial for windows exposed to direct sunlight. This helps keep your home cooler and reduces the need for air conditioning.

The two options for energy-efficient glass in the home are:

1. Low-E Performance Glass
2. Double Glazing

Reputable thermal performance service providers can be sourced from the Australian Building Sustainability Association (ABSA) where you can seek an independent energy efficiency assessment of your new home or renovation.

AS/NZS 4666 Insulating Glass Units, AS/NZS 2208 Safety Glazing Materials in Buildings, AS/NZS 1288 Glass in Buildings – Selection and Installation

Wind Ratings

Australia’s diverse climate means varying wind loads across different regions. Ensure that the glass used in your windows and doors meets the relevant wind load requirements for your area.

For example, in areas with very strong winds (like cyclones), windows and doors must be tested and certified to withstand high wind pressures. There are different categories, so glass used in high-wind areas must meet tougher requirements.

AS/NZS 1170.2:2011 – Structural Design Actions – Wind Actions

Construction of Buildings in Bushfire Prone Areas

In bushfire-prone areas, specific glass types are required to be able to withstand high temperatures and prevent ember attack. They must meet specific Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) ratings.

These include:

• Toughened Glass: Suitable for areas not subject to direct flame.

• Insulated Glass Units (IGUs): Provide better protection against radiant heat.

Using the right glass can protect your home and offers crucial protection during bushfire season.

Acoustic Performance

Nobody enjoys unwanted noise, especially in the comfort of their own home. The Australian Standards outline how acoustic-rated glass should be used in homes, particularly those in noisy environments like near highways or airports. Laminated or double-glazed glass with an acoustic interlayer typically enhances soundproofing reducing noise transmission, creating a quieter and more comfortable living environment.

Read more in our blog, “Laminated Glass vs Double Glazing – Which Soundproofing Glass is Better?”

Opaque/Obscure Glass for Privacy

For areas where privacy is a concern, such as bathrooms and bedrooms, opaque or obscure glass is recommended. This type of glass allows light to pass through while obscuring the view, ensuring privacy without sacrificing natural light.

Some council regulations specify the use of obscure glass for any windows overlooking a neighbour’s yard in two storey homes.

AS 1288:2021 – Glass in Buildings – Selection and Installation

Ready to get started?

Prioritising safety, efficiency, and comfort not only complies with Australian Standards but also enhances your living experience. Seek the advice of a qualified glass expert to make sure your project meets all Australian Standards & Building Regulations.

For more information on the Australian Standards listed above please visit the Consumer page on the Australian Glass & Window Association (AGWA) website linked here.