Fire Rated Glass: Tempered vs PyroCeram Ceramic Glass

We supply tempered and PyroCeram® glass for fireplace and woodstove doors as well as other high temperature glass applications.  

Tempered glass is heat treated to make it up to 5 times stronger than regular annealed glass. Tempered glass has a thermal shock rating of 400 degrees F. It is commonly used in fireplace screens or other high temperature scenarios. We sell a variety of clear, tinted, and textured tempered glass to suit a variety of needs, including fire rated GPW and GCW glass. For woodstoves, gas stoves, cast-iron stoves, and enclosed fireplaces we recommend PyroCeram® glass. It is commonly referred to as glass, but it is a transparent ceramic. This highly transparent ceramic glass has virtually (0) zero thermal expansion. It is produced in flat, rolled sheets. It is excellent for passing UV while blocking IR. 

As mentioned, tempered glass is much stronger than regular annealed glass, but PyroCeram® is much stronger than tempered glass far as impact strength is concerned and can withstand a thermal shock rating of 1380 degrees F, making it ideal for any application where high temperature tolerance is required. PyroCeram® has a slight amber tint, slight texture, and is available in 5mm (3/16”) thickness. Breakage usually occurs because of impact, or the retaining hardware was too tight or during eventual thermal breakdown which can take several years or even decades.

This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces and woodboring stoves.

Curious if this might be the best type of glass for your project? Contact us and we would be happy to help or Click Here to order now.