Glazing Technologies

The Ultimate Guide to Heated Glass

How Does Heated Glass Work?

Heated glass is coated with a semi conductive, transparent metal oxide layer, which activates and radiates heat when electricity flows through it from concealed buzz bars at the head and base of the glass unit.  

The transparent metal oxide coating is positioned within the inner surface of the outer glass pane to provide the utmost comfort, and the buzz bars are strategically concealed within the unit to ensure views remain unobstructed. 

 

How is Heated Glass Controlled? 

Heated glass can achieve temperatures ranging from 20° to 60°C, reaching the latter in as little as 20 minutes thanks to its low thermal mass. 

When the wattage output of the glazing exceeds 100 W/m2, it is necessary to regulate the glass temperature using a room thermostat in combination with a temperature sensor positioned within the glass unit. 

Additionally, heated glass can be integrated into building and home automation systems like any other electrical heating solution, as the system’s control panel can be placed as far as 50m away from the heated glass units. 

 

Heated Glass Applications 

Depending on the desired function, heated glass can be used as an alternative heat source or simply to stop condensation from forming on glazing systems. In areas where snow or ice build-up are a concern, the heated surface can be placed on the outside of the glass panes to avoid any cold-related sediments. 

 

Cornwall Terrace 

Frameless heated interior windows were incorporated into this spa renovation to create an open, broken plan design. This effectively divided the expansive interiors while preserving visibility across the entire floorplan. With such a highly glazed design, IQ’s Heated Glass plays a crucial role in ensuring the internal glazing remains completely free of moisture. 

 

 

Claywood House 

This low-carbon build combines unique materials and high-performance glazing to create a sustainable home. To achieve this, the design incorporated slim triple glazed sliding doors equipped with IQ’s heated glass in and around the indoor swimming pool, guaranteeing complete relief from condensation regardless of fluctuations in temperature. 

 

 

Britten Street 

In lieu of traditional underfloor heating, IQ implemented a specialized heated glass floorlight in a modern two-story rear extension in Chelsea, providing a much needed additional light source to the whole build.  

By installing the heated floorlight directly below the rooflight, the resulting design allows light to permeate into the otherwise obscured basement rooms. 

Controlled via thermostat, dwellers are enabled to enjoy sky views and natural daylight while radiating as much or as little heat as they desire.  

 

 

Cheshire Pool House 

Embracing a Miesian design approach, this pool house design incorporates two entire walls of heated glass, seamlessly blending structural glass walls with slim framed sliding glass doors. As the upper and lower glass panes are heated to prevent condensation accumulation on both floors, the glass remains consistently clear. 

 

 

Want to know more? Contact the IQ team today to discuss heated glass for your next project.