Ikkunalasin

Ikkunalasin is a Finnish term that translates to "window glass" or "pane glass." It refers to the transparent material used in windows to allow light to enter a building while providing a barrier against the elements. Historically, window glass was a luxury, and many older buildings featured smaller panes or even shutters. The development of larger, more affordable glass manufacturing techniques significantly changed architectural possibilities.

Modern ikkunalasin can be made from various types of glass, each with specific properties. Common types include float glass, which is produced by floating molten glass on a bed of molten tin, resulting in a very flat and smooth surface. For improved insulation, double or triple glazing is often used, where two or more panes of glass are separated by a gap filled with air or an inert gas. This reduces heat transfer, making buildings more energy-efficient.

Other specialized types of ikkunalasin exist for particular applications. Tempered glass, also known as safety glass, is heat-treated to increase its strength. If broken, it shatters into small, relatively harmless pieces. Laminated glass, composed of two or more layers of glass bonded together with a plastic interlayer, offers enhanced security and can prevent shattering. Low-emissivity (low-E) glass has a transparent coating that reflects infrared light, further improving thermal performance by keeping heat inside during winter and outside during summer. The choice of ikkunalasin depends on factors such as desired insulation, safety requirements, aesthetics, and cost.