30
Aug

Understanding the Strength and Durability of Glass Countertops

Glass countertops are flimsy, right? As such, they certainly won’t last very long.

Misconceptions are tough to shake, but sometimes, revealing the truth can open people’s minds and help them realize that they believed in incorrect ideas all along. That’s why we thought we’d use today’s post as an ode to the strength and durability of glass countertops.

Let’s get started!

glass island

Are Glass Countertops Strong?

If you’ve ever shattered a mirror or a window, you might be dubious about the strength of glass (not to mention its durability!). However, we must assure you that glass countertops aren’t made from window or mirror glass.

The glass is many times thicker, which alone lends it much more strength. If you don’t believe us, allow us to introduce you to the Mohs scale.

The Mohs scale measures the hardness of minerals, issuing them a score between 0 and 10. Talc is the least hard material with a score of 1, and diamond is the hardest with a score of 10.

Although you won’t see glass on most Mohs scale depictions, it does have its place on the scale. It’s ranked a 5, putting it squarely in the middle.

That makes glass as strong as apatite, which is also ranked a 5 in hardness. Fluorite is a 4, calcite a 3, and gypsum a 2, so glass is stronger than all that. Don’t forget talc, which glass exceeds on the Mohs scale.

For comparison, your fingernails have a hardness rating of about 2.5, a copper penny is a 3.5, and a knife is a 5.5.

Glass is very hard and thus strong!

glass kitchen island

Are Glass Countertops Durable?

You needn’t ponder the durability of glass countertops much either. Their strength and hardness prove their durability.

The glass we use to build our custom countertops can withstand everyday wear and tear with aplomb. If you lightly scratch the surface (you know, accidentally, as you shouldn’t try to scratch glass intentionally!), you can buff it out with toothpaste and a microfiber cloth.

Glass counters don’t break nearly as easily as window glass. They’re not impervious to breakage, but it would take great force for it to happen.

After all, glass is heat-resistant, so even hot temperatures from food straight out of the oven isn’t enough to wear glass down! 

Ready to Get Your Custom Glass Project Underway?

Glass countertops are a smart, durable choice for your kitchen or bathroom. Their unyielding strength means you can enjoy your counters for years, and their appeal never diminishes.

If you’re interested in adding glass counters to your kitchen or bathroom, contact the pros at CBD Glass. We can build you a custom creation in any shape or size.

With our unique backpainting services, LED lighting, and glass texturing, your counters will do more than serve your family, they’ll become a focal point in your home and one that you’re certainly proudest of!