When you’re managing or selecting glass for a commercial building, you would find two glass options – wired glass and fire-rated glass.

But which one should you choose?

What risks and benefits does each bring? install

What about building codes and practical installation realities for both?

It’s natural to feel confused by all these questions that might be running through your mind right now!

When it comes to installing commercial glass for storefronts, offices, corridors, stairwells, or exit doors, it’s not just about looks. You’re also choosing materials that are safe, meet building codes, reduce liability, and last for years.

In this blog, we’ll explain the practical, safety, and regulatory differences so you can make the right choice.

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What is Wired Glass and Fire-Rated Glass?

❖ Wired Glass

Wired glass has a metal mesh embedded inside, which holds the pieces together when the glass breaks. This wire also gives it some heat and fire resistance compared to regular glass. It has a visible grid-like pattern and is commonly used in schools, factories, stairwells, and service areas.

Pros of Wired Glass

More affordable than modern fire-rated glass.
Easy to find and install.
Offers limited fire and heat resistance.

Cons of Wired Glass

The wire mesh weakens the glass and can cause injury when broken.
Provides less fire protection than modern fire-rated glass.
Restricted by many building codes in high-traffic or exit areas (Source)
The mesh look doesn’t fit modern, open designs.

❖ Fire-Rated Glass

Fire-rated glass is mainly designed and tested to resist fire, heat, and smoke for a specific time, usually 20 to 120 minutes. It meets strict safety standards and helps stop flames and hot gases from spreading.

Some types also block heat transfer and radiant heat, keeping nearby areas and people safe. However, it must always be installed with a certified frame and hardware system for full protection.

Pros of Fire-Rated Glass

Provides strong protection against flames, smoke, and heat.
Ideal for fire doors, stairwells, and exit corridors.
Clear and modern appearance with no wire mesh.
Meets building codes easily and reduces inspection risks.

Cons of Fire-Rated Glass

More expensive than wired or regular glass.
Must be installed as a certified glass + frame system.
Requires expert installation to meet safety standards.

Wired Glass Vs. Fire-Rated Glass – An Overall Comparison

Feature	Wired Glass	Fire-Rated Glass
Fire Resistance	Limited, slows heat only	Contains flames and smoke for 45-90+ minutes.
Impact Resistance	Moderate, but hidden dangers	High, designed for safety
Visibility	Obstructed by mesh	Crystal clear
Aesthetics	Industrial/traditional	Modern, sleek
Cost	Lower upfront	Higher but safer/longer lasting
Code Compliance	May no longer suffice	Meets/exceeds codes
Best For	Lower risk zones, secondary areas, cost-sensitive choice (with caution)	Primary egress zones, fire-rated walls/doors, high-risk zones, flagship installations

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How to Choose the Right Glass for Your Commercial Building

1. Know the Location and Fire Requirements

Check where the glass will be installed – in a wall, door, stairwell, or exit corridor. Ask what fire rating (in minutes) is required by code.

If it’s a high-risk or egress area, go with fire-rated glass.
For low-risk interiors, wired glass might be acceptable.

2. Match Glass with the Right Frame System

Fire-rated glass only works if the frame, anchors, and hardware are also fire-rated; otherwise, the rating is void.
With wired glass, check your local building codes to confirm if it’s still permitted for that type of opening.

Always choose a tested, certified glass + frame system to stay compliant.

3. Think Beyond Fire Safety

Modern buildings also need clear views, natural light, and strong impact resistance.
Wired glass offers basic fire protection but reduces visibility because of the mesh.

If you want a modern, open look with better strength and clarity, go for clear fire-rated glass.

4. Consider Cost vs. Long-Term Value

Wired glass may be cheaper upfront, but it can lead to failed inspections or replacement costs later.
Fire-rated glass offers better protection and lower liability in the long run.

5. Hire a Local Expert

Work with a licensed glass company that understands local codes.

At Central Glass Inc., our team specializes in commercial glass installation, repair, and fire-rated glazing systems. We’ll help you choose the right option based on your requirements and other standards.

We’ll Clear Common Doubts on Wired Glass and Fire-Rated Glass

1. Can I just replace old wired glass with modern fire-rated glass in the same frame?

Not always. You need to check if the existing frame is rated for the new glass.

If the frame was certified for a specific glass type and rating, replacing it with another (even if fire-rated) can cancel the certification.
If the frame is non-rated or the opening exceeds the tested size for the new glazing, you might need to replace or upgrade the frame as well.

2. Is wired glass still allowed under current building codes?

Yes, in some jurisdictions and in specific applications, wired glass is still permitted. However, many codes restrict their use in high-traffic areas, large vision panels, or where impact resistance or radiant heat limitation is required.

3. How much more does fire-rated glass cost compared to wired glass?

It varies based on rating (minutes), size, manufacturer, lamination/interlayer types, finish, project location, and installation complexity. Wired glass is generally less expensive, but the difference should be looked at in terms of long-term value, compliance, and risk.

Central Glass Inc. gives you a detailed breakdown for your specific opening. We provide cost comparisons, code requirements, frame compatibility checks, and guidance on the safest, most cost-effective glazing option for your building. This will help you make an informed decision.

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Takeaway

When it comes to commercial glazing, whether for storefronts, partitions, corridors, or stairwells, the choice isn’t just about looks. It’s about safety and code compliance.

Wired glass still has limited use, but for most modern buildings, fire-rated glazing systems offer better protection and performance.

You need to remember a few things before making a choice.

Identify the zone, fire rating, and frame type first.
Don’t assume a glass is safe just because it has wire mesh.
Always check the full system certification – glass, frame, and hardware.
Balance upfront cost with long-term safety, compliance, and value.
Partner with a trusted commercial glass company in that knows the local codes and installation standards.

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Ready to Upgrade Your Building’s Safety Glazing? Central Glass Inc. Will Help You the Right Way

If you’re looking for a trusted glass company in Sacramento, you’re at the right place.

At Central Glass Inc., we help you understand the difference between wired and fire-rated glass and find the right glazing solution for your commercial building.

Our certified team is an expert in glass repair and glass installation in Sacramento.

We partner with major manufacturers of fire-rated glazing and stay current with code updates in Sacramento, California. We make sure that each job is done correctly, safely, and according to code.

Call us at 916-944-7179 to book your commercial glass service today.

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