Commercial Glazing Material Spec
IGU construction explained — commercial insulating glass unit anatomy
An IGU (insulating glass unit) is a multi-pane glass assembly with sealed air space between lites. Standard Florida commercial: 1" overall IGU = 1/4" outboard low-E + 1/2" argon air space + 1/4" laminated impact inboard. Spacer (Super Spacer, Intercept, TPS) seals the perimeter; sealant seals the edge.
Why argon gas in the air space?
Argon is denser than air, reduces convective heat transfer across the air space, and improves U-factor by 5-15%. Standard on commercial IGUs unless cost-engineered out.
What's the typical IGU edge-seal warranty?
10 years on commercial IGUs from tier-one manufacturers (Vitro Architectural Glass, Viracon, Guardian). Failure mode is moisture intrusion past the perimeter sealant, visible as condensation between the panes. Replacement requires IGU swap, not full opening replacement.
When do I need a 1-1/4 inch or 1-1/2 inch IGU?
Specialty applications. Cold storage commercial. Acoustic-priority projects (recording studios, performance halls, hospital ICUs). High-wind-load assemblies that require thicker glass for structural reasons. Standard commercial Florida is 1 inch IGU.