Bigger, brighter, louder—as large-scale commercial and residential construction booms alongside growing urban populations, there are ever-increasing demands on buildings to keep occupants insulated from the intrusive sights and sounds of expanding cities. Add in the fact that many nations, states, and municipalities have adopted stricter energy efficiency standards for new constructions, and it is clear the market for value-added glass is prime for growth.

Value-added glass refers to glass that has been enhanced to offer additional functionalities beyond basic transparency. For example, smart or switchable glass, which can change its opacity or tint in response to electrical, thermal, and light signals, provide buildings with both improved solar control and privacy.