Interior Glass: Not Just For Looks
When designing interior glass, you must consider both structural concerns and code requirements to ensure safety, functionality, and performance—
Here are some important code items and other concerns to consider:
Code References
Regarding differential horizontal movement:
From Both the IBC 2021 Section 2403.4 and FBC 2023 Section 2403.4, Interior Glazed Areas: Where interior glazing is installed adjacent to a walking surface, the differential deflection of two adjacent unsupported edges shall not be greater than the thickness of the panels when a force of 50 pounds per linear foot is applied horizontally to one panel at any point up to 42 inches above the walking surface.
Commentary: Think of this as ‘don’t get your fingers caught in the glass’… Someone leans against the glass, someone else puts their finger in the hole created, a person leans off the glass…
Regarding what evenly distributed load to put on the glass:
From IBC 2021 Section 1604.16 & FBC 2023 Section 1604.15, Interior Walls & Partitions: Interior walls and partitions that exceed 6 feet in height, including their finish materials, shall have adequate strength to resist the loads to which they are subjected but not less than a horizontal load of 5psf.
Commentary: Engineering Express prefers to design to 10psf due to other codes and standards outside the scope of this summary (such as ASCE-7), something to consider (also called the ‘shake test’). Anchorage, framing, glass strength per ASTM E1300 all need to be considered and designed to with this force applied to all portions of the glazed surface simultaneously.
Other Interior Glass Use Considerations
If the glass is to be used as a guardrail, all requirements of guardrails apply (see this article).
Fully tempered glass needs to be used where required by code in areas subject to impact (such are near doors, floors, stairwells, or as room dividers.
Safety glass must be permanently labeled with its standard of compliance. Safety glass is typically found in bathrooms and other areas where injury is an increased risk.
In Closing
These are just some of the many code issues and items to address with interior glass design.
Always consult a licensed professional, even when installing interior glass to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the public and property you are designing for.
Contact us to help with your interior glass design or submit a request for quote for us to design your next interior glass project.
Last Update: August 7, 2025