Types of Glass and Materials

Understanding glass quality and types helps you guide customers to the right products and justify price differences.

Borosilicate Glass (Scientific Glass)

The gold standard for quality glass products.

• Contains boron trioxide, making it heat-resistant
• Withstands temperature changes without cracking
• More durable and longer-lasting
• Preferred by serious enthusiasts
• Higher price point, but worth it

Soft Glass (Soda-Lime Glass)

Standard glass used in less expensive pieces.

• Less heat resistant
• More prone to cracking from temperature changes
• Lower price point
• Acceptable for occasional use
• More common in imported pieces

Quartz

Premium material for specific components.

• Extremely heat resistant
• Used primarily in bangers for concentrates
• Crystal clear appearance
• Superior heat retention
• Premium price point

Silicone

Growing in popularity for practical reasons.

• Virtually unbreakable
• Easy to clean
• Travel-friendly
• Often combined with glass components
• Great for clumsy or active customers

How to Identify Quality:

1. 1Thickness: Hold pieces up to light - even thickness indicates quality
2. 2Weight: Heavier usually means better quality glass
3. 3Clarity: Clear, bubble-free glass is higher quality
4. 4Welds: Joint connections should be smooth, not lumpy
5. 5Price: Very cheap pieces are usually lower quality

Talking to Customers About Quality:

"This piece is borosilicate glass, which means it can handle heat changes without cracking. It costs more upfront but will last much longer than a cheaper piece."