Wired glass has largely been displaced in hazardous locations (doors, sidelights, shower enclosures) by tempered and laminated glass under ANSI Z97.1 and IBC requirements, because its impact resistance is lower than these alternatives. It may still be permitted in certain fire-rated assemblies where the wire mesh provides the required integrity rating, but specifiers should confirm compliance with the applicable local code and fire-rating test standard.

Wired float glass (this heading) is produced by the float process and has the superior surface flatness and optical clarity associated with that method, while wired cast-and-rolled glass (a separate heading) is made by passing molten glass between rollers and typically has a less uniform surface. The production method and resulting surface quality are the key classification criteria.