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S. Sherman

Glass Options in Custom Picture Framing?

Updated: Dec 13, 2021


There are many kinds of glass. Picture framers use flat glass, which is a classification of sheet, plate, or float glass. Sheet glass is the kind used for houses. When you say “plate” or “float” glass they mean the same thing. Almost all the flat glass produced today is called float glass.


The reason picture framers don’t use window graded glass is because it allows for a certain number of flaws and these flaws are very visible in picture framing.


As a picture framer we purchase picture framing glass in large, boxed quantities and keep them available for you in stock in our warehouse.


Here are the different types of glass that we offer-


Clear Glass


Clear glass or Regular glass is created to have a limited number of flaws, scratches, or blisters. It is not intended to protect from UV rays or to prevent glare. It is a good quality picture framing grade glass.


Non-Glare Glass


Non-glare glass (also referred to as non-reflective) is etched so that the surface doesn’t reflect the light like normal glass. The etching is done by dipping clear glass into an acidic solution and it creates a microscopic pattern. The acid is removed, and the glass is then safe to use for art.


UV Protecting Glass


Ultraviolet rays are incredibly damaging to artwork. With a UV protecting glass you can see 97%-99% UV protection. This glass can also be referred to by some as Conservation Glass.


Most UV protecting glasses have a surface coating that provides the protection from UV rays, but you must still be aware of where you are hanging your artwork. We never recommend hanging your artwork in direct sunlight. To help block harmful UV rays we also recommend putting UV tinted sheets on your external windows.


Museum Glass


Museum Glass has an anti-reflective coating as well as UV protection. If you are looking for the best clarity for your artwork, then this is the right glass. It literally looks like nothing is there.

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