who knew glass could make such a big difference?

UV Protection and Reflections

We love to educate our customers and glazing is definitely one many of them don't expect to have to make a decision on. 

There are a surprising number of things to consider when glazing your work. Don't worry, we are here to do most of that for you and can recommend what is best for your work. I like to let you know what your options are and why we feel a specific one is best and then let you decide based on budget and your goals for the work being framed. 

Here are the things we take into consideration: 

*Where is it going? 

*Will it be temperature controlled? 

*Will it be humid? 

*Will it be in direct sunlight or under fluorescent lighting? 

**How valuable is it to you? 

*Will there be windows and lots of things to reflect nearby?

*What is the depth of the project?

*Is it a shadow box? 

*Is it damaged and has scratches or dunches?

*How old is it and do you want to keep it in a vintage feel? 

*How big is it and how heavy are you willing to let it be? *How or who will be maintaining it? 

Considering these questions before you come in will be helpful, but most everyone knows the answers to these when we ask. 

Without at least 97% UV protection, framed pieces will age and fade more rapidly.  Indoor and outdoor UV light rays contribute to severe color loss, paper embrittlement and deterioration of framed pieces. These effects are both cumulative and irreversible. The materials that make up the piece, the paper or fabric on which the image is displayed, may become brittle. Photos may appear yellow or stained with ghostly silver deposits rising to the surface. Once damage from light has occurred, it can never be reversed. That’s why it is important to understand what you can do to minimize this type of damage before it happens.

reflections

Our customers often refer to a glass that has a foggy look to it.  We call this non-glare glass.  It softens the reflections.  It has a vintage feel about it and is ideal on projects with slight damage to the surface like scratches or dings.  We call it the forgiving glass as some of those are no longer noticeable behind it.  It is also ideal for glossy photographs that have a lot of glare on them. Reflection Control glass can actually tame that glare down a bit.  But.... it has it's limitations.  It looks beautiful when very close to the work it's covering, but the bigger the distance from it, the blurrier the image becomes.  As a result, we never recommend it for shadow boxes or items with more than double matting. The other limit, is that it can noticeably dull the colors a bit which in some cases is a deal breaker for the owner.. 

Like all things, there is a time and a place for it and when it's right, its a great option to have.  

Conservation Clear & Museum Glass

99% UV protection: We’re 100% positive you will appreciate it. With 99% UV protection, conservation glazing is engineered to keep damaging rays off precious artworks, keepsakes and collectibles, so they can remain on the wall or on display to be admired and cherished for years to come.

Choosing Your Glazing

Our Frame shop carries Tru Vue glazing, which has proven to be the top quality glazing for framing for over 45 years. There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing your glazing. Our staff can help you decide which option is the most appropriate for your item.

Conservation Clear®

Conservation Clear® looks like regular every-day glass. However, its 99% UV protection can double the life of your art. This is the best value for those who don't mind reflections but want to preserve their art.

Conservation Reflection Control®

Conservation Reflection Control® is different from the invisible finish of an anti-reflective glass product. It is chemically etched to create a matte finish that scatters light and reduces unwanted glare. It provides a softened view of the work being framed. Additionally, this product provides 99% UV protection to help protect against fading.

Museum Glass®

Nothing ruins the viewing experience of a piece of framed art like annoying reflections and glare. Anti-reflective glass eliminates distracting reflections while enhancing clarity for a viewing experience that’s unlike any other. With anti-reflective Museum Glass®, no detail is lost. Colors appear true. And you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that what’s behind the glass is protected.

Optium Museum Acrylic®

Optium Museum Acrylic® is a masterpiece of protection. This the-art acrylic glazing provides 99% UV protection to help protect against fading and static. It performs more like glass than acrylic. It is optically coated,   durable.
Optium Museum Acrylic® has a proprietary coating process using Magnetron Sputtering technology that creates a nearly invisible surface.  acrylic products, Optium Museum Acrylic is half the weight of glass and is shatter-resistant. However,  acrylic sheets, it performs like glass with its anti-static and abrasion resistant features.

We also carry a variety of acrylic glazing, which is better known as plexiglass. We can help you decide if this is the correct option for you based on the size and destination of your piece.

Currently, there is not anything that gives 100% protection from fading if the items are directly displayed in sunlight or artificial lighting. We make it our job to stay up to date and carry the best protective options available to provide you with the best service possible.