Which glass should I choose?
Which glass should I choose?
Preserving Your Art: Choosing the Right Glazing for Framing
Artwork has the power to captivate, inspire, and evoke emotions. Whether you're an art collector, an artist, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of a well-framed piece, protecting your artwork is of utmost importance. One essential aspect of art preservation is selecting the right glazing for framing. The choice of glazing depends on various factors, including the value of the artwork, its sentimental significance, and your budget. In this blog post, we'll explore different types of glazing and help you make an informed decision.
Conservation Glass: Shielding Your Masterpieces from Fading
If you possess artwork that holds significant value, either monetarily or artistically, you'll want to give it the utmost protection. Conservation glass is a popular choice in custom framing, primarily due to its ability to block 99% of ultraviolet (UV) light. Ultraviolet rays are notorious for causing fading and deterioration in artwork over time. By opting for conservation glass, you can shield your valuable pieces from the harmful effects of UV light.
Conservation glass comes in several options, each offering varying levels of UV protection and reflection control. The standard choice is 99% UV protection glass, which provides excellent preservation properties. For those seeking enhanced UV filtering with reflection control, 70% UV filtering glass is a viable option. Finally, for unparalleled clarity and uncompromised protection, Museum glass is the go-to product.
Acrylic Glazing: Durability for Public Spaces and Transportation
In certain scenarios, such as displaying art in public spaces, dealing with heavy artwork, or transporting pieces over long distances, acrylic glazing might be more suitable. Acrylic, often referred to as plexiglass, offers greater durability and impact resistance compared to glass. It is less prone to breakage, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas or situations where there's a higher risk of damage.
Premium Clear Acrylic is the highest quality acrylic glazing option available. While it blocks only 45% of UV light, it provides sufficient protection for replaceable or reproducible artworks such as photos, posters, and decorative pieces. It's important to note that acrylic glazing is not as effective at controlling reflections or light transmission as glass, so it's best to keep it away from direct light sources, whether natural or artificial.
Consulting the Experts: Speaking to Framing Professionals
Choosing the right glazing for your artwork can be a daunting task, especially when you consider the multitude of factors involved. That's where the expertise of framing professionals becomes invaluable. When you visit a framing shop, take the time to chat with their knowledgeable staff about your specific requirements. They can guide you through the selection process, considering factors such as the nature of the artwork, its intended display location, and your budget.
By discussing your needs with framing experts, you'll gain insights into the best glazing options available for your particular artwork. They can provide recommendations based on their experience and knowledge, ensuring that your treasured pieces receive the protection they deserve.
Preserve Your Art with the Right Glazing
When it comes to framing artwork, selecting the appropriate glazing is crucial for preserving its beauty and longevity. Whether you opt for conservation glass to safeguard valuable pieces from UV damage or choose acrylic glazing for its durability and impact resistance, make an informed decision that aligns with your artwork's needs and your budget.
