The Use of Glass When Framing

Depending on the materials the art uses and where it is going to be placed, the best choice of glass will change accordingly. Here are the different types of glass used in framing and their purposes;

Standard Glass. 

• About 75% of ultraviolet (UV) light passes through ordinary glass, which may make the art fade or have a photochemical reaction. This means the artwork absorbs the heat of the light, which can make the artwork change in colour, crackle or lift from the surface. 
• Standard glass is usually a cheaper alternative when framing and is popular when the artwork is made on a canvas as it usually needs less protection, due to the canvas itself containing protective ingredients.

Non- Reflective Glass

• Non-Reflect glass also known as ‘Art Glass’ is made with an optic layer which absorbs most of the light that reaches the art stopping any glare or reflection from appearing, this type of glass is usually 16x more effective than regular/reflective glass. A reflective glass will make those glare bounce back which causes the mirror-like effect we see.  
• Non reflective glass does not protect the artwork from light, it only helps on the appearance of the art itself. 

UV Glass

• Too much UV exposure from natural light or artificial source can damage works of art over time, which can sometimes be irreparable. When using UV protected glass it can block 99% of harmful rays, which is essential when working with works on paper. 
• The best way to prevent UV damage is to use glazing layer (glass) that filters out at least 92% of UV light. 
• With any special piece of artwork it being poster, watercolour, calligraphy or paintings we will always recommend UV glass to keep the work up to standard for a longer period of time. 

Museum Graded Glass.

• It is ‘Museum Glass’ because it is a museum grade product used to ensure the art is not altered by light or reflection, with the optimum image being shown. Museum Graded glass also helps protect from UV rays, much like the UV glass description shown above,  so the art does not get damaged. 
• This type of glass is generally one of the most expensive choices when framing, as the glass is made to appear invisible and provides all types of protection for the art, it is quite literally what is used in museums. 

Acrylics can be used as a cheaper alternative, when framing. Please Visit here for more Information.