When looking to buy a glass picture frame, you will be presented with a range of options for the type of glazing. Gone are the days that picture frames were made with simple glass. Instead, there are variety of different materials and glazing that have their own advantages and disadvantages. Below you will find these options outlined and the circumstances in which you should choose one over another.
Simple Glass
This is the most popular type of glazing for picture frames and is usually the cheapest. As with any glass produce, it tends to be strong and scratch resistant. However, it can be quiet heavy and is breakable if you happen to drop the frame. Glass also doesn’t filter large amounts of UV rays and this is important because high UV can fade the colors contained in artwork and photographs. Therefore, you should not leave glass picture frames in strong, direct sunlight for long periods during the day.
Non-Glare Glass
This type of glass prevents the glare and reflection that can occur when a frame is placed in front of a window or other entry for sunlight. This ensures that you don’t need to worry about the glare preventing you from seeing the picture. However, it still doesn’t provide a large amount of UV protection and the way that non-glare glass is made means that it can sometimes make the picture behind it appear fuzzy. Non-glare glass is more costly than simple glass, but still tends to be reasonably affordable.
Acrylic (“Plexiglass”)
Also known as Plexiglass, acrylic glass falls just behind simple glass in the popularity stakes for glass picture frames. Its popularity is due a number of reasons including that fact that it is light, shatterproof, has a high UV protection and can be bought in non-glare form. However, acrylic can develop scratches easily and is more expensive than simple glass. You should clean acrylic with a specific type of cleaner and a soft cloth. Otherwise you may scratch the surface or make it foggy.
Conservation Glazed Glass
Conservation glazing prevents 97% of UV rays from reaching the behind it. It is typically used for expensive or antique pictures that require this type of protection. The glazing can be used on glass or clear acrylic material and will cost a significant amount of money. However, if your artwork or photograph is valuable then this glazing is a must.
Museum Glass
Museum glass is designed to be virtually invisible to ensure that you can see the artwork or picture without being distraction by glare, tints or smudges. It provides the best UV protection and is best reserved for the most expensive pictures.