Learn About The Framemakers
Glass, in one form or another, has been in use for thousands of years. Older picture framing glass contains many inherent flaws, bubbles and waves were common. Antique glass was thicker and had a higher lead content. Which could account for some items with antique glass not fading as much as some items with more modern regular glass. The Framemakers can provide some antique glass for particular applications or glass replacement in antique frames. Including antique convex glass, sometimes called “Bubble Glass”.
In the 1930’s a double grinding technique was developed to provide an improved product. The development of float glass in the 1960’s was what truly revolutionized picture framing glass. Thinner, less flaws and lead content created a more desirable glass.
The Framemakers prefers to offer our customers only UV filtering glass. All conservation glass offers approximately 97% UV blockage. Regular framing glass only offers approximately 43% blockage. Of course anything being framed is only as good as the inks and materials used to begin with.
Conservation glass also comes with three options regarding glare. Conservation clear has no anti-glare properties. Which is fine in hallways, basements, or any area with less windows or light. Reflection control or non-glare glass defuses the glare but can also look “foggy”. It’s best used where extreme light/glare is a problem. Museum glass is a relative newcomer to picture framing. It provides a minimum amount of reflection with maximum clarity. When considering the type of glass consider the art, where it will hang, windows and lighting. Of course The Framemakers has all types on display and will help you make an educated choice.
