Few upgrades change the feel of a bathroom as instantly as swapping a shower curtain or a dated framed door for a glass enclosure. It’s one of the first things designers point to when a bathroom needs to look bigger, brighter, and more current. But “glass shower door” isn’t a single product — there are several types of glass, several styles of enclosure, and a handful of details that separate a great installation from a leaky, short-lived one. Here’s what industry professionals want homeowners to understand before they buy.

Why Glass Has Become the Default Choice

Framed doors and vinyl curtains still exist, but glass has taken over the majority of new installations and renovations for a few practical reasons:

• Visual space: Glass doesn’t block sightlines the way a curtain or a metal-framed door does, so even a compact bathroom reads as larger.
• Light flow: Natural or fixture light passes through the enclosure instead of stopping at a wall, brightening the whole room.
• Longevity: A well-installed glass panel doesn’t warp, rust, or mildew the way tracks, curtains, and cheap frames tend to over time.
• Resale value: A glass enclosure is one of the renovation details buyers and appraisers consistently associate with an updated bathroom.

Framed, Semi-Frameless, or Frameless: Choosing an Enclosure Style

Before picking glass, it helps to know the three basic categories of enclosure:

• Framed enclosures use aluminum framing around every edge of the glass. They’re the most budget-friendly option, but the metal tracks are also where soap scum, hard water spots, and mildew tend to collect.
• Semi-frameless enclosures use a frame around the perimeter but leave the door itself unframed, offering a cleaner look at a mid-range price point.
• Frameless enclosures use minimal hardware — just hinges, clips, or brackets — and rely on thicker, tempered glass panels to stand on their own. This is the style most experts recommend when budget allows, both for its appearance and its lower long-term maintenance.

Within frameless shower glass enclosures, there are several configurations worth knowing: single-panel doors for small showers, sliding doors for larger openings, hinged and pivot doors, bifold doors for tight spaces, fixed “buttress” panels for a dramatic open look, curved glass for irregular layouts, and specialized steam-shower doors built with tighter seals to contain heat and humidity. The right configuration depends mostly on the shower’s footprint and how the door needs to swing or slide within the room.

What Glass Should Actually Be Used?

This is where a lot of homeowners get surprised — not all glass is shower-safe, and the type matters as much as the enclosure style.

Tempered Glass, Non-Negotiable

Any glass used in a shower must be tempered. Tempered glass is heat-treated to be several times stronger than standard annealed glass, and critically, if it ever does break, it shatters into small, blunt granules rather than sharp shards. This is a safety code requirement in virtually every jurisdiction, and a professional installer should never quote or install anything else for a shower application.

Thickness

Shower glass is typically available in 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ thickness. As a general guide:

• 1/4″ (6mm): Common on framed or semi-frameless doors, where the metal frame provides structural support.
• 3/8″ (10mm): A popular mid-range choice for frameless doors on smaller to medium enclosures.
• 1/2″ (12mm): The standard for larger frameless panels and doors, since the glass itself needs to carry more structural weight without a frame to support it.

Clear, Low-Iron, or Frosted

Beyond thickness, the type of glass affects both looks and privacy:

• Clear glass is the standard choice, offering maximum light transmission and an open, seamless look.
• Low-iron glass is a premium upgrade that removes the faint green tint standard glass can show along its edges, giving a truer, more neutral clarity — especially noticeable on thicker panels.
• Frosted or acid-etched glass provides privacy while still letting light through, often used as a design accent or in shared bathrooms.

Many manufacturers also offer sandblasting or acid-etching for custom patterns, and some clear panels can be finished with a protective coating that keeps the surface hydrophobic — repelling water and mineral buildup so the glass stays clear with far less scrubbing.

Installation: What Separates a Good Job from a Problem One

Because shower glass is heavy, load-bearing (in frameless setups), and installed in a wet environment, professionals emphasize a few details that DIY installs or budget contractors often miss:

1. Accurate on-site measurement. No two bathrooms — or even two walls in the same bathroom — are perfectly square. Panels should be custom-measured on site, not ordered from generic stock sizes.
2. Proper hardware selection. Frameless doors depend entirely on their hinges, clips, and brackets for support, so hardware needs to be rated for the glass weight and finished in a material (chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, etc.) that resists corrosion in a humid environment.
3. Sealing and thresholds. Without a full frame, water containment comes down to correctly placed sweeps, seals, and thresholds. This is the single most common point of failure in amateur installations — done right, a frameless door contains water just as well as a framed one.
4. Wall and floor prep. Panels are only as stable as what they’re anchored into. Tile, studs, and substrate all need to be verified before drilling or bonding hardware.

A Worthwhile Add-On: Protective Glass Coatings

Because shower glass takes constant exposure to water, soap, and mineral deposits, a protective coating is one of the most cost-effective upgrades available at install time. A hydrophobic coating keeps water from sheeting or spotting on the glass, which cuts down significantly on soap scum, hard water staining, and mildew — meaning far less scrubbing and a longer-lasting, clearer panel over time.

Getting a Professional Quote

Because every bathroom’s layout, glass needs, and hardware preferences differ, the most reliable way to get accurate pricing is a custom quote based on your specific space rather than a generic online estimate. Fabricators that specialize in shower glass will typically walk through enclosure style, glass type and thickness, and hardware finish with you before sending anyone out to measure.

For homeowners who want to see the range of configurations available — single panel, sliding, hinged, bifold, pivot, curved, and steam-shower doors, along with clear, low-iron, and frosted glass options — Bear Glass Inc.’s frameless shower door page is a useful reference point and a place to request a quote directly from a fabricator.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a frameless shower door, exactly?

It’s a shower door made from heavy-duty tempered glass that relies on minimal hardware — hinges, clips, or brackets — instead of a metal frame for support. The result is a cleaner, more open look than a traditional framed enclosure.

Is frameless glass safe if it breaks?

Yes, as long as it’s tempered, which is required by code for shower applications. Tempered glass is heat-treated so that if it does break, it crumbles into small, blunt granules rather than sharp shards.

Can a glass enclosure be custom-sized for any bathroom?

Yes. Because walls and floors are rarely perfectly square, panels should always be measured on site rather than ordered in stock sizes. Most fabricators offer custom sizing across hinged, sliding, bifold, and other configurations.

How do frameless doors prevent water from leaking out?

Without a full metal frame, water containment depends on correctly placed sweeps, seals, and thresholds installed at the base and edges of the door. Done properly, a frameless enclosure contains water just as effectively as a framed one.

Do glass shower doors actually increase home value?

Real estate professionals and appraisers commonly cite updated glass enclosures as a feature that signals a modernized bathroom, which can positively influence perceived property value compared to dated framed doors or curtains.

What glass thickness is right for my shower?

It depends on the enclosure style and panel size. 1/4″ is common for framed or semi-frameless doors where the frame adds support; 3/8″ suits smaller to medium frameless doors; 1/2″ is typical for larger frameless panels that need to be structurally self-supporting.

Do I need special hardware for a frameless door?

Yes. Since there’s no frame to bear the load, heavy-duty hinges, clips, and brackets are used, rated for the glass weight and finished in materials like chrome, brushed nickel, or matte black to resist corrosion in a humid environment.

The Bottom Line

A glass shower enclosure is a long-term fixture in the home — it needs to hold up to daily water exposure, resist wear, and stay structurally sound for years. Getting it right comes down to a few fundamentals: always tempered glass, thickness matched to the enclosure style, a glass type suited to the room’s light and privacy needs, and an installation that treats sealing and hardware as seriously as the glass itself. Get those details right, and a shower enclosure isn’t just a functional upgrade — it becomes one of the best-looking parts of the bathroom.

The post Shower Glass 101: What Every Homeowner Should Know Before Installing a Glass Enclosure appeared first on Bear Glass Blog.

Yes—glass can play a surprisingly useful role in helping New York buildings reduce conditions that contribute to rat infestations, especially when it is part of a broader building-envelope and pest-control strategy.

How Glass Can Help New York Buildings Against Rat Infestation

New York’s dense urban environment creates plenty of opportunities for rats to find food, shelter, and entry points. While glass itself does not repel rats, properly designed and installed glass systems can help close openings, improve building hygiene, and reduce accessible entry routes.

1. Sealed Glass Storefronts Reduce Entry Gaps

Older storefronts and poorly maintained commercial buildings may have gaps around doors, windows, frames, and wall interfaces.

A professionally installed glass storefront system can create a more controlled building envelope when properly sealed around the perimeter.

The key is not the glass alone—it’s the complete system:
Glass + framing + gaskets + sealants + properly sealed joints.

This can help reduce opportunities for rodents to exploit gaps around the building façade.

2. Glass Doors Can Improve Entry Control

For restaurants, retail stores, offices, and apartment buildings, modern glass entrance systems can be designed with:

• Properly fitted door frames
• Weather-resistant seals
• Door sweeps
• Automatic closing mechanisms
• Minimal gaps around the frame

This is particularly relevant in high-traffic New York buildings where doors are frequently opened and closed.

A well-maintained glass entrance can therefore be part of a broader strategy to limit unwanted pest access.

3. Basement Windows Need Special Attention

Basements are often vulnerable areas in older New York buildings.

Broken or poorly sealed basement windows can become potential access points for rodents and other pests. Replacing damaged glazing and improving the surrounding frame and seal can help make these openings more secure.

For basement-level applications, the solution may involve a combination of:

Glass + secure framing + metal grilles/screens + perimeter sealing.

The objective is to eliminate accessible gaps—not simply install a new pane of glass.

4. Glass Helps Create Easier-to-Clean Surfaces

Rats are attracted by food waste, grease, and accessible sources of food.

In restaurants, food-service facilities, and commercial spaces, smooth glass surfaces can be easier to clean than porous or damaged materials.

For example, glass partitions, doors, and certain wall applications can help create surfaces that are:

• Non-porous
• Easy to wipe down
• Resistant to absorbing food residues
• Visually easy to inspect

This doesn’t eliminate rats, but better sanitation can reduce the environmental conditions that attract them.

5. Glass Enclosures Can Separate Food-Service Areas

Restaurants and commercial kitchens can use glass partitions and doors to separate different areas of operation.

When properly designed and sealed, these systems can help establish cleaner zones and make it easier to maintain hygiene around:

• Dining areas
• Food preparation spaces
• Storage areas
• Service counters

Again, the effectiveness depends on the entire construction and maintenance system, not just the glass.

6. Damaged Glass Should Be Repaired Quickly

A cracked or broken window is more than a cosmetic problem.

Any damaged opening in a building envelope can potentially become a pathway for pests, moisture, and debris.

For New York property owners and building managers, regular inspections should look for:

Broken glass → damaged frames → missing seals → gaps → potential pest access

Replacing damaged glazing and repairing the surrounding system can help restore the building envelope.

The New York Building Connection

For NYC architects, contractors, property managers, building owners, and glass professionals, the bigger idea is this:

Pest resistance starts with a well-maintained building envelope.

Glass can contribute by helping create secure storefronts, sealed entrances, protected basement openings, hygienic interior surfaces, and controlled transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.

However, glass should be considered one component of a comprehensive rat-control strategy. Effective rodent prevention also requires attention to waste management, food storage, plumbing penetrations, masonry gaps, utility openings, doors, and professional pest-control measures.

The post Glass vs. Rats? How Better Building Envelopes Can Help Keep NYC Buildings Secure appeared first on Bear Glass Blog.

In today’s evolving architectural landscape, materials are no longer chosen just for functionality—they are selected for experience, aesthetics, and long-term value. In New York alone, we’ve seen a dramatic shift in how designers, architects, and property owners approach railing systems.

Glass railings are no longer an alternative—they are competing head-to-head with traditional steel and iron railings, and in many modern projects, they are winning.

The Traditional Standard: Steel & Iron Railings

For decades, steel and iron railings dominated architecture due to their:

• High strength and durability
• Industrial and classic appearance
• Ability to withstand heavy loads

Steel, in particular, is considered one of the strongest railing materials, capable of resisting impact and long-term wear.

However, architecture has evolved—and so have expectations.

The Rise of Glass Railings

Glass railings have emerged as a design revolution, transforming how spaces look and feel. Instead of acting as barriers, they create continuity between spaces.

Unlike traditional materials, glass:

• Maintains unobstructed views
• Allows natural light to flow freely
• Creates an open, spacious environment

This is why glass railings are now widely used in:

• Corporate offices
• Luxury hotels
• Modern homes
• Commercial complexes

Glass vs Steel/Iron: The Real Competition

1. Aesthetics & Visual Impact

Steel and iron railings often create a visual boundary. Their bars, grills, or panels can block sightlines and make spaces feel enclosed.

Glass railings, on the other hand:

• Deliver a clean, minimalist appearance
• Enhance interior and exterior design
• Make spaces appear larger and brighter

In modern architecture, visual openness is more valuable than physical separation.

2. Light & Space Optimization

Traditional railings interrupt light flow.

Glass railings:

• Allow sunlight to pass through uninterrupted
• Reduce the need for artificial lighting
• Create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection

Modern architecture prioritizes natural lighting and spatial fluidity, making glass the preferred choice.

3. Safety: Breaking the Biggest Myth

One of the biggest misconceptions is that glass is fragile.

In reality:

• Glass railings use tempered or laminated safety glass
• They are up to 5x stronger than regular glass
• If broken, they shatter into blunt, non-sharp pieces

Steel may be stronger structurally, but glass is engineered for safety with advanced technology.

4. Durability & Weather Resistance

Steel and iron railings:

• Can rust over time (if not properly treated)
• Require coatings or repainting
• May degrade in coastal or humid environments

Glass railings:

• Do not rust or corrode
• Resist weather damage
• Maintain clarity and structure for years

In long-term performance, glass offers low degradation with high visual retention.

5. Maintenance & Practicality

Steel:

• Requires occasional repainting or anti-rust treatment

Glass:

• Requires regular cleaning for a spotless look

While glass needs more cleaning, it offers a premium finish that remains visually consistent over time.

6. Design Flexibility

Glass railings offer unmatched customization:

• Frameless designs
• Frosted or etched patterns
• Tinted or colored glass
• Integration with LED lighting

Steel and iron designs, while versatile, often lean toward:

• Industrial
• Traditional
• Decorative metalwork

Glass adapts better to modern, luxury, and minimalist designs.

Glass Railings Are the Latest Architectural Trend

Modern architecture is shifting toward open-plan living and transparency. Glass railings perfectly align with this concept by eliminating visual barriers. Moreover, glass railings instantly elevate the perception of a space:

• More luxurious
• More contemporary
• More high-end

This is why they are heavily used in hotels, corporate offices, and premium residences.

Along with trendsetting designs, glass railings enhance the perception of luxury. Therefore, the use of glass railings can vividly enhance the valuation of your space and resale values. So, in many terms, glass railings are setting trends for all the positive reasons. That’s a Bear Glass point-of-view. Don’t you agree?

The post Glass Railings vs Traditional Railings: The Modern Architectural Shift appeared first on Bear Glass Blog.

Bear Glass Is A Premier Walker Distributor.  We are better able to serve our customers with 2 facilities located in both Brooklyn NY and Tinton Falls NJ.  Our Motto is “ We Do Everything In Glass And Mirror”, so we are able to service any and all your glass and mirror needs.

How to Select the Right Acid-Etched Glass

While the glass etching process is generally the same, variations in the chemistry and other process parameters will create different glass surfaces with varied visual and performance characteristics

• Light diffusion
• Privacy
• Glare reduction
• Dimensional effect
• Visual appearance
• Integration with surrounding objects
• Light transmission
• Energy efficiency

An etched surface with rugged peeks and deep valleys absorb and diffuses light, rather than transmit or reflect it, resulting in a rich white opaque appearance.  On the other hand, an etched surface with smooth rounded bumps enhances light transmission and creates a more transparent glass, characterized by reduced reflective glare and a soft translucent appearance.

The type of acid-etch surface finish selected will render a different level of opacity and smoothness as well as create varied visual effects.  It will also have an impact on the following performance ratios:

–          Gloss

–          Visible light transmission

–          Visible light reflectance

–          Shading coefficient

–          Solar direct transmission

–          Solar direct reflectance

–          U-Value

Also, bare in mind that the type of glass substrate used will impact on the above-mentioned characteristics. For example, acid-etched glass made out of low-iron glass (e.g. Starphire ultra-clear glass by PPG) will create a translucent satin appearance without the “greening effect” of ordinary clear glass.  Similarly, acid-etched blue glass made out of PPG’s blue Pacifica will create a different visual effect than one made with Pilkington’s Artic Blue.

Consequently, both the acid-etch finish and the glass substrate used will impact on the color appearance, level of opacity and performance ratios of the acid-etched glass.

In order to enhance certain characteristics of the acid-etched glass, you may also consider etching the glass on both sides.  This is a good approach for applications requiring a higher level of opacity or a similar finish and visual effect on both sides of the glass panel (e.g. partitions).

The use of acid-etched glass for exterior applications may also be appropriate.  Because acid-etching is not a coating, its resistance properties in exterior conditions are essentially equivalent to un-etched glass.  However, it is important to point out that an etched surface with rugged peeks and deep valleys could lead to higher maintenance costs because dirt particles may be more difficult to remove.  Therefore, the use of an etched surface with a lighter finish (smooth rounded bumps) is recommended in exterior applications.

As you can see, being specific about the nature of the acid-etched glass product required is very important.  Do not hesitate to share your design and performance intent to our glass professionals to ensure the acid-etched glass product selected meets your goals and objectives.

For more information on How to Select the Right Acid-Etched Glass please contact Bear Glass at:

FACTORY/ OFFICE

Address:

Bear Glass Inc.

217-44 98th Ave., Queens Village, NY – 11429
United States
 +1 (718) 832-3604
 sales@bearglass.com

If you are in New Jersey:

Bear Glass New Jersey

359 Essex Road

Tinton Falls New Jersey  07753

Phone: 732 901 2626

Fax: 732 901 2266

Email: Sales@BearGlassNJ.com

The post Bear Glass Can show You How To Select The Right Acid-Etched Glass appeared first on Bear Glass Blog.

Let’s dive a bit into history of glass. America’s glass history is no small factor. Since early 1800, glass turned into a household and everyday useable commodity in terms of decoration, transportation sectors, and more.

Before the 19th century, nearly all glass in America was hand-blown. Skilled artisans shaped molten glass using traditional techniques passed down through generations. While beautiful, this process was slow and expensive. Industrialization changed everything.

Steam-powered machinery, improved furnace designs, and new production methods allowed glass to be made faster, cheaper, and in larger quantities. Factories replaced small glasshouses, and output increased dramatically. This shift made glass more accessible to the average American household for the first time.

The Rise of American Glass Cities (1800s)

As glass production expanded, certain regions became major glassmaking hubs due to access to raw materials, fuel, and transportation routes.

Some of the most important glass-producing regions included:

• Pennsylvania, especially Pittsburgh, known for its coal resources
• Ohio, with easy access to sand and transportation
• New Jersey, which became a key center for industrial and architectural glass
• West Virginia, later famous for specialty and decorative glass

These areas attracted skilled workers, engineers, and entrepreneurs, creating communities built almost entirely around glass production. In fact, from these areas we got the vanguards of glass business, whose dreams & ideas are still inspiring and reshaping the modern glass industry.

In 1900s, the approach towards glass production took a new turn with the rise of skyscrapers across the USA. It transformed the architecture for good. Glass was no longer just an accessory—it became essential to urban design. Natural light flooded offices, improving working conditions and redefining interior spaces.

Technological Advances in Flat Glass

To meet architectural demands, the glass industry developed improved methods for producing flat glass. Innovations during this era focused on:

• Greater clarity and uniform thickness
• Larger sheet sizes
• Stronger and more reliable glass

Manufacturers refined polishing and rolling techniques, reducing distortion and imperfections. These advancements made it possible to use glass confidently in commercial and institutional buildings.

Glass in Homes and Public Buildings

Beyond commercial use, glass became a staple in residential and public architecture. Schools, libraries, hospitals, and government buildings adopted larger windows to promote healthier, brighter environments.

In homes, glass connected indoor spaces with the outdoors. Sunrooms, bay windows, and glass doors became popular, reflecting a growing desire for openness and natural light.

Between 1950 and 2000, glass began to evolve in a new direction. It was no longer valued only for function or structure—it became a medium for innovation, artistic expression, and advanced performance.

The Post-War Boom and Material Innovation

After World War II, the United States experienced rapid economic growth. New construction, suburban expansion, and technological advancement created a surge in demand for better materials.

Glass manufacturers responded by developing:

• Stronger and lighter glass
• Improved coatings and treatments
• Heat-resistant and impact-resistant glass

The Rise of Tempered and Laminated Glass

Safety and durability became top priorities in modern design. This led to widespread adoption of tempered and laminated glass, which offered greater strength and safer breakage patterns.

These innovations made glass suitable for:

• High-traffic commercial spaces
• Automotive windshields
• Glass doors and partitions
• Public infrastructure

Artistic Glass and the Studio Glass Movement

While industry focused on performance, artists were redefining what glass could be creatively. The Studio Glass Movement, which began in the 1960s, encouraged artists to work with glass in small studios rather than large factories.

This movement:

• Treated glass as a fine art medium
• Blended craftsmanship with experimentation
• Brought glass into galleries and museums

During this period, decorative glass saw a major resurgence. Architects and designers began using:

• Etched glass
• Frosted and patterned glass
• Tinted and colored glass

These materials allowed buildings to balance privacy with light, blending function and aesthetics. Specialty glass became a signature feature in offices, hotels, restaurants, and luxury homes.

Since the late 20th century, glass had become a material of choice for expressing identity—whether through bold architectural statements or artistic installations. It could be transparent or dramatic, subtle or bold.

Today, American glassmaking stands at the intersection of engineering, design, and creativity, ready for the upcoming challenges which are reshaping the urban art and architecture, alongside science, education, researches, as well as rides.

The post Innovation, Art, and Specialty Glass in America appeared first on Bear Glass Blog.

Stop waiting around and give us a call for all your acid etched glass needs!

Bear Glass acid-etched glass products offer a wealth of opportunities to architects, interior designers and decorators. The consistent quality, durability and rich look of Textures products is unmatched.  Bear Glass creates a translucent satin appearance which obscures view while maintaining a high level of light transmittance.

Acid-etched Glass Advantages

• Consistent finish and appearance
• Maintenance free
• More mar-resistant than sandblasted glass
• Does not peel or get discolored like films
• Does not scratch off like coatings

Acid Etched Glass

Bear Glass is supplying high quality acid etched glass(also called frosted glass or fingerprint free glass ) in one side or both sides.

We also supply kinds of acid etched obscured glass in some patterns.  Click here

For decoration requirement, clear/tinted float glass , obscured glass, mirror all can be acid-etched on the surface.
We also supply deep acid etched glass in different designs.

If you are an architect, a designer, glass fabricator, project manager or any other glass professional, Bear Glass can help you write your acid-etched glass and mirror specifications.

CONTACT US TODAY FOR  ALL YOUR GLASS NEEDS!!!

Contact us

Address:
217-44 98TH AVE QUEENS VILLAGE, NY 11429
Phone:  +1 718 832 3604

Email:info@bearglass.com
sales@bearglass.com

The post CONSIDER BEAR GLASS FOR ALL YOUR ACID ETCHED GLASS NEEDS!!! appeared first on Bear Glass Blog.

Mirrorpane was created for unobtrusive observation in interior applications and perfect for multiple-image “infinity” mirror effects, or to camouflage office areas, wet bars and entertainment centers.

Mirrorpane is ideal for surveillance and security in commercial settings and correctional institutions, hospital observation and worker monitoring where discreet observation is required, Bear Glass.  Mirrorpane looks like a mirror in a well-illuminated room but works like an ordinary tinted window from the other side.

Mirrorpane is ideal for surveillance, security and administrative applications, Bear Glass One way Mirror Glass creates a visual barrier between subjects and their observers, performing like an ordinary mirror on one

side and a tinted window on the other.

Mirrorpane Product Features

HIGH REFLECTIVITY AND LIGHT TRANSMITTANCE allow privacy with crisp, unobtrusive vision into the observed room.

DURABLE, PYROLYTICALLY DEPOSITED COATING offers significantly better scratch and abrasion resistance than vacuum-coated products. The mirrorpane is created by applying a reflective silver-colored coating on 1/4 Grey Tinted Glass.

POST-HEAT-TREATABLE for maximum strength, it can be handled, cut, insulated, laminated and tempered.

EXCELLENT AVAILABILITY for ease of inventory and replenishment. The pyrolytic coating allows for easy handling, fabrication, and storage.

AVAILABLE IN 1/4″ (6mm) thickness.

IDEAL FOR SURVEILLANCE , security in commercial settings, correctional institutions and child care businesses, hospital observation, worker monitoring and distinctive interior designs.

Design Considerations

ORIENTATION:

Install mirrorpane with the reflective surface facing the brightly lit subject-side. Due to improved properties, this glass allows a wall to be completely glazed from floor to ceiling when there is no lighting on the viewing side.

TYPE OF LIGHTING:

Subject-side lighting should be bright and evenly distributed over all walls and furnishings, but should not shine directly onto the transparent mirror. Observer-side lighting should be dim with no open light sources. Opaque lamp shades are recommended for best results.

BACKGROUND COLORS:

Subject-side should be bright and light in color and shade to create a bright reflected image. Observer- side décor should be subdued, non-reflective, dark and uniform.

DISTANCES AND LIGHT LEVELS:

On the observer-side, keep people, objects and light sources at a distance from the transparent mirror area. An 8:1 light ratio is recommended, with the subject-side brightly lit.

CLEANING:

Use standard glass cleaners or mild detergents. Do not use abrasives, opaque liquid cleaners, razor blades or acid-based cleaners.

We ship   Mirrorpane Glass world wide.

For more information, please contact us at:

The post A Touch Of Class With Our Mirrorpane !!! appeared first on Bear Glass Blog.

Acid etched glass has been treated with acid to produce a matte surface finish on one, or both, of the surfaces of the glass. Because the surface of the glass has been chemically-created, the finish is extremely durable, and can not be washed or scratched off. Often, this is referred to as “fingerprint proof” or “smudge proof” glass because of its durability withstand oils, moisture, and humidity while still retaining the frosted appearance.

When people mention “acid etched glass” they can mean a WIDE variety of things. There are acid etched products which we offer, sandblasted, laser etched, and even printing or decorative films that look like etching.

Acid Etched glass panels are mainly used for:

• door
• Window
• partition wall
• Glass railing
• Glass flooring
• Glass Staircase
• Glass furniture and much more!

Available Finishes of Acid Etched Glass

Basically, the term “etched glass”  or “frosted glass” is a generic term used as a catch-all for any of the above methods which produce a glass that will diffuse transmitted light. But it’s important to know the limitations and effects for each of these methods are different.

Different levels of opacity can be achieved by treating one or both sides of the glass, as well as the “depth” of the etching.  Options of patterns, tints, and limitless color are all possible. This product can be back-painted as well, for a colorful matte finish. which of course, is what Bear Glass Color Glass can do in the creation of Bear Glass Acid etched Matte Color Glass.

A few of the advantages for the use of Acid Etched Glass:

1. Permanent finish that will never degrade or fade over time.
2. The matte finish reduces glare, allowing for the practicality of glass, even in high-glare interiors.
3. Fingerprints won’t show like on other glossy materials.
4. Moisture or natural oils won’t remove the finish.
5. Extremely durable – can withstand vigorous cleaning. Nearly anything can be cleaned off by using a Magic Eraser.
6. Can be tempered – allowing for use in shower enclosures, railings, and furniture.
7. Can also be back-painted, silvered,…or both,…for beautiful additional effects.

People LOVE the soft, ethereal look of acid etched glass. But they wrongly think it’s hard to care for. You can’t get it wet, you can’t get oils on it, and you can’t clean the pitted surface. However, acid etched glass has the ability to do ALL those things and still come clean. All of these gorgeous glass installations were done using acid etched glass, which we can back-paint any custom color. Contact us, to learn more about any of these products.

Bear Glass is the best fabricator of the interior decorative glass products, including a wide variety of glass and mirror. Bear Glass provides high quality fabricated glass for contracting glaziers, glass distributors, installers, and the architecture design community.

The post Benefits of Acid Etched Glass In Interiors in NY, NJ, Brooklyn appeared first on Bear Glass Blog.

In the world of sandblasting there are two techniques, etching and carving. Etching is when abrasive is blasted at the glass lightly to give the glass a frosty appearance. Depending on the speed and angle the abrasive is being applied, different shades can be created, allowing the glass to be a true work of art. Carving on the other hand is when steadily sandblasting is done to the surface of a glass using stencil which protects the areas you don’t want to be carved out. Sandblasting as a technique for carving can be much nuanced, with differing depths and angles of cuts creating an array of lighting effects that may be quite beautiful.

Common to residential homes, there is a need for privacy in areas of the front entry or over a tub in the bathroom. These are areas where an elegant or sophisticated design can lend to the privacy desired along with adding beauty and character to a home. Etched glass designs add a great look to recreation areas and bathroom mirrors. Home bar mirrors with your own personal name for your get away create an interesting and elegant look for entertaining or personal enjoyment. Etched glass table tops have enhanced many dining rooms with sandblasted and carved designs.

Many of our clients prefer to have attractive etched glass signs pin mounted right above their reception desks which can also be lighted or colored with your corporate colors. These signs can be very versatile in function for the corporate office or small office environment. From company name recognition to adding an element of design, Bear Glass can provide the correct solution for your needs!

In many commercial environments, the need for name recognition is vitally important. By having your corporate logo/identity sandblasted onto the front entry doors or on a glass curtain wall in a conference room, you are establishing your name with your clients and showing a sense of pride in your company. Also, it is very helpful for clients in locating your office space in larger office buildings . The same is applicable for commercial interior decoration as well, along with home-office spaces. You must have observed the practical use of etched glass products in pubs, restaurants or bars, where privacy plays a big role in space decoration.

Glass etching on an entrance to a home or office creates a dramatic first impression like no other architectural material can. Etched glass entries and etched glass doors are elegant and quite sophisticated, modern yet can be very classic. Even the best etched glass design is only as good as the technique used and its execution. Bear Glass can deliver on both quality and timeliness which is why leading architects and contractors rely on Bear Glass to make their glass etching vision a reality. It does not matter if the frosted glass design or frosted film pattern is in an office, restaurant, laboratory or an airplane, Bear Glass has the capability of performing this work on the job site, without the mess and dust of conventional systems, enabling any glass to be sandblasted anywhere that it may be located.

For more information, please contact us. We look forward to working with you!

FACTORY/OFFICE

Address:
Bear Glass Inc.
217-44 98th Ave., Queens Village, NY – 11429
United States
 +1 (718) 832-3604
 sales@bearglass.com

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Glass in restaurant:

Glass is easy to maintain and has limitless in its customization options, for size, shape, color, and function. So it’s no wonder that glass can also add useful features to the interior of a restaurant while adding to the interior design and branding plan. Glass comes in so many varieties: tinted, back painted, mirrored, acid etched, and even clear that you’re sure to find a type that can enhance the interior for any restaurant or food service environment. Glass is a great surfacing material to use in restaurant interiors. With a high-end look that is easy to maintain and limitless in its customization options, glass can also add useful features to the interior of a restaurant while adding function, reduced maintenance and good looks that enhance any restaurant or food service environment.
Below are 10 ways to whet your appetite to using glass in restaurant designs:

1) Specials Boards:

Being able to erase dry erase, wet erase and chalk markers from the surface makes glass the perfect message board for writing specials, messages, and other information for patrons. The one shown above was made out of tinted gray glass for a semi-translucent effect. It’s hung using stand-offs with the glass fabricated with holes to accommodate the hardware.

2) Table Toppers:

This is one of the most practical uses of glass in restaurants, …as a table topper to protect the wood or metal table underneath. A thin, tempered piece of glass can be backpainted any color so that it enhances the restaurants branded color scheme as linens would, but doesn’t need to be replaced after each patron. Spills, drips and splatters can be easily cleaned up and it will look good as new for the next customer. We’ve also seen clear glass table toppers used over fine linens, and that’s a good way to prevent having to do a ton of laundry.

3) Prep Area Feature Wall:

A wall of color glass in a prep area draws attention to where all the action happens, and provides a surface that is easy to clean at the end of the night. With the ability to be any custom color, it can create a beautiful way to draw customers in.

4) Bar Tops:

A bar top using acid etched glass can create sultry back-lit bars that can enhance a mood in the restaurant or lounge. Easy to keep clean, and with a surface that won’t wash off, acid etched glass also resists finger prints so servers can focus on simply serving the customer.

5) Glassware Walls:

Like the bar tops, when acid etched glass illuminate from behind, it can create a mood that refresh client and enhances the environment. The way the light plays, not only through the acid etched glass, but through the glassware and colored liquids in bottles creates a cool vibe that can enhance the brand.

But there’s so many more ways to use glass in restaurant and food service design, tomorrow we’ll share a few more! What are your favorite ways you’ve used glass in restaurant interiors? Let us know in the comments below.

6) Buffet Areas:

No one wants to be sent to the corner to eat. A mirror along the darker corners of a space can make it instantly feel brighter and more open. Reflecting light and views back into the room will make patrons feel more relaxed and amiable.

7) Host Desk Wrap:

This is one of the first things people really see in any restaurant, the host/hostess reception desk. This is a perfect opportunity to get a pop of color and set the mood for the design. The added bonus of being very easy to clean of fingerprints and anxious consumers’ touches is just a bonus.

8) Feature Wall or Art:

Great that unique type of artwork or brand experience with glass. You can also choose to back paint logos or designs in custom colors or even in mirror!

9) Bar Tops:

Cool walls in back painted glass, mirror, or back-painted glass add a bold graphic element to the space while being extremely easy to maintain and clean. There are number of ways to create a statement look for the space.

10) Bath Room Mirrors:

Sure every bathroom needs a mirror, but why hang an off-the-shelf framed mirror, when you can use mirror to create something that enhances the brand of the restaurant. Here, a lighting element is behind the floor to ceiling vanity mirror that expands the space, adds additional function and looks, really cool.

New construction or renovation, a restaurant is about its image and feel as much as the food it serves. Allow glass in all its forms to help bring your restaurant design to life in a brilliant way. For your glass and mirror need, Click here.

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