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05/11/2005 10:43:27 PM · #1 |
I have done some more in-depth research on glass used for framing artwork and here are some of the results. These glass types are all manufactured by Tru-Vue. I chose to look at this brand because it's what we sell where I work and I have access to the dealer costs on these types of glass.
Tru-Vue Premium Clear Glass:
This is 'basic' framing glass. It has no special properties and no extra levels of protection. It is NOT a non-glare glass. The ratings on this glass are as follows:
Light Transmission: 90% (how much light passes through the glass to your artwork)
Light Reflection: 8% (how much light is reflected by the glass)
UV Blocking: 45% (how much UV light is filtered by the glass)
Framing shops may mark up glass prices in different ways. I would assume that most shops price their glass based on having to cut, clean, and install it in a frame, as well as a reasonable profit margin. You should expect to pay approximately $15-20 per 32x40" sheet of this glass. You can calculate individual sizes smaller than that based on this general price.
Tru-Vue Conservation Clear Glass:
This is basic UV filtering glass. It has no special properties other than a very high level of UV filtering. This glass has a UV coating on one side (the side that is placed INSIDE the frame). It is difficult to handle because the UV coating will scratch VERY easily. It requires special handling during installation to prevent scratching.
Light Transmission: 89%
Light Reflection: 8%
UV Filtering: 97%
You should expect to pay approximately $35-40 per 32x40" sheet.
Tru-Vue Reflection Control Glass:
This is a basic non-glare glass. It has no special properties other than reflection control. It is easy to handle and is very resistant to scratching. It is etched on one side (the outside of the frame).
Light Transmission: 90%
Light Reflection: 8%
UV Filtering: 45%
You should expect to pay approximately $35-40 per 32x40" sheet.
Tru-Vue Conservation Reflection Control Glass:
This glass has non-glare and UV filtering properties. It is etched on one side (outside) and UV coated on the inside. It has the same sensitivity to scratching as the regular Conservation Clear glass and requires the same care in handling.
Light Transmission: 90%
Light Reflection: 8%
UV Filtering: 97%
You should expect to pay approximately $60-70 per 32x40" sheet.
Tru-Vue Reflection Free Glass:
This glass has a beautiful non-glare property and better than average UV filtering. It is NOT etched like the regular reflection control glass. It has a clear coating instead. This glass allows a lot more light to pass through to your artwork and only creates very minor contrast differences in the artwork.
Light Transmission: 96%
Light Reflection: 1%
UV Filtering: 78%
You should expect to pay approximately $80-90 per 32x40" sheet.
Tru-Vue Museum Grade Glass:
Museum grade glass offers the best possible ratings in all the important properties. This glass is considered top of the line and it is the most expensive.
Light Transmission: 96%
Light Reflection: 1%
UV Filtering: 97%
You should expect to pay approximately $200 per 32x40" sheet.
My recommendations for buying glass:
The standard conservation clear (97% UV blocking with no reflection control) is the least expensive glass you should buy. Blocking UV light is the key to keeping your artwork looking good for a long time. Standard glass is OK for a lot of applications, and the cost is about half of the conservation clear, but the cost is not that significant overall in a framing project. Keep in mind that these prices are based on a 32x40" sheet of glass. Smaller cuts should cost less. Some framing shops may charge you a little more when you cut a piece of glass because waste will be created.
As far as museum grade glass is concerned (the most expensive glass available), I have a very difficult time recommending it because of the price. The Tru-Vue Reflection Free Glass (PN: GT-AR3240) has a high enough UV rating and the exact same properties otherwise.
If you are hanging your work in an environment where it will be subjected to direct sunlight and/or prolonged exposure to flourescent lighting, you should seriously consider the Tru-Vue Conservation Reflection Control or the standard Conservation Clear glass. The additional benefit you would receive from the museum grade glass is only in the non-glare and light transmission properties. These elements are only significantly important if your audience is going to be scrutinizing your work (as in a museum or art gallery/show). If the work is solely for decoration, museum grade glass is overkill. The casual viewer of your artwork will appreciate any of the reflection control surfaces.
Just some food for thought...
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05/11/2005 11:37:00 PM · #2 |
nice. i am building a house of glass, from which i will cast many stones. which option has highest %age stone protection?
(Seriously, that is some good intel)
Message edited by author 2005-05-11 23:37:18. |
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05/11/2005 11:39:49 PM · #3 |
Lol dwoolridge, however the house of glass has already been built:
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05/12/2005 12:20:21 PM · #4 |
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05/12/2005 12:28:18 PM · #5 |
Thanks, John. I've recently visited a friend's home and saw one of the paintings (aquarell, not photography) on his wall with a glass like one of those you describe. I took notice immediately because that was the only one on the wall that did not have reflection off the light coming through the windows... Makes a huge difference.
I have some graphics that I wanted to change the glass on... I forgot about the option since and now I'm being reminded. I'll look into the options here, while trying not to exceed the price of the artwork itself:-) |
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05/12/2005 04:11:39 PM · #6 |
Proper framing usually DOES exceed the price/value of the artwork :)
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05/12/2005 06:25:30 PM · #7 |
Originally posted by jmsetzler:
Proper framing usually DOES exceed the price/value of the artwork :) |
I'm looking to buy framing equipment. Where did all that information on the mat cutters and go? I'm happy with the frames I have had done for me but I would still like to do it myself.
Tim |
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05/12/2005 07:09:55 PM · #8 |
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05/12/2005 07:18:07 PM · #9 |
John,
Thank you for taking the time to share your findings with all of us. That is what I like most about DPC is the willingness of people to share their knowledge and expertise with others. Keep up the great work!
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