By choosing a custom frame shop, you will have more options at your fingertips in terms of choosing the glazing that works best for your art, photos & memorabilia. The four main glazing options for you to choose from are Glass, Laminated Glass, Plexi and Conservation Glazing [Museum Glass].
Types of Glazing
Below we will outline a quick reference guide to help you select the appropriate glazing option for your project.
GLASS Glazing Option
Standard Glass
- The most classic framing glazing option
- Best option for budget framing
- Most “fault tolerant” in terms of cleaning solutions (can accept most cleansers)
- Limited UV Protection
- One of the most fragile options, broken glass could equate to damaged art
- Highly reflective surface
Upgrade to Laminated Glass:
- When broken, all pieces will stay together due to the lamination. Art will be safe from accidents.
- Laminated glass is the heaviest option out of all of the glazings
- Limited UV Protection
- Not a great option for large pieces that do not have special delivery/travel accommodations(will also need a special installation process)
- This option does not typically allow for upgrades to anti-reflective or conservation
Upgrade to Anti-Reflective (AR) Glass Glazing:
- No ripple or “orange peel” effect on surface, glass coating is engineered for performance
- Limited UV Protection
Upgrade to Conservation Glass Glazing:
- 99% UV Ray Resistant, protects your art and artifacts from harmful light that may fade or discolor
- Glass still reflective in nature
Upgrade to Museum Glass Glazing:
- Possesses both Conservation and Anti-Reflective qualities
- Top of the line option, often used to preserve Museum art and artifacts
- Most expensive glass option
PLEXI Glazing Option:
Plexi-Glass:
- Will not break or shatter if dropped, keeping your artwork safe
- Lightest of all of the glazing options, when shipping your project is necessary, this is the most economical option
- Plexi is easiest to hang and requires the least specialty hardware
- Scratches easier than standard glass options
- When cleaning, must use special solutions
Upgrade to Anti-Reflective Plexi:
- No ripple or “orange peel” effect on surface, plexi coating is engineered for performance
- Limited UV Protection
Upgrade to Conservation Plexi:
- 99% UV Ray Resistant, protects your art and artifacts from harmful light that may fade or discolor
- Plexi still reflective in nature
Upgrade to Museum Plexi:
- Possesses both Conservation and Anti-Reflective (AR) qualities
- Top of the line option, often used to preserve Museum art and artifacts
- More indestructible than Museum Glass
- More expensive than Museum Glass, making it the most expensive glazing option for framing
Keep in mind, what you’re framing, the mat choice and the frame choice should also play a part in selecting your glazing. There should also always be apt space in between the glazing and your art or memorabilia. Recommendations can be made based on item type. At Peterson Picture Co., we’ve framed almost everything and would be happy to guide you on your framing journey! Start the conversation by letting us know a little about your framing needs here.
