Etched Glass Panels

Etched Glass Panels

Have you thought about purchasing an etched glass window and decided not to because of a concern with replacing the window sash if it becomes broken? Now there is the technology to create high resolution, custom laser etched design in glass blocks. These blocks have standard 3/8" faces which are very difficult to break - and even if one block were to break, it can be replaced without having to replace the entire window.

Here are 5 steps to consider when placing a laser etched glass block window order:

Step 1 - Where are you going to use this window - Block windows can be used in residential or commercial applications. For homes the most common uses are bathroom, kitchen, basement, family or living room windows. The etching process can be applied to either see through (Vue and Clear patterns) or moderately distorted (Decora or Wave patterns) blocks. These blocks come in a variety of sizes to fit any opening and are also available in custom colors.

For architectural, commercial and institutional projects etched glass can be used for exterior or interior window openings and signs. Churches have found these products to offer an excellent alternative to stained glass since the glass blocks can be colored and custom etched. Hospitals are beginning to use these blocks to create directional signs that are functional, structurally strong, and can be custom designed to fit their specific need.

Step 2 - Measure the masonry or rough openings - Most of your window openings will either be in frame or masonry construction. For masonry openings measure from the top of the sill on the outside to the bottom of the header plate that is above the window frame. In most masonry openings the existing window frame will be removed (by cutting, sawing, or prying the frame out) in the installation process.

For framed rough openings measure the space inside of the frame after the old window sashes would be removed. For these applications the new window will generally be set inside of the existing frame.

For new construction you should be able to specify the opening to your contractor.

Step 3 - Determine if a frameless or vinyl framed etched glass window will work best

o Masonry openings in remodeling- It's usually most cost effective and easier to mortar a block window panel inside masonry openings. The frameless window design will tend to work best since the mortar will bond better with the block than a vinyl frame. You will find masonry openings most frequently in basement window and commercial replacement window projects.

o Frame openings in remodeling - For upper floor frame or stucco construction openings where you can create an opening the vinyl framed window is preferred. This window installs like a traditional vinyl window (it is available both with and without nailing fins for an easy installation) and is more comfortable for most contractors and homeowners. If you cannot size the opening usually the frameless windows will work best. For these projects you can use a spray foam insulation around the block window panel, trim the opening out with wood, and use aluminum or PVC coil stock over the wood trim.

Step 4 - Determine what glass block size, color and pattern will work best - Most block patterns are available in 2" increments with the most common sizes being 4" x 8", 6" x 6", 6" x 8" and 8" x 8". When laser etching the blocks the see- through and moderately wavy patterns tend to show the etched artwork most prominently.

The window sizes can also be varied by choosing either mortar or silicone joints to create an optimal fit. The blocks can be etched individually or as part of a mural assembly. For the murals it is recommended to use the silicone jointing process because the blocks are closer together than with mortar jointing. If you have a question about the right sized window and blocks for your project contact a block window specialist. If you want to add even more style dichroic (this is a mirrored multi-color process) and colored glass blocks can be used.

Step 5 - Order a stock pattern or supply your custom image for a one of kind design - Blocks can be laser etched with either stock patterns or virtually any custom image. There are several series of patterns to choose from including:

o Pets, Hobbies & Holiday Series

o Contemporary Series

o Traditional Series

o Earth Series

The stock patterns can be etched into one block or a series of blocks as a mural.

If you'd like a custom image supply a pdf, jpeg, tif or similar type of file and your etched glass window can be turned into a custom piece of artwork. Now that you're equipped with these 5 steps you're ready to order your own laser etched glass block window.

Glass Fibre

Glass Fibre

This is a process in which fibreglass if formed into shapes, the mould process begins with an object known as a buck or sometimes as a plug, this plug or buck is an exact representation of the item that is about to be made, a number of materials can be used for this with foam being the most common.

The process of making the buck begins and when finished a mould release agent is sprayed over it; this will allow the mould itself to separate away from the plug when the whole process is completed. The release agent is a special type of PVA or wax. Wax tends to be the preferred choice as PVA (Polyvinyl alcohol) effects the surface finish of the mould in a negative way.

After the release agent has been applied to the plug another item is used to coat the mould; Gelcoat, this is applied with a spray gun, roller or a brush, this gives the surface of the mould a more durable, harder finish. Gelcoat is a pigmented resin.

The next step is where the Glass Fibre is applied; it is called the laying up process. A mat fibreglass layer is applied and then coated with a resin. The air bubbles are removed by using a special roller, these bubbles must be removed and if they are left in the strength of the product would be significantly reduced.

The final layers of fibreglass must be applied, when they have it will be left alone allowing the resin to set and cure. The mould is then removed from the buck and your Glass Fibre Moulding is complete.

Decorative Glass Doors

Decorative Glass Doors

If you're considering remodeling, or looking at the interior designs of a new home, you'll certainly be looking at painting the walls different colors and adding different types of carpeting, tile, or wood floors. However, have you ever considered what you might want for the doors? Sure, there are the classic light, white wooden doors, or the very heavy carved medieval-looking wood doors; however, heavily carved old-fashioned doors tend to be stained in darker colors, and create a rather gloomy atmosphere in your home. For a more modern, contemporary design, you might want to consider decorative glass doors instead.

Why use decorative glass doors? Well, there are plenty of reasons for that! One major advantage that a decorative glass door has over a dark, old, medieval wooden door is the ability to allow light from room to room. The transfer of so much daylight throughout the house will create an overall lighter atmosphere, allowing more daylight into your home and creating a warmer effect. Recently, studies have shown that exposure to plenty of daylight inside the home is good for your health because it wards off depression and also increases your productivity.

Decorative glass doors come in many shapes, sizes, and designs. For a more contemporary look, you may just simply want to consider an elegant glass door with gold or silver metallic touches on the edges; clear glass will allow the door to let in the most light. These can be effective for the door leading to your patio or deck, so that you get a nice, clear view of the backyard. A decorative glass door also may be used for office and room doors. However, when you are considering doors for the bathroom, you may want to use a frosted glass door, because frosted glass doors are more translucent and provide much more privacy than a clear glass door. This same idea goes for the shower; while shower curtains might suffice, having a glass door for your shower will allow more light in so that you no longer have to stand in the dark shower-you can enjoy the warm water in the light! Frosted glass can come in many different variations. There is frosted textured glass that isn't quite transparent but not that translucent either, and simply has wavy designs all over the glass so that it's difficult to see the clear image on the other side. There's also sandblasted frosted glass, which creates sort of a grayish, almost plastic-like sheen over the glass to create translucency.

Another type of decorative glass door is the stained glass door. Stained glass doors can be used as front doors because they tend to be a bit fancier, though I would not recommend you use bright contrasting colors on your stained glass door, as that may seem a bit over-bright and difficult to match to your exterior house design. Many homeowners have also used stained decorative glass doors as their cabinet doors, and these create beautiful effects for your kitchen area, as it allows light to travel into and light up all your cabinets-and thus, your entire room.

Tempered Glass

Tempered Glass

Automobile glass uses tempered glass all the way around the vehicle - except, of course, the windshield which is laminated glass. The primary use of this type of glass is for situations when stronger glass is more preferable. It is also ideal for any situation that calls for extra safety in case it should crack or break (this type of glass will shatter into thousands of tiny pieces instead of large, dangerous shards of glass).

Experts say that tempered glass is at least five times stronger than regular glass. This is because it has been through a controlled heating process during its production. The simple explanation of how this process works is that the glass is placed into a tempering oven. The oven is set to an extreme heat. The glass heats up and then is quickly removed and cooled down in quick fashion. The rapid cooling produces a hard outer layer of glass.

There are many nick names for this type of glass. The most common term is Tempered Glass. Most professionals will use the phrase "tempered glass" when referring to this type of glass. However, any of these nick names will also work: heat treated glass, thermal glass, and the ever popular "safety glass".

There are two primary benefits to using tempered glass. The first, as mentioned above, is that the heating process makes it stronger and less apt to break. The heating process also makes its surface area highly resistant to scratching. The second benefit is why the glass also bears the nickname of Safety Glass. When this type of glass breaks, it will shatter into possibly thousands of tiny pieces of glass. Although these small pieces are not completely harmless, they are much less likely to hurt someone than long shards of glass (such as you would get when breaking a typical home window).

The safety benefit of this type is great for use in car windows, tub and showers, display cases (such as jewelry cases or any other type of cases that are subject to being handled by the general public), table tops, storefront display windows, and even doors (like the all-glass entrance doors used by major department stores).

Although you probably don't realize it, your computer monitor most likely uses tempered glass for its screen. Most kitchen ware uses it too, such as coffee pots or juice carafes. Does your oven have a window so you can watch things cook and bake? Guess what: that oven window is made from tempered glass. Most refrigerator shelves are also made from tempered glass. And last (but certainly not least), your everyday pair of sunglasses are made from tempered glass! If sunglasses weren't made from safety glass, can you imagine the millions of lawsuits that would be filed against sunglasses manufactures? Thankfully, most of them are made from tempered glass or even plastic; it's extremely difficult for a person to harm themselves when they break their sunglasses.

If there is a detriment to the process of tempering, it is that the glass must be fully prepared in its final form before undergoing the heating process - there can be no cuts or drilling of any kind after the tempering process has been completed. If you were to try to alter the final form in any way, the glass would more than likely shatter into a thousand pieces the moment you placed any significant pressure on it.

Frosted Glass Film

Frosted Glass Film

Frosted glass film is mostly selected by homeowners as they provide a great source of cover that adds privacy to the shower enclosure or bathroom windowpanes. With so many designs and patterns available in the market, particularly without any previous knowledge with tinting window, it would be unsuitable to decide which will suit your needs. In order to understand the criteria for using these glass films, read onto this article and get complete information about how to go with your selection.

Window glass film generally comes in 2 types. The first one is an adhesive based that requires some amount of glue for sticking to the glass area. The second type is free of adhesive in which glue is not required as it sticks directly through static force to the glass surface. However, it is better to go for films that are free of adhesive as they are easy and convenient in terms of installation. Even you can put them on your window glass, all by yourself and save some extra money on installation. Frosted glass film is also available in the above mentioned forms. This is best for your shower enclosures and restrooms as they can withstand both moisture and heat.

They are the ultimate choice for those who want their windows to be completely opaque. But a better pattern for your bathrooms and shower doors is a lite frost glass film. Although they obscure the view from outside, still it is bright inside your restrooms. It is a great way to save your electricity bills as you do not need to switch on the lights during daytime. For this reason, these are the first choice for homeowners in decorating their bathrooms and toilet areas. Indeed, they turn your bathrooms into cheerful spaces.

Glass Walls

Glass Walls

Nowadays, wall shelving is becoming increasingly popular. Wooden shelves are widely used for the grand and attractive looks. Glass Shelving is slowly taking over the market with few innovations which make glass durable and cheaper.

Some of the benefits of glass wall shelving include but not limited to: storage facility, pleasing appearance, economical and durable. Just painting and wall hangings alone are not enough to give the house an elegant look. Creative art work is very essential to make the house appealing and homely. Not only that, storage is very important for any family. Built-in shelves save floor space, can be compact and neat and very comfortable to use. Living rooms without showcase shelves are considered as incomplete these days! Bedrooms with built-in cupboards an essential requirement and also a fancy as it gives a grand look for the house.

Decorative Glass Panels

Decorative Glass Panels

Stained glass panels are a timeless expression of beauty and art that can be used to decorate your home in many ways. Artists have been creating colored glass since ancient times. Both Egyptians and Romans excelled at making colored glass objects. Evidence of stained glass windows found in churches in Britain were traced back as early as the 7th century! Originally, these windows were created to adorn the homes of kings and places of worship, but today we can bring the royalty of stained glass into our own homes.

The styles, shapes and colors of these amazing windows are vast. Some of the most popular styles are Victorian, Celtic, Floral and Art Nouveau. They can be found in many shapes including rectangles, circles, diamonds, and half moons with colors such as deep reds and greens or brilliant blues and oranges. There is no doubt that their rich colors and textures have the power to bring a room to life. They display an unwritten story or song with their glorious images. They are known for maintaining privacy without eliminating the passage of natural light. Referred to in history as "illuminated wall decorations", these windows display a unique style of art that cannot be mimicked on solid canvasses. When you decorate your home with stained glass windows you add a personal expression of beauty and show an appreciation for the crafted art.

There are many creative options when using stained glass windows to decorate your home. They provide a beautiful welcome to your front entrance when added as sidelights. They can easily transform your bathroom if hung over the bathtub or in the shower and gracefully adorn the room while adding privacy from the world outside. They will surely bring your child's imagination to life when their bedroom is turned into a theme room centered around a colorful panel featuring an animal or wilderness scene. They are a great way to dress up your kitchen if hung as a cabinet door. There are countless ways to incorporate this lovely art form into your personal home decor.

Wherever stained glass panels are used, they add ageless beauty and style, easily becoming the room's focal point. Whether they are telling a story in a century old church, adding charm to a living room window, or inviting daydreams to a child's bedroom, stained glass is captivating and always appreciated. History proves that "illuminated wall decorations" bring a refined style and craftsmanship to any home.

Interior Sliding Glass Doors

Interior Sliding Glass Doors

The findings at Pompeii's ruins are the only pieces of evidence ever discovered which prove the existence and use of the sliding glass panels concept before the modern era.The usage of the first sliding glass panels is a scientific fact that we will never know for sure because there is only one piece of evidence ever found, so that can only tells us that they were used before us, but not who invented them or where they were first used.

An interior partitions for office is the type of door which opens horizontally by sliding whereby the door is either mounted on or suspended from a track. Sliding doors are mainly of three types: pocket, Arcadia and bypass.We cannot know for sure when the sliding doors was used for the first time. Archaeological evidence leads us to believe that they were used for the first time as early as first century in the Roman Empire, due to the archaeological findings in Pompeii's ruins. A sliding door can be made using two different basic mechanisms,therefor two types of interior folding glass walls: top hung and bottom rolling systems. The most commonly used sliding door is the one with the top hung mechanism because it makes the door very easy to move.

Interior Sliding Glass Doors

Now that the summer is knocking on doors, we are eager to sit outside & enjoy fresh & warm air, which sun rays bring all along with them. Relaxing oasis after the work is either in front of home or else in backyard and this is where lots of times the homeowners want to invite as well as entertain the guests. Since, there is not any thing as the owner who doesn't care for home, we want to show the visitors best we want to offer. For this reason why the exterior sliding glass doors now have become very popular nowadays with a lot of people. There is as well other aspect, which has become more and more important: fact that many people are now working from home in place of going to the regular 9 to 5 job. This will allow the people to sit in room with patio doors open, and work straight in patio and enjoy fresh summer breeze, which get the creative juices flowing.

And this is where the patio sliding glass doors will very easily help you out. First, they are in the fashion these days. As a lot of people have one, rest want to own one. Also they actually improve ambient of room as well as house exterior. Also, there is something to the sliding glass door that brings out best in any your home.

Stained Glass Art

Stained Glass Art

Stained glass is really an expression of beauty. Art forms the basis of the stunning beauty, variety, and richness of stained glass. The patterns that you make are the result of creative artwork, unless you settle for the simplest and most prosaic patterns. These art forms are what enrich the surroundings, be they the home, office, or a public place.

The history of stained glass dates back nearly a thousand years. Breathtaking effects were produced even in the earlier pieces by combining creative artwork with technical ingenuity. The earliest applications of stained glasses were ecclesiastical. Over the years, many styles and types have been employed, often having a spiritual meaning. The art that has become an integral part of stained glass work is what generates and sustains the impact of stained glass work.

You, too, cannot escape the need to employ art in your stained glass work if you want it to be really attractive. If you are working in an environment where a number of stained glass pieces are already there, you will necessarily have to take into account the styles in these works before you decide on the artwork for your new piece; otherwise, it may not fit in well with the surroundings.

You can take the help of professional stained glass artists, who are available for advice and assistance. These professionals will help you select the right art forms, glasses, and textures to give an overall effect that could be stunning.

Stained Glass Art

Stained glass art could revolve around themes that you choose so that the resulting patterns reflect them. There are a few studios that offer traditional art forms also. Usually, these are the people who also undertake restoration work.

Various techniques are used to create variety. These include faceting, beveling, etching slumping, and overlay techniques. The art forms may fall into one of many categories including ecclesiastical, modern architectural, etc. Studios and companies specialize in creating custom art forms for you. If you are choosy and can afford it, you can make your stained glass project unique by employing custom art to reflect the theme that you want to.

Etched Glass

Etched Glass

Are you looking for wonderful glass doors for your home or office? In the past, it's always been sturdy, heavy wooden doors that have gotten all the attention; the heavier and more elaborate the wood, the fancier your house was considered to be.

But that has changed as the modern day has dawned, and simplicity and elegance were valued over old-fashioned fanciness. Now, glass doors are more popular than ever, because of their contemporary sophistication and their ability to allow light in everywhere to give a much more open, warmer feel to the atmosphere of a room, house, store, or office.

One type of glass door in particular is the etched glass door, and these etched glass doors are essentially designs created by frosting glass. Frosted glass results in a translucent glass window, which is nice because it allows more privacy without blocking the light.

Translucent frosted glass can be used for showers and office doors-or, if you want to be a bit fancier, you can put designs on the frosted glass and make it into a glass etching, which is truly beautiful and complex.

Glass etchings are usually created by sandblasting glass in several different stages in order to create different depths of translucency if you want a more three dimensional picture (it's somewhat like shading in a drawing, and the results are very beautiful).

Popularly, etched glass is usually made up of a semi-translucent picture with a clear background. This gives the glass a nice, elegant look while still maintaining transparency and allowing plenty of light through.

The alternative is to use an etched piece of glass with a frosted background, though It's recommended if your frosted background is significantly lighter than the actual etching to make the contrast more apparent.

If you have a garden, then consider using etched glass doors as the door to your garden; it will lend both an old-fashioned and modernistic style to your beautiful garden.

The actual process of etching glass is a little more complicated. There are several modern ways of frosting the glass in that way; there's sandblasting, which is slightly less accurate, and also etching via the Leptat acid process.

The sandblasted frosted glass gives a more abrasive look, while the Leptat acid process creates a crystalline surface with much texture that is deeply etched. The Leptat acid process originated in a Czechoslovakian glass exhibit that was at the World's Fair in Osaka, Japan.

Etched Glass

The Leptat etching process is often considered the more expensive and more elegant of the two, because instead of simply creating a rough sheen over the glass, the Leptat acid process creates a beautiful reflective surface that is etched and carved as if it were an intricate gem, and light reflects off the Leptat etched glass from many different angles.

If you'd like, you can create your own glass etching designs using etching cream, though these may not be as beautiful as etchings through the Leptat etching process. However, homemade glass etching can be fun and is safe as long as you take precautions not to allow the glass to cut your hands.

Glass Block Shower

Glass Block Shower

Understanding how to develop the right size shower base and shower walls with glass blocks does not need to be some mysterious process. If you'll follow the steps in this article you'll have an easy to clean, structurally sound, and unique shower you can enjoy in your home or commercial property for years to come.

Step 1) What type of glass block shower do you want?

There are basically two types of showers you can use - a shower without a door, and a shower with a door. Here's an overview of where to use both:

A) Showers without a door (walk in and roll in showers) - Door-less showers have become hot in bathroom design over the last 5 years. The two most popular types of these showers are walk in and roll in showers. The biggest advantage of walk in showers is you can eliminate the cost of the shower door and having to bend over to clean around the door's framing system. The roll in shower also does not have a door, but also eliminates the curb around the base that someone has to step over to get into the shower. This makes the shower much more accessible to those with special needs. The roll in shower base is gradually sloped in towards the drain. The biggest disadvantages of the doorless showers is their bases (or platforms) need to be sized larger.

B) Showers with a door (neo angle or corner showers) - Most showers have doors to prevent water from splashing out. A popular type of shower enclosure is a neo angle variety that is placed in the corner of a bathroom to conserve space. The advantage of a shower enclosure system with a door is that it can fit into tighter spaces (these showers can be as small as 32" or 36").

Step 2) What type of glass block shower base do you want? How do you size this base and design it out at your project site?

There are two generic types of shower bases available for block - (1) the preformed base and (2) the custom concrete base.

o The preformed base is created and sized before it is brought to the job site and can be made out of acrylic, cultured marble, or other solid surface materials. It is generally thought to cost less than a custom base, which is often true, but not always. The biggest advantage of these types of systems is they are built as one solid unit to minimize the concern about water leakage through the base. The biggest disadvantage is their size cannot be adjusted at the job site. Pittsburgh Corning makes an acrylic right or left hand entry walk in glass block shower base measuring 72" x 51", a Neo Angle shower measuring 51" x 51", a Square corner shower measuring 48" x 48" and even an acrylic shower base 60" x 32" that can be used to convert a small existing tub space into a new contemporary shower!

o The custom concrete or mud set pan base is sized at the new home, remodeling, or commercial building site. Since glass block cannot be cut like tile, you'll need to use layout cards that correspond to the size of the block units to make sure the custom base you'll make will match up with the specific block sizes for your design. Most of the layout cards are approximately 4" wide (3 7/8" is the exact size) to accommodate for the most common thickness of block used for showers. The other base thickness is 3 1/8" wide, although design options with this thickness series are more limited.

Step 3) Choosing the right sizes, shapes, and colors to make your glass block shower cool and unique.

o There are a wide selection of block sizes, patterns, shapes, colors and even artistically designed murals available for your shower. Here's a brief overview of your options:

o Sizes and thicknesses of glass blocks for showers - Glass masonry units are made is both metric and American sizes. Most of the blocks available in the United States are American sized. The American sized blocks are available in 4" x 8", 6" x 6", 6" x 8", 8" x 8", and 12" x 12". Specialty shapes can help you turn corners, make 45 degree neo angle showers, create rounded or radius walls if you're looking to make a walk in or roll in shower, or finish off the end of the shower wall with a smooth bullnose look. The blocks have nominal sizes meaning the actual size of the block units is ¼" smaller allowing for a mortar joint to adhere the block to one another (an 8" x 8" block actually measures 7 ¾" x 7 ¾"). The blocks for showers are 3" and 4" thick. Thinner block (3 1/8") are more cost effective, but shower design options are much more limited in this thickness of block.

Glass Block Shower

o Patterns, designs and colored glass blocks - Blocks come in a multitude of patterns providing different levels of privacy, style, and design options. The block are now available in standard and custom colors, tints, and artistically decorated murals to match any interior design style. Check out a comprehensive block web site to see the possibilities.

Step 4) How tall should you make your glass block shower? What do you need to do to make it structurally sound? Most block showers are built on a curb (with the exception of the roll in shower) which is 4" to 5" in height. Since many shower heads are placed 84" above the finished floor consider building your glass block wall 80" tall (this will make the size of your glass block wall + the size of your base equal to the height of your shower head). To make the glass shower walls structurally sound they should be tied into side walls with anchors every third coursing of block (usually this is every 24").

Step 5) Don't worry about any of the first 4 steps and call a glass block shower supplier and installation professional - If you really don't want to figure out what size, shape, and shower base is best call a block specialty company who offers design, supply and installation services. This type of company will usually come to your home or business (without a charge), measure your shower space, figure out the possible types of bases and showers for you, and install it with a guarantee.

Stained Glass Patterns

Stained Glass Patterns

Stained Glass Patterns Can Be Simple or Complex

Basically the beauty of a stained glass pattern is often its simplicity. When too complicated, the lead lines take away from the color. A butterfly pattern is a popular one for stained glass. Florals and lifelike intricate details are popular traditionally.

You Can Design Your Own Stained Glass Pattern Using Coloring Books.

When designing your own stained glass pattern, be sure to make extra lines. To do this simply imagine what it would be like to have a large piece of glass in the design. Remember, to cut stained glass is tedious enough without too many round edges. Add extra lines to compensate for this obstacle.

Geometric Stained Glass Patterns

As time has marched on we have shifted from the more literal stained glass patterns to adding geometric patterns. Geometric patterns are beautiful on foyer palladium windows as well as on bathroom windows over tubs. They compliment the modern decor styles often with the symmetrical beauty of the traditional styles.

Abstract Patterns

Abstract stained glass patterns can be very grand indeed. They tend to flow with great energy and connection in spite of being seeming disconnected minus the symmetry. This is for the modern day style home decor. It can be very regal as well as the other types of styles and designs.

Stained Glass Patterns

Finding a Stained Glass Pattern that is a Perfect Fit

Finding a stained glass pattern for an odd sized or shaped window can be a challenge. In this case, simply take a part of the design instead of using the entire pattern. Then you will have an original design you can be proud of.

No matter what the project, stained glass windows are a sight to see. One can hardly take their eyes off stained glass when looking through a stained glass window into daylight.

Glasses Frames

Glasses Frames

There are two aspects in buying glasses: the frame and the lenses. This article will focus on the things that you should consider when choosing glasses frames online.

The first thing you should look at is the size of frame on top of everything else. More and more online optical stores provide virtual try on system for customers to upload photo and try on glasses online, However, remember to pay attention to whether the virtual try on system has accurate sizing technology that shows the relative size of the frame to your face. This is important because majority of the frame models come only in one size. If you like the frame style but find the frame is too big or too small for you, very likely you will not find a frame of the same model that would fit you.

Secondly, consider lens limitations on certain frame styles when choosing a frame.

For semi-rimless and rimless frames, there is a limitation on the lens materials that can be used, which would affect the overall cost of the glasses. In semi-rimless frames, groove is created to hold the nylon. While the groove holds the nylon to support the lenses to the frame structure the groove also weakens the lenses making it more subject to chipping. You can use normal plastic lenses however, impact resistant lenses are highly recommended.

For rimless frames, only impact resistant lenses can be used because the lenses need to be strong enough to allow holes to be drilled through.

Examples of impact resistant lenses are polycarbonate lenses, trivex lenses and some index 1.60 lenses or even 1.67 lenses etc. Impact resistant lenses are generally more expensive than normal plastic lenses (for example C39 and index 1.56 lenses) which means higher cost in making glasses using semi-rimless and rimless frames. However full-rim frames generally do not have such limitation.

Thirdly, consider the function of the glasses you would like to achieve.

Glasses can be fitted with single vision lenses for distance only or near only. However, if you like multifocal or bifocal glasses, i.e. use the glasses for both distance and near vision, then there is a lens depth requirement on the frames. Depending on the lens design, some optical store requires the lens depth for multifocal lenses to be as large as 30mm. If you intend to purchase glasses frame at one place and have the lenses fitted at a different store, make sure you ask about the lens depth requirement beforehand.

Fourthly, the material of the frame is another thing to consider.

If you live in consistent humid weather condition or if you tend to sweat a lot on your face, or if you have hyper-allergic type of skin, metal frames may not be a good choice. Good alternatives are frames made of plastic or titanium.

To achieve the best overall aesthetic result, you should also take your prescription into consideration.

For a strong minus prescription, for example -9.0 sphere, the lenses are usually very thick on the edge even with very high density index 1.74 lenses. To minimize the edge thickness, it is recommended to choose frames with small lens width and lens depth. Semi-rimless and rimless should be avoided where possible because of the thick edge.

Etching Glass

Etching Glass

Glass etching can really be viewed as a broad craft or hobby for people. It is basically etching a design into glass from doing either of the methods such as using etching cream, using strong acid etching, using an electric engraver, or using a sandblaster.

Glass Etching Cream

The most popular method to etch glass is with etching cream. This is simple but doesn't produce the most elegant effects of your design on the glass. It works by spreading etching cream over a stencil design placed on top of your glass. Follow the steps below:

Place and secure a resist material such as contact paper over your glass piece.

Trace a black and white design to be etched on the resist material (can use carbon paper if desired).

Cut out the traced design to expose the glass areas for the etching.

With the resist material (contact paper) securely in place, spread a thick layer of glass etching cream over the exposed areas.

Wait a few minutes as advised on your cream's bottle instructions.

Wash off cream with water and peel glass etching resist off.

Share your quick and easy etched glass piece with others. Enjoy!

That is the largest mainstream method because it is quick, easy, and inexpensive to personalize ordinary glass.

Acid Etching

Using acid glass etching is similar to using etching cream but is more potent and can engrave the glass more. It is also considered dangerous due to its strong chemicals and proper training should be used.

Electric Engraver

The other way to engrave or etch your glass is with a vibrating electric engraver. You can etch with the vibrating utensil by either using your artistic talent by hand or placing a template design to follow.

Sandblasting Glass

One of the rising glass etching methods is by using the sandblaster method. It can help produce the most elegant etchings on glass and with various techniques you can create art glass that even people without artistic talents can do with today's equipment. Glass etching equipment is sold by glass etching supply companies at high prices and can be very expensive, but it doesn't have to be when you search for products yourself.

Sandblasting glass, also known as sandcarving glass allows you to control a lot of your etching so you can produce marvelous glass art. This works by following the same steps of producing any etching stencil but the material usually needs to be rather thicker to withstand the pressure of abrasive blasting. The glass etching takes place by blasting abrasive from the sandblaster over the stencil resist material, which is all powered by the supplied air from the air compressor. This erodes the glass to create a frosted elegant design. Here is a list of basic materials that you need to sandblast glass:

Siphon or pressure pot sandblaster

Air compressor

Abrasive media

Glass etching resist material such as vinyl or rubber

Stencil design or pattern to be etched

Pencil or carbon paper to sketch design onto resist

Sharp cutting knife or exact-o knife for cutting design out of resist

Glass to be etched

Protective clothing and dust mask

This is the basic methods of etching glass and anyone can do it. With training, etchers can use more professional equipment to automatically cut designs out of the resist to make a glass etching stencil and use artistic techniques for beautiful glass art. Although it takes a little more proctice to acquire perfect advanced etchings.

Exterior Sliding Glass Doors

Exterior Sliding Glass Doors

Now that summer is knocking on our doors, we are all eager to sit outside and enjoy the fresh and warm air that the sun rays bring along with them. The relaxing oasis after work can be either in the front of our home or in the backyard and this is also where many times homeowners like to invite and entertain guests as well. As there is no such thing as an owner that doesn't care for his home, we all want to show our visitors the best we have to offer. This is why exterior sliding glass doors have become so popular these days with many people.

There is also another aspect that has become increasingly important: the fact that more and more people are working from home instead of going to a regular 9-5 job. This allows people to simply sit in the room with the patio doors open, or work directly in the patio and enjoy the fresh summer breeze that get those creative juices flowing.

This is where patio sliding glass doors can easily help. First of all, they are in fashion nowadays. Since many people have one, the rest want to own one as well. Also they really improve the ambient of any room and house exterior. There is just something to a sliding glass patio door that brings out the best in any home.

Also people who have pets, particularly dogs, can make use of such doors since nowadays you can easily find doors that are designed and manufacturers with your pet in mind. I'm sure everybody has seen movies where the poor dog was trying to get out of the house through the regular door, which closed on the poor thing causing the animal lots of pain and grief. It's painful for us even to watch. So having patio sliding glass dog doors that allow a pet to simply come and go as it pleases is a major plus in anyone's book who owns a pet.

While originally such doors used to be quite expensive, with the emergence of fiberglass as incorporated material, the cost and price has gone down a lot. This now allows many homeowners to buy such a door to enhance the decor and functionality of their home and patio area.

Exterior Sliding Glass Doors

However how can you enliven your patio with a sliding glass door? Well, first of all by using the fiberglass type you give yourself access to this beautiful entrance style. It will not cost a fortune and you will have really a beautiful home decor accessory to look forward to. In most cases you might need to use wood or aluminum panels that will support the folding area so you have as result a modern and elegant door that will be noticed both from inside and outside of the house.

Also you might want to go for a custom made type exterior sliding glass doors, called a French door to further differentiate yourself from your neighbors. The French doors have a great finish work that is particularly appealing to owners of bigger and more expensive homes.

Finally you might want to use glass bi-fold doors, which are those used in shower rooms to give more space by folding them.

The type of exterior sliding glass doors you will use for your patio door is really up to your sense of style, functionality needs and your available budget. However no matter the type you buy, with just a bit of investment, your room and your backyard will look at least a few notches better than that of your neighbor!

Stained Glass Panels

Stained Glass Panels

Stained glass panels are a great way to redecorate your home. When thinking about stained glass windowpanes, the first thing that comes into ones mind is the old churches and cathedrals with large panes describing biblical scenes. Similar, but smaller windowpanes can be added to your home to improve its aspect. You can place stained glass windowpanes of all sizes and shapes in any room of your home or even on front or interior doors.

Time can affect the aspect of a stained glass panel, but not as much as you would think. Actually cleaning a stained panel to much can produce much more damage than the sun or the rain. If you know how to take care of your stained glass panels they can look good for centuries.

Glass windowpanes are best cleaned by natural ways. Additional washing can damage and scrape the glass. However the glass panes placed inside your home must be cleaned periodically. When cleaning the glass panels you shouldn't use water because it only damages the glass. Dusting your windowpanes with a dry brush is the best way to clean glass panels. However you must be certain that you're using a soft brush or else you risk damaging the glass.

There are a few areas that you must check when you're looking for glass damages.

Glass - The glass can have one or even several cracks. Always look for discolorations, because they're obvious damage signs. However the windowpane may have bubbles or textures which are probably parts of the design.

Lead - Because lead is soft and malleable it can easily change its structure. Always check to see if there are any cracks near the fusing joints.

Window Structure - If the glass panel is not correctly installed, the window might bulge. If a windowpane is in its place for a long time you should leave it there and not try to move it or change its structure.

Paint - If paint wasn't correctly fired on the glass, it might be very fragile. Check for paint peeling and blistering.

If your windowpanes present some serious damage you should contact a stained glass specialist. Trying to repair it on your own can produce even more damage to your windowpanes. However before you contact any glass restoration, make sure that your stained glass panels really require repairing.

Architectural Glass

Architectural Glass

Architectural glass is glass used as a structural element, as opposed to merely decorative or inserted in hole in the wall for the sole purpose of providing light and a way to see out. Thus architectural glass doors are doors wherein the glass is an integral structural element of the door.

There are many options when choosing glass for your architectural glass doors, although it may be wise to choose from safety glass types, which include toughened, reinforced and laminated glasses.

Crown glass is the earliest style of glass window. It consisted of hot blown glass forced onto a round, flat sheet and cut to size. It was a very expensive mode of manufacture and could not be used to make large panes.

It is not ideal for architectural glass applications, as it is not particularly strong compared to newer glass technologies. Also, it is expensive. It is still used for restoring old buildings, however, as it has a unique look that cannot be obtained through any other process.

Glass blocks or glass bricks are often used as architectural glass in building walls and partitions, but are not ideal for doors as they tend to be very thick and very heavy. They could be used for doors, but this application is rare.

To make rolled plate glass, large amounts of molten glass are thrown on the cast iron bed of a rolling table, and rolled like dough. It is then trimmed roughly while hot and soft.

Figure rolled glass results when the plate is cast between two rollers, one of which carries a pattern. The resulting pattern will appear in high relief. It is usually whiter than clear glasses and can be laminated or toughened to produce a safety glass suitable for architectural glass doors. This may be an option if you want to combine strength with decorative properties, and a whiter, more opaque color for the sake of privacy.

90 percent of the world's flat glass is float glass. Molten glass is poured onto one end of a molten tin bath. The glass floats on the tin, and levels out as it spreads along the bath. The result is that the glass will be smooth on both sides. The glass cools slowly and solidifies as it travels over the molten tin.

A very small amount of tin becomes embedded on the side facing the tin, and this side is easier to make into a mirror. Molten glass floating on tin will normally spread out to a thickness of about 6mm. It is made thinner by stretching it as it cools, and thicker by squashing it as it cools.

Laminated glass is a safety glass that holds together when shattered. It is held in place by a layer wedged between layers of glass that prevents the glass from breaking into large, sharp dangerous pieces. It is often used in architectural applications. As an added bonus, it insulates better against sound and blocks 99 percent of ultraviolet light.

Types of Glass

Just about any store you go into that offers wine glasses will have a section marked off a red wine glasses and white wine glasses. The question I've often hear is "Does the glass type really matter"? There are varying opinions on this, but here are a few things that I've always thought about when asked that question.

When it comes to white wines, the type of glass that you use is really irrelevant. Some people will say that you should use a glass with a smaller opening or thinner bowl, but when it really comes down to it, the only thing that should really be of concern to you when selecting a glass for your white wine is whether or not it is clean. Nothing ruins wine quite as quickly as a dirty glass.

For red wines I'm often of a mixed opinion. While I typically use a glass with a larger opening and bowl than what I would use to pour white wine, neither do I think it will compromise the wine if you don't use a glass like this. The advantage to using a glass with a larger bowl and opening is that a) you can get your nose into the bowl and really let the aromas of the wine wash over you and b) more oxygen is allowed into the glass allowing the flavors of the wine to open up, essentially like decanting the wine but on a smaller scale.

The other question I've heard is whether the material of the glass matters. This question is much easier to answer. While crystal looks great, and I'll never not recommend it, glass is by far less expensive and since neither will have any effect on the actual taste of the wine, there's really no reason to go out and spend money on crystal when some inexpensive glass goblets will do just as well.

When it comes to which glasses to drink your wine from, the best advice I can ever give is to go to your local store and invest in some inexpensive, basic wine glasses, roughly six labeled as "red wine" and six labeled as "white wine". Most places will sell these for roughly two dollars a glass, which is great since you will eventually break some of them, and there's no reason to be replacing $50 glasses just because somebody knocked one off the table.

As a side note, when it comes to whether or not to buy glasses with or without a stem, there really isn't any difference with the notable exception of it being somewhat more difficult to knock over a glass without a stem. Personally, I'm a big fan of using stemless wine glasses for outdoor parties as you don't have to worry about them getting knocked over and having broken glass in an area that's harder to clean up. Either way, neither one will affect the taste, so whichever you prefer is always going to be fine.

Stained Glass Doors

Stained Glass Doors

Stained glass is perhaps one of the most beautiful types of glass available, and is most known for its presence in lovely medieval church windows, depicting glorious scenes. Usually, stained glass is used to depict some sort of picture or symbol or idea, though now it is increasingly being used as simple decoration and an added touch of beauty to offices and homes. The stained colors are much more subtle, and stained glass is even used in doors and for coffee tables.

Stained glass is created by adding metallic oxides to glass that is molten (created from melting silica with other products) and continually kept melted inside a clay pot over a furnace. The type and amount of oxide added determines the shade and brilliance of color; copper oxides result in green glass, while cobalt makes blue glass and gold makes red glass. These days, the red color is made with less expensive chemicals and produces a more brilliant red.

With stained glass doors becoming more common, more and more companies are willing to produce and sell stained doors for your home or office. Most glass doors have mostly clear (or very slightly tinted glass) with a fairly simple design that involves a bit of stained glass for effect. This way, the door will match the calmer surroundings instead of being garishly bright. While some stained glass doors are completely made of glass (and these are great for inside doors leading to offices, or doors leading into gardens), other stained glass doors are only partially made of glass. Instead, the door is mostly wood, with an inset stained glass window that adds beautifully to the design of the door. However, if you are looking for this type of stained glass door, I would highly recommend having a rather fancy wooden door either stained or painted a darker color; carvings on the door would add to the look, and a heavier wooden door would be best. This makes the glass area fit in aesthetically onto the heavy wooden door. Because glass is so fancy, it is good to have a well-designed door to match it. Wooden doors like these are mostly used as front doors; make sure that your colors and designs also match the exterior of your house before deciding.

In order for a manufacturer to correctly create a glass door for your home, the first step is to make measurements of the door, or of the window set into the door. Make sure these are accurate, as stained glass is difficult to modify. Give the manufacturer a sketched design of what you'd like to be depicted on your stained door, or choose from their selection of designs. It is generally a good idea to keep the design simple and not too colorful-otherwise, the resulting glass may seem too flashy and even garish. Keep in mind that glass doors can be used for indoor and outdoor uses, and some even have glass doors to add a touch of elegance.

Glass Blocks

Glass Blocks

Like many product categories the installation options for glass block windows have grown proportionately to the expanding design options. Years ago, blocks were made in a 8" x 8" x 4" size in a few patterns and put together inside a masonry window opening (usually by a skilled mason) block by block with a gray mortar and masons sand - not real sexy, but it worked. In today's world people want to use blocks more creatively in different types of openings (could be masonry, framed, steel openings etc.) for a wide variety of uses, and not have to rely strictly on a mason to get the job done. The following 5 installation steps can help you think through what's needed to have your block window installation project go smoothly.

o Step 1 - Ask, "What size is my window opening?"- The size of the opening is a large factor in the window installation approach. There are two basic ways to install a glass block window:

* (Option 1) As a window panel alone, or as a panel built into a vinyl or metal framed window system.

* (Option 2) installing the glass blocks one by one inside of the opening.

A benefit of glass block is it's a heavy material, the challenge is it's a heavy material when you're installing it! For most openings less than 25 square feet consider option 1, the block window built as panel (or section) vs. option 2. Option 2 is usually more difficult, costly, and requires a higher skill level. For the first option you can get a block window panel built by a glass block window manufacturer, often saving time and money.

o Step 2 - Ask, "Where is this block window going?" A key factor in the block window installation is if the glass window is going in new construction or a remodeling project, and whether the surrounding construction is masonry (poured concrete or concrete blocks) or frame (surrounded by wood). Here are some recommendations for each job condition:

* New construction projects in framed openings - For new construction framed openings use a vinyl framed nail in glass block window. Consult your glass window manufacturer for the size to create your rough framed opening. These windows (which are usually siliconed together for an all glass look) can be purchased with nailing fins to simply nail in from the outside just like a traditional vinyl window in new construction. Since they can be manufactured with the 2" thick series of blocks (in either a high privacy "Ice" pattern or "Wave" pattern from Mulia Inc.) they are lighter than traditional block windows. These windows can also be purchased for the 3" and 4" thick series of blocks as well if you'd like to try one of the upscale designed Beveled or Spyra series of blocks from Pittsburgh Corning.

* New construction projects in masonry openings - For most masonry openings under 25 square feet it is best to purchase mortared or siliconed block panels that can be set into the opening and mortared in at the top (also called the head), sides (also called the jambs), and bottom (also called the sill).

* Remodeling projects in framed openings -

- (Option A) If you can adjust your openings to fit one of the vinyl framed glass block windows you can install your project like a standard vinyl replacement window (make sure the window manufacturer takes the window nailing fins off for this type of installation) by placing the vinyl window in the opening, insulating around the window, and installing aluminum coil stock capping to meet the glass block window.

- (Option B) If you can't adjust your existing wood opening then remove the existing window sashes and mortar the glass block into the wood opening and install aluminum coil stock to the block and caulk where the coil stock meets the glass masonry units.

Glass Blocks

* Remodeling projects in masonry openings (concrete blocks or poured walls) - In remodeling projects measure the entire size of the masonry openings with the existing frame being removed (the only time you don't remove the metal or wood frames is when the frame is either seated over the concrete blocks or poured walls and removing them might cause damage to the surrounding interior or exterior walls). Then size your block window panels to be smaller than the masonry openings (these block windows can be sized basically in any 2" size increment). The window panels can then be mortared into the openings.

o Step 3 - Ask, "What should I use to put the glass block together into a window panel assembly?" - You might have heard varied opinions about how the block panel should be assembled (the most common methods are using mortar or silicone). While some companies may tell you that only one method is correct, they are often just trying to get people to buy the fabrication method they prefer. You should choose that method where the panel size is going to fit best into the opening (making sure the joints do not exceed 1" around the window). Included below you'll find some advantages of both the mortar and silicone systems:

- Advantages of Mortar over Silicone - Mortar is the traditional way to build a block window. The advantages of this system are the ability to vary the size of the mortar joint (helpful when you have an odd size), the mortar joints can be finished to match the existing masonry, and it's very difficult to break a block out of mortared joint.

- Advantages of Silicone - Silicone is preferred if you like an all glass look to your panel, or if you need a smaller window in an opening (silicone joints are smaller than mortar joints), and transportation is safer because the glass window will stay together better than with mortar.

o Step 4 -Ask, "How do I handle an opening greater than 25 square feet?" - When openings become larger than 25 square feet (mostly in commercial, architectural and institutional projects) it is often better to build the window block by block within the opening (this is because the panels would need to become larger, heavier, and are more difficult to handle). With openings of this size you will need to keep the following installation points in mind:

* The window usually requires a "soft joint" at the top (head), and sides (jambs) of the opening - Windows greater than 25 square feet need more space for expansion and contraction requiring glass block caulk be used at the jambs and head of the opening along with an expansion strip. For larger openings an aluminum channel will also help with concerns regarding wind loads.

* Structural steel or aluminum may be required - To allow for wind loads and structural safety larger openings (greater than 20 feet high for 4" blocks and 10 feet high for 3" blocks, and 25 feet wide for 4" blocks and 15 feet wide for 3" blocks) there should be a metal stiffener put into the glass block window. This stiffener could be a metal hidden plate, an I beam, or a T shaped mullion of steel behind the window/wall.

o Step 5 - Ask, "What should I do if my skills or physical abilities don't allow me to do this type of installation?" - Call a specialty glass block contractor or find a nationwide glass block window manufacturer (to make a pre-made glass panel) to make contract out the installation of this window. This will ease the process, reduce cost, and improve the quality of the block window installation project.

Now that you've got the 5 installation steps you're ready to either to get your hands dirty or hire the right specialty glass block contractor for your project.

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block and Mid America Glass Block of Cincinnati, Dayton, and Akron and Vice President Eastern Glass Block of New Jersey and New York. These companies are nationwide suppliers, glass block window manufacturers, and installation contractors of glass block windows, showers, walls, and specialty colored glass blocks. Mike can be reached at the following:

Tel. 614-252-5888 Nationwide 877-668-5888