Glazing
The primary purpose of glazing in framing is to physically protect the work of art from damaging factors such as humidity, heat, and soiling. Regular glass as well as some glass surface treatments can also filter some of the damaging ultra-violet radiation(UV) and heat (NIR). Artworks that require protective glazing are those rendered on paper or fabrics (including photographs), which contain pigments and dyes that absorb UV and are susceptible to discoloration.Laminated and some acrylic glazing may be used to protect against physical damage from glass breakage and to offer protection from a malicious attack.
Regular Glass:
Regular picture framing glass 2.5mil which is the most common type of glazing. It is strong, resistant to scratches and relatively affordable. Regualr glass filters only approximately 50% of destructing U.V. rays.
Non-Glare Glass:
None-glare picture framing glass is finished to diffuse reflected light. This process aslo give the glass surface a matte finish. This glass is great if your artwork is hanging right in front of a window. This glass is slightly more expensive than regular glass.
Conservation glass:
Conservation picture framing glass is clear glass to which an ultraviolet (UV) inhibiting film has been applied. Conservation glass blocks up to 98% of the UV rays, compared to 50% blocked by regular glass. Conservation glass should be used whenever you are framing sentimental, valuable, limited edition and one-of-a-kind artwork.
Plexiglass:
Plexiglass is a acrylic (plastic) glazing.
Pros of plexiglass are:
- Much lighter than glass
- Acrylic Glazing is practically shatterproof,
- It has a greater level of U.V. protection, filtering more than 60% of harmful rays.
Cons of acrylic picture framing are:
- The primary disadavantage is that acrylic scratches easily
- It is surprisingly expensive beause it is considered higher quality than regular glass.
Do not use glass cleaners to clean acrylic beacuse remember it is plastic, NOT glass. The surface will become foggy and rough cloths can leave irreparable scratches. Use a soft cloth, and purchase a special cleaner just for acrylic.
Laminated:
Laminated is a sheet of thin plastic, essentially melted or vacuum-sealed onto the surface of your photograph or artwork. Lamination protects from dust and moisture.