There are many advantages to installing custom glass shelves. All of a sudden, an empty wall becomes the focal point of a room, allowing you to display your treasures. Or maybe you now have the much-needed place to show off items you no longer want to have out of sight in a drawer. Additionally, a custom glass shelf can add a touch of light and design to liven up any room.
How Do You Decide on What Glass Shelf Works Best for You?
Before deciding what type of glass you want for your custom glass shelves, there are some questions you need to answer. To begin with, you need to decide how heavy the objects that will be displayed on them are. By knowing this, you can determine how thick the glass will have to be.
There are three types of glass:
Annealed or Float Type Glass
This light glass is ideal to hold picture frames and other light items. It is the weakest type of glass and breaks easily into large shards.
Tempered Glass
Tempered glass is made by heating it to high temperatures and then quickly allowing it to cool in the air. Since this type of glass is stronger, it allows you to place larger and heavier objects on it. You may want the shelf to hold a flat-screen TV or maybe some books.
Fully Tempered Glass
This type of glass is made by following a strictly controlled heating and cooling process. The strength of the resulting glass can be determined by looking at its thickness. Obviously, a thicker glass shelf will be stronger and less prone to breakage than one made from thin glass.
Selecting a Glass Edge
If you are interested in having a custom glass shelf that makes a statement and brings a touch of design to your decorating project, you need to decide what type of edge your shelves will have. The edge of your shelves will add style and character to the room. Here are some ideas for popular shelf edges.
Pencil-Polished Edge
Used for many types of furniture including shelves, this edge offers a smooth finish that is rounded.
Beveled Edge
A beveled edge adds luxury to your shelf. These edges are shiny and present a polished, finished look.
Slanted Edge
This edge connects 2 pieces of glass at a particular angle and creates a uniquely interesting thicker glass.
If you are unsure as to which edge would make your glass shelves look best, it is recommended you talk to your interior designer or glass fabricator to get some guidance.
Other Considerations When Buying Custom Glass Shelves
Glass Thickness
The thickness of your custom glass shelves depends on your specific requirements with 3/16” to ½” with ¼” and 3/8” being the most popular thicknesses.
Tint
You may also want to add color to your glass shelves. From solid shades to colors that include bronzes and grays, you may also want to consider frosted or clear shelves.
