Glass Processing

As well as cutting glass or mirror to size for your own frames we also specialise in various type of processing for items like table-tops, shelves and more.  Below are some of the things available:

 

Edge-Work Smoothing

For a plain minimal look glass can have the sharp edge smoothed off or ground.  Having just the sharp edge smoothed off is usually the most cost effective type of processing and can be done on 2mm, 3mm, 4mm or 6mm thickness glass (or mirrors).  It is safer and still fairly neat without rough chipped edge.  Ideal anywhere the side of the edge is not seen (e.g. in a recess).  Great for clip frames, cheaper protective tops, enclosed shelves and more.

 

Edge-Work Polishing

If the edge is in a clearly visible location then usually a fully polished edge looks best.  This is where the edge is ground down to size then buffed up to a shiny polished finish.  We can polish edges of glass or mirror that is 4mm or thicker.  It costs a little more and takes a little longer to produce, but it gives a highly finished look as top 2 pictures on right (or below if using small screen).  Ideal for wide variety of uses, such as table-tops, shelves, un-framed screens, un-framed balconies and more. 

 

Edge-Work Bevelling

A bevel is a decorative chamfer that is usually more than 10mm wide.  Although we can get bevels as small as 6mm and up to most popular 25mm wide processed on 4mm thickness glass or mirror, or up to 35mm wide on 6mm and thicker glass.  However it takes a lot longer to process and costs more than polishing, but can look really good in the right location (note we are currently unable to produce bevels on curved edges).  Ideal for glass where you can see through (e.g. window) or with a reflection (e.g. mirror) for a stunning decorative look, as 3rd picture on right (or below if using small screen).

 

Glass Drilling

We can drill glass with hole diameter of 6mm diameter or more.  Whether it's for fixing with screws or something else, just let us know the diameter size required and location when contacting us and we will work it out for you. 

 

Glass Cut-Outs

Straight square or rectangle cut outs can be processed in many types of glass.  Either in the corner, external edge or set internally.  This enable fitting of the glass around fixtures.  However note, we can only smooth the cut out edge and each corner requires rounded radius to process and reduce breakage risk.

 

Sand-Blasting

From basic sand-blasted glass or mirror to some decorative designs, many great things can be produced with a sand-blasting.  Although please note that it can take a few weeks to produce.  All our sand-blasted glass comes with protective Ritec coating as standard, so it won't mark or spoil easily like unprotected sand-blasting.

 

Glass PaintingThis is colour coated glass for use as splash-back, upstands or work-tops etc.  They can be made to order/size from the standard RAL colour range or standard BS4800 range, which gives 100s of colours to choose from.  Or the more cost effective standard Cool White, Mid Grey and Deep Black are available, which are toughened after processing to bake the colour on. As 5th picture on right (or below if using small screen).

 

CNC Shape Processing

Faily complex shapes can be made from glass providing there is a rigid hardboard or plywood template with a clean edge to run through the machine.

 

Glass Toughening

Most types of glass from 4mm thickness and above can be toughened (tempered).  This is a process where the glass is heated and rapidly cooled in a furnace to strengthen the glass and to ensure is safer if broken.  However, it is important to note; once glass is toughened we are unable to cut or process it again, so please double-check details and sizes before placing any orders.

 

Decorative Overlay Lead-Lights

Using external grade 99% natural overlay lead we can produce bespoke glass designs to order.  They can replicate a traditional pattern or more up-to-date design.  UV stable colour and obscure effects can also be added for stunning art.  We can also get lots of different bevels that can be bonded to the glass and set within the lead enhancing the look even more.  We have some designs in shop, but if you have your own you would like a price for then please feel free to ask.

 

Double-Glazed Sealed Units

Many types of glass can be combined with a spacer bar and sealed to make a double-glazed unit that will replace any that are damaged or broken down (trapped condensation) in a window. We have regular collections/deliveries from sealer, so can supply quickly at competative rates. Glass can be incorporated with Softcoat Low-E glass for more thermal efficiency, and spacer bars comes in standard aluminium silver, dark bronze, white, brass gold, plus warm-edge option for reduced condensation and better U-Value. They can also be Argon filled for better ratings.

 

Note:  All our processed glass and mirrors are of high quality, so does takes time to produce.  However we usually have short lead times for most technical work, which depending on the requirements it is generally from a few days to a couple of weeks. We are currently unable to process any glass whilst waiting, but do have some samples of processing in the shop. We also do not carry out any fitting or installations. If you need further information please contact us.