Author Archives: Gene Graham

6 Ways Mirror Glass Is Used in the Home

mirror-glass-western-suburbs-melbourne

Both versatile and elegant, mirror glass is one of the best design mediums for enhancing an interior with an attractive aesthetic.

 

Whether you are working with a modern contemporary or an ornately styled home, bespoke mirrors can be made to seamlessly complement your design vision.

 

With the flawless clarity of high-quality glass, it is possible to cut, finish and shape glass any way you’d like to give your interior an enchanting focal point. By reflecting light, your mirror will increase the light in your home, create the perception of greater space, and you can have your glass customized to create unique optical effects.

 

Mirrors aren’t just for appearance. They have the power to subtly transform your home’s ambiance. Here are some inspiring ideas to show you how far-reaching the limits of reflective glass are for luxury homes.

 

1. Bathroom Mirror Design Ideas

 

Mirrors are an essential part of bathroom design. Whilst the traditional framed rectangular-shaped mirror glass looks fitting in any interior, it is a tailored glass design that can elevate a bathroom. Often thought of as the sanctuary of the home, the bathroom space works well with a range of mirror styles.

 

For a modern home, frameless mirror glass is a popular choice. Frameless glass manufactured with the most advanced manufacturing techniques yields remarkable clarity. Depending on the rest of your bathroom’s design, you may want to think outside of the classic rectangular mirror.

 

For a softer feel, circular frameless mirror glass is incredibly appealing. Lights can also be installed behind the round shape for an elegantly luminous look.

 

In this sunlit bathroom, the frameless mirror glass are designed to fit over the windows, creating a point of architectural interest, whilst also being highly functional. There is enough space behind the mirrors to open or close the window shades, allowing the perfect amount of light in. 

 

2. Wardrobe and Room Border Glass Ideas

 

Mirror glass installed on hinge doors always looks exquisite whilst also providing a reflective surface for dressing. Clear, frameless glass serves as a beautiful cover piece for an otherwise unadorned wooden wardrobe or closet door surface. Combine glass-cloaked hinged doors with transparent glass for a distinctive wardrobe design.

 

Mirrors can also be used for fabricating luxurious sliding doors. Mirror glass doors can be used for wardrobes, to separate closet space, or to create an enchanting border between other areas of your home.

 

The result is a timeless look that is easy to design around, and easy to clean. You can opt for customized glass doors for an original style. Frosted glass makes a stunning border between two spaces. Combine with a reflective mirrored surface for even more intrigue.

 

3. Use Glass to Redirect Light

 

Light has the power to facilitate just the right ambiance. You can use custom-designed mirrors to reflect different types of light to create a warm, rich illumination. Traditionally, a large mirror is placed on a living room wall opposite window glass to redirect the natural light that enters the space.

 

However, a well-crafted mirror can do so much more, using interior lighting, sunlight, and even the radiant glow from a living room fireplace.

 

You can also use mirror glass to redirect color. Bold, vibrant interiors can make a space feel less open. With reflective glass, however, you can use your crimson, magenta, and emerald hues and use glass to open up your space. For even greater visual interest, you can even use color on parts of the glass.

 

4. Mirrored Glass Splashbacks

 

More and more luxury homeowners are turning to mirrored glass splashbacks for their tasteful appeal as well as their functionality. Glass is easy to clean, mold resistant, and more durable than other materials. With mirrored glass splashbacks and back panels, you can do almost anything.

 

In the kitchen, a mirrored glass splashback will increase light and depth while also serving as an easy-to-clean surface. No more worrying about grease and tomato sauce stains working their way into your tiled backsplash. For an even greater luxury appeal, install feature lights directly above the mirrored glass.

 

5. Luxury Mirrored Glass Wall Panels

 

Want to add a sense of drama to your West Melbourne home?

 

Consider glass wall panels.

 

The fantastic thing about mirrored walls is that you can do almost anything to create a design that perfectly aligns with your interior space.

 

For example, combine a high polish finish with opaque sandblasted glass for a dynamic look.

 

Textured glass can create the impact you want, whether you want a rough texture to stand up to the rich colors and sharp lines of your interior, or a more flowing look for a softer, delicately designed space.

 

An experienced glazier can create different designs into your glass, turning your mirrored glass wall panels into original works of art.

 

Glass wall panels are excellent in the living room and great room spaces, but they can also be used to make smaller spaces, such as entranceways, hallways, and bathrooms, appear much larger.

 

6. Reflective Home Office Space

 

Open up your home office with a sheet of customized frameless glass. The reflective surface will help to bring in more light and open up the space, creating a more peaceful, inviting environment.

 

Stick with a traditional cut or opt for a more interesting optical effect with bevelled edges. Cover part of the space or go for a floor-to-ceiling mirror.

 

Glass is luxurious, whilst also being practical. It opens up any space, illuminates, creates drama, and adds warmth. It is also completely customizable, whether you want a colored or sandblasted design for an original piece of art in your home or if you want unconventional cuts and finishes.

 

When you work with glaziers who are passionate about the art and function of mirror glass, you can make your vision a reality, enhancing your home with timeless, original beauty.

 

melbourne glazier

Why You May Have to Replace Glass Table Top

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Glass has a long list of appealing characteristics, which is why it’s such a desirable table top material.

 

Easy maintenance, a look that never goes out of style and it’s not vulnerable to damage and decay from moisture, dust, and other unavoidable environmental factors.

 

But glass is glass, which means it can break, leaving you in the search to replace glass table top in Hoppers Crossing and the surrounding areas of Melbourne.

glass-table-top-replacementWhen looking for a new piece of glass to replace glass table top, which type of glass should you use so you aren’t shopping for a replacement again in a few months? 

 

How much will a glass table top replacement cost? 

 

Can you buy one that will fit your existing table base?

 

Most importantly, what can be done to prevent your table top from breaking again?

 

With the right piece of glass, custom-cut and finished and properly taken care of, you can enjoy a pristine glass table for years to come, with no second replacement in your future. Here’s a look at what you should look for in a quality replace glass table top and how you can keep your new glass in mint condition for decades.

 

Key Considerations For Replace Glass Table Top

 

You want to get a piece of glass that will last, at a great value. And, of course, you want it to look stunning atop your table base. The following considerations will impact the cost of your replacement, as well as the aesthetics and longevity. Before you order a glass table top to replace your broken one, consider these factors:

 

Glass Shape – Will you need a round replace glass table top? A rectangle piece of glass for a dining room table or another custom shape? The shape of your glass will impact the cost and how long it will take to make your replacement. 

 

In general, a rectangular glass table top replacement will cost less than a round piece of glass or any other custom shape. The higher expense is because custom shapes require the use of a computer-driven machine, called a CNC machine, to ensure an accurate cut and finish.

 

Glass Size

If you aren’t sure what the size of your old glass table top is, it’s worth having a professional glazier take measurements for you to determine the right size for your replacement. Getting to-the-millimeter precision is important to ensure your replacement glass will balance or sit on your table well – and that it will look attractive.

 

At Economy Glass, we’ll be happy to come out to your home to take accurate measurements for you, giving you one less thing to worry about.

 

Glass Type

You’re probably wondering if your glass would have broken if you had originally opted for toughened safety glass. It may still have broken, although it would have had more of a chance of staying intact. 

 

Toughened glass, also known as tempered glass, is about four times stronger than standard glass. That’s why toughened glass is often used for outdoor glass tables and for table tops that aren’t set on a flat surface but rather are balanced on a base. For example, a tempered glass patio table top replacement will cost more than a standard patio glass table, but it may be well worth it.

 

Common Causes of Broken Glass Table Tops

 

Once you have your new glass, the last thing you want is for it to break again. By knowing what is likely to cause your table to crack into pieces, you can take a few precautionary measures. Then hopefully, you’ll never need to replace glass table top again.

 

Heat Can Break Your Glass

 

One reason for a broken table is high temperatures. Glass is a good conductor of heat, so if you set a steaming pot of soup directly on your dining room table glass top, you can damage the timber surface underneath. Second, the high temperature may be enough to cause your glass table top to crack.

 

To prevent this from happening, always put a pot holder or other protective material in between your hot dishes and your glass table.

 

Wind Can Break Your Glass

 

Glass is the modern-day table top of choice for patio furniture. It’s organic, yet the sophisticated vibe is perfect for luxury outdoor living. However, most homeowners don’t realize that a big piece of glass with a large surface area, like a table top, becomes nothing but a giant sail in high winds. Therefore, if your outdoor glass table top is not secured firmly or sheltered during those windy months (along with your other patio furniture), the wind can knock it off its base, causing it to break.

 

Accidents Happen – Especially When Cleaning

 

The other threat to your glass table top is cleaning. Sometimes when people remove their table top to clean underneath it or move the table to clean the area around the table, the glass can fall or knock against another hard service.

 

When cleaning, be careful. If you need to move your glass table top for any reason and you aren’t sure if you can relocate it without causing damage, call your local glazier for help.

 

No one wants their beautiful glass table top to break. But, sometimes even with your best efforts, the unexpected happens. Not to worry. You can have replacement glass sized, cut, and finished to have it look exactly like your old one.

 

Or, you can even have it made to suit a new custom look, such as a different bevelled edge, or opt for a tempered glass table top this time to make damage that much less likely. And with care, and a quick call to your local glass company if you ever need help moving it around, this will be the last replace glass table top you ever buy.

 

frameless glass

7 Rectangle Glass Table Top Ideas for Your Home

rectangle-glass-table-top-western-suburbs-melbourneFrom a sleek glass dining room table to dazzling coffee tables with a rectangle glass table top, a glass surface always adds a distinctively elegant look to any space.

 

As glass is the master of versatility when it comes to design, you have a sea of options for your table. Pair it with any other material, in whatever style décor you have n Melbourne; glass always looks perfect.

 

Here are some of the best examples of the iconic rectangular table top in use.

 

Take a look at these ideas to help you decide your ideal.

 

1. Glass and Dark Wood Dining Room Table

 

Both what goes underneath and on top of your piece of glass will draw the eye so think carefully about how the other colours and textures in the room flow around your tables top. With this glass dining room table, the rich dark wood beneath the glass helps to ground the airy teal blues and silvers of the room. Notice how the rounded corners of the wooden table parallel the rounded finish of the rectangular glass.

 

2. Tinted Glass with Metal

 

 

For a modern contemporary home, a clean glass table top set over steel or chrome legs looks stunning. The bluish tint of this piece of glass subtly complements the cool tones of the room.

 

3. Frosted or Textured Glass Table Top

 

Instead of using transparent glass, opt for custom-treated glass. As long as you have plenty of light in the room, preferably coming from various angles, a frosted or textured appearance creates an irresistible focal point.

 

With tons of natural light, bright pendant lighting, overhead flood lights, and the glow of a candlelight centerpiece, this rectangle glass table top has the chance to shine in a variety of ways.

 

4. Glass That Creates an Illusionary Impact

 

Depending on the way light hits the glass, it can create fantastic optical illusions. Take this custom-made wood and glass table for example. The glass is silver-leafed, so it acts to reflect light. As a result, when the lighting from above the table hits the glass, it makes it appear as if the glass is illuminated from below.

 

5. Industrial Chic with Float Glass

 

 

Turn a concrete, steel, or wooden rectangular coffee table into industrial chic art with a piece of clear float glass. The glass tables will protect the material underneath, keeping your tables in pristine condition for longer, whilst also adding a stylish aesthetic.

 

This look works well in any minimalist, modern, or industrial setting often seen in certain areas of Melbourne. You can have your glass custom-cut for a flawless fit over your coffee tables.

 

6. Mid-Century Glass Coffee Table

 

 

Want to elevate the look of your rectangular mid-century coffee table?

 

A tabletop will transform a standard table into a sophisticated focal point, adding light and dimension to your table. As a transparent surface, you can still see what’s stacked below the tabletop, making it great for displaying books or other design elements whilst still enjoying an uncluttered table surface.

 

7. Architecturally Unique Kitchen Table

 

Because glass is impervious to water, easy to clean, and one of the most durable design materials, it is a top choice for kitchen tables. This table marries function and style, whilst being a totally original architectural element.

 

With a table top, there’s no limit to what you can do. It can transform a traditional rectangular table, create an ambiance of elegance, add dimension, light, and visual intrigue – and it can even be custom cut and installed in such a way to perfectly complement your home in the most unique of ways.

 

frameless glass

Why Tempered Glass Is Used for Table Tops

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When it comes to glass tables, both indoors and outdoors in Victoria, Australia, using tempered glass table top is vital to being able to enjoy your table in the long-term, worry-free.

 

Some people try to reduce costs by opting for a standard piece of glass to use as a table surface. After all, you plan to use your table carefully, so it doesn’t necessarily need the same ultra-strong glass that’s used for shop windows, vehicle windshields, and mobile phone screens.

 

Or does it?

 

When you consider how problematic – and expensive – a broken glass table top could become, you’ll realize why using tempered glass table top is so important. It’s not just a case of taking extra precautions.

 

When you use glass as a design or architectural feature, you want it to last for years, even decades, without cracking. And, you don’t want to have to worry about the safety of you or your loved ones.

 

What Is Tempered Glass?

 

Tempered glass is basically glass that toughens. It’s about four times stronger than regular, or annealed glass. To make tempered glass, controlled heating and cooling treatments use during the production process to give the glass greater resilience.

 

The glass is first heated to an extreme temperature. Next, it put through a high-pressure cooling process, which cools the outer surfaces faster than the centre of the glass. As a result, the inside retains tension whilst the outer layer is in a state of eternal compression.

 

Chemical treatments can also be used to temper the glass, although thermal conditioning is more widely used because it is a less expensive process while still being effective.

 

Following this conditioning process, not only is the glassless sensitive to the environment or to impact, but also, if it does break, it tends to fracture into smaller, granular pieces. This makes it a much safer option than annealed glass, which shatters into jagged shards.

 

Because of these characteristics, tempered glass table tops offer greater longevity whilst also being a safer option – without sacrificing aesthetic style or customization potential.

 

When To Use Tempered Glass Table Tops For Indoor Tables

 

As long as your glass is sitting directly on top of an existing table, essentially covering the surface of another table tops material, such as wood or metal, you can simply use clear float glass. This because the secondary surface supports the structure of the glass, and the glass held in place by ridges around the edge of the table.

 

If the table not ridged, toughened glass should use instead. This is because, without the ridges, it is easier for the glass table top to be knocked off the surface. 

glass company

 

When you’re setting the glass on top of a centered base, whether it’s a piece of wood, pottery, composite material, or more glass, it’s always smarter to use a tempered glass table top. 

 

Even if you feel confident that the glass surface is secure, the right amount of weight or sudden pressure can disturb the balance of your table. If the glass moves and you have tempered glass, you don’t have to worry about it shattering into thousands of sharp, jagged pieces. Likely, your only problem will be repositioning it (tempered glass table top are usually surprisingly heavy!).

 

Tempered Glass Table Top for Outdoor Use

 

With outdoor tables, tempered glass is a must-have feature. Even if you live in an area with a mild climate, if the wind picks up which known in the Western Suburbs of Melbourne at certain times of the year, the wide flat surface of your glass table top makes it extremely vulnerable. Glass acts like a large sail when caught by the wind, and can propel great distances at high speeds.

 

Using toughened glass helps to avoid this problem. If the toughened glass properly attached to the table structure, it is less likely to break loose by the wind. In the event that the glass loosened, the strengthened material either will remain intact or break down into small granular pieces, which do not represent a laceration hazard.

tempered glass table top

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There are plenty of balmy, sunny days to entertain guests and enjoy sunlit meals outside when you can leave your glass table set up ready for use, or simply to enjoy its aesthetic appeal.

 

Experiencing Your Own Glass Table Top

 

With a safer, stronger tempered glass table top, you can get the timeless look of glass plus peace of mind. Just be sure to work with a glass and glazing company that can give you the custom cut and finish you want. 

 

At Economy Glass, glass cut to size and polished in-house. We can also come out to your home or project site to take measurements to ensure your glass cut accurately to the millimeter. With professional measuring, cutting, and finishing, you’ll know you’re getting a piece of high-quality glass that will fit perfectly on your table.

 

frameless glass

5 Tips to a Round Glass Table Top

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From the modern dining room table to a stunning piece of outdoor furniture, with a round glass table top, there is more than one thing you can count on. You’re going to love the look, longevity and easy maintenance of your table – now and years in the future.

 

With a versatile aesthetic and a sense of refinement that never fades, glass is a popular choice for table tops. A round shape is often favoured for glass table tops, from the elegant living room coffee table to the perfect table for your sunny breakfast nook, for its soft ambience and ability to blend well with other textures, shapes and architectural features.

 

To get the most from your table top, whether you are looking for a new, custom-cut round glass top for your dining table or replacement glass for an existing table in your home, take a look at these industry insights into the iconic round glass table for your home in Melbourne, Victoria.

 

1. Measuring for Your Round Glass Top

 

The first step to getting the beautifully cut and polished glass that you want is, to begin with, precise measurements. In general, table tops are measured in relation to the table base or surface they will be going on.

 

If you aren’t sure how to measure your table to determine the right diameter or aren’t comfortable with taking precise measurements, ask a glass and glazing company to come in and take the dimensions for you. They’ll use a laser to determine the right size down to the millimetre. This means your finished top will be cut to size to the same level of accuracy.

 

2. Round Table Tops Are CNC Cut and Polished

 

With a square or rectangle glass table, it’s possible to do a manual cut. With shaped glass, such as a round or oval glass top, a glazing company will use a CNC machine to do the cutting. CNC stands for computer numerical control. It essentially utilises computer programming to get a flawless custom cut and gorgeous, polished finish.

 

Your glass will be templated, scanned and then cut to size and polished using advanced digital technology. This yields a greater level of accuracy and a higher quality product.

 

3. Shaped Glass Takes Time

 

Because of this need for high-tech machinery, expect your round table top to take some time and to cost more than a standard cut. At Economy Glass, round glass tops for dining, living room and kitchen tables are a frequent request.

 

With approximately five to seven days of lead time to create the digital template and to complete both the CNC cut and polish. So, We are usually able to finish a custom project in a timely manner.

 

4. Ordering a Round Glass Table Top Replacement

 

What if you are ordering a replacement piece for a table you already have?

 

You can take the measurements of the existing glass you want to replace and use those for the new piece of glass. However, again, if you aren’t yourself a builder, designer. Or an experienced DIY-er who is comfortable taking precise measurements, don’t hesitate to ask for professional help.

 

After all, you want your finished round glass top to perfectly fit on your table. Depending on the style and shape, being a few millimetres off can diminish the usual pristine aesthetic that glass typically offers.

 

5. The Right Glass Will Last a Lifetime

 

 

With the right measurements and by working with a glass and glazing company that uses the proper machinery to create the beautiful custom cut and polish you have envisioned, you’ll enjoy a timeless piece of furniture for decades.

 

Not only will it be a functional, hardwearing table top. But, it will also double as a stunning design element for any room in your home. Or even for your outdoor living area.

 

frameless glass

Expert Tips to Get Your Glass Table Tops Cut to Size

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With a refined aesthetic and timeless appeal, glass tabletops are one of those design features that are guaranteed to look stunning in any room. But, there is one important prerequisite. The glass for the tabletop needs to be cut to size and finished with the hand of a professional glazier.

 

When glass is cut to the right dimensions to suit your space, and it has the essential features of quality and craftsman knowledge – the right type of glass and finish are used to suit the surroundings – you can’t go wrong with glass tabletops.

 

This is true whether you’re envisioning a dining room table or a unique, eye-catching living room coffee table with a surface made from crystal clear float glass.

 

Here are the steps to take that will ensure your glass tabletops are cut to size, from the initial measuring and planning through to the completion of your table.

 

Choose the Right Style of Glass to Have Cut

 

Depending on the finished look that you want from your table. There are various styles of glass you can use, such as frosted or tinted glass. However, by far, the most common request is for clear glass.

 

This is because transparent glass is so incredibly versatile. You can have a piece of clear float glass custom cut to fit with an existing table base. Anything from vibrantly colored pottery or a metal table to natural wood. You can even have glass cut to the right size to fit. With a custom-made table base or to neatly cover an existing table surface.

 

The beauty of using a clear glass top is that it will bring the eye to the table base, and provide a functional (and flawlessly beautiful) surface, without making your space feel cramped or overstyled.

 

Consider Toughened Glass for Your Table

 

Unless your table is ridged and the glass is neatly set within the table structure, it’s always smart to have your table top cut from toughened safety glass.

 

Toughened glass undergoes special thermal and/or chemical treatments during the manufacturing process. As a result, the glass has different properties than standard glass. Toughened glass is much stronger so it is extremely difficult to break.

 

Known as safety glass, its properties cause it to hold together and ‘web’ into cracks, rather than breaking into shards, if it is ever exposed to enough force. This means, you not only get to enjoy a gorgeous table with custom-cut toughened glass. But you will also enjoy peace of mind.

 

Have Your Table Glass Professionally Measured

 

You can have your glass table top specially cut and sent to your home or business – Economy Glass delivers anywhere in the western suburbs of Melbourne with a convenient three to five-day turnaround time.

 

You may also want to have a professional come out to your property to take accurate measurements for your table, which Economy Glass can do as well. There’s a huge advantage to having an expert measure your table.

 

With the right tools, such as a laser for measuring, and a working knowledge of how glass tabletops are cut and sized, an experienced glazier will be able to take precise dimensions. This means your tabletop will be cut accurately to the millimeter.

 

There’s one thing you don’t want to do.

 

That is to order a piece of quality glass, cut to size based on the existing table’s manufacturer’s specifications. Or your own measurements, only to find out the dimensions are off. Especially if you are placing the glass surface over another table surface, such as a wooden table. A slight discrepancy in size can ruin the fluid perfection that a well-cut glass tabletop should provide.

 

With guaranteed, to-the-millimeter precision, you’ll enjoy a perfect fit as your glass surface will be elegantly balanced both visually and physically.

 

Have Your Glass Tabletop Cut and Polished Together

 

For optimal results, you should have your glass tabletops cut at the same location it will be polished. This way, your glass isn’t being moved from one studio or warehouse space to another.

 

Also, the same glaziers who took your table measurements. And who understand your design vision and expectations will be in charge of each stage of the process.

 

You can feel confident that your table top is going to look flawless. When you have one company managing the professional cut as well as the polishing and edging. This is key to getting exactly what you want.

 

With glass, you can do almost anything with your table.

 

frameless glass

Why Custom Glass Table Tops Are So Popular Today

Read Our Custom Glass Table Tops Benefits

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Why are more and more design and building experts recommending custom glass table tops to their clients today?

 

Glass isn’t just aesthetically pleasing. It’s also one of the most functional materials to use in modern living and office spaces.

 

Always elegant, no matter what style of the room, the timeless quality of the glass makes it an ideal glass table tops material. With almost effortless maintenance, design versatility and the peace of mind that it will look brand new for years beyond when other materials age, no wonder glass is increasingly being used for the surfaces we eat, cook and stack our favourite books and home decorations on – and just to relish the visual appeal.

 

With custom glass, cut and finished to your exact size needs and preferences, your tabletops, countertops and more can take on a whole new level of sophistication – and practicality. So, Take a look at all the benefits of custom glass table tops surfaces.

 

Glass Is Easy to Maintain

 

 

One of the strongest arguments for glass, in a variety of applications for luxury homes and commercial spaces, is easy maintenance. Where wood, cork, stone and that sleek white PVC mid-century table base will stain, and metals will attract dust and require regular waxing to retain their sheen, glass is resistant and impervious to almost everything. 

 

The overwhelming majority of table top choices are vulnerable to slow deterioration from the elements, general wear and tear and common marks and stains, like cup rings, dents and scratches.

 

Glass isn’t. It won’t stain or deteriorate.

 

With high-quality custom glass table tops, you’d have to take a hammer to it to get it to crack. And, the best feature of all?

 

It’s one of the easiest materials to keep flawlessly clean. A cloth and a basic glass cleaner are all you need. Spray and wipe for that gorgeous, crystalline finish.

 

No waxing needed. No refinishing to refresh the look of your glass surface. And No harsh chemicals to try and remove stains that have sunk into a porous surface.

 

Glass Table Tops Offer Longevity

 

Your beautiful glass table can last for years, and then some. If you’ve ever walked through a museum featuring glass relics from the Roman era, you’ll notice, despite being a millennium-and-a-half old, a lot of the glass plates, perfume bottles, drinking cups, vases and other pieces are left completely intact. That’s because glass is one of the most difficult materials to corrode.

 

You can have a custom glass table made for your home or office, and then pass it down to the next generation, looking as if it were made yesterday. This longevity adds value to your table. It also gives you the confidence that your custom-made glass furniture is worth every penny.

 

Glass Will Protect Your Other More Vulnerable Materials

 

A surprising benefit you may not realise until you have your glass table top sitting in your home for a few months – the material beneath your glass somewhat protected. The glass will shield the wood, stone, plastic or other material from spills, stains and even some dust accumulation, helping your expensive oak furniture, copper, iron or whatever else your table manufacturer from, remain in better condition than it would be without the protection of glass.

 

With a clear surface, a glass top will also allow your table base material to stand out. If you have ornately crafted, colourful or other eye-catching bases, glass is the perfect compliment to direct the eye where you want it to go.

 

Your Glass Table Is Sustainable

 

A unique advantage of glass furniture and architectural pieces, in general, is that glass is one of the most eco-friendly materials you can use. Your tabletop didn’t use up natural resources like wood or stone, nor is it a petroleum-based product, like most synthetic tables and counters are. It made from silica, in sand form, which is melted to a liquid, shaped and cooled.

 

Glass does take energy to manufacture as it has to heat to a very high temperature.

 

However, once it’s made it can repurpose into new applications over and over again. Not that your stunning custom table top won’t still be intact beyond your lifetime. But, with glass being one of the most flexible materials to reuse, it is one of the most sustainable options we have for building and interior design.

 

Glass Surfaces Open Up Small Spaces

 

 

For small breakfast nooks or cosy dens, a glass table top will help to open up your space. Because glass is translucent, allowing light to pass through, it serves as a functional piece without taking up ‘visual space.’ Pair with plenty of light and fresh, natural colours. And your glass table will turn a tiny room into an airy, welcoming environment.

 

Glass Table Tops Offer Aesthetic Freedom

 

 

Because of the clarity, purity, and the ‘virgin’ quality of glass, it looks appealing with any design style. This gives you the freedom to change the colour and overall ambience of your space. No matter what you do in the area around it, the glass will always look perfect.

 

Glass isn’t stylistically confined like other furniture materials are. Modern, Victorian, industrial or Mediterranean – your glass table will always suit its environment.

 

With custom table tops, you can also enjoy unique, endlessly-versatile features that perfectly fit within and enhance your home. An experienced glass company will come to your home to take precise measurements. They’ll work with you if you have a particular shape or size in mind. You can also customise the edges, with a polished edge for a clean look. Or a more intricate beveled finish if you want your glass table to have more personality.

 

Whether you’re looking for a glass top for your kitchen island, your dining room table, an elegant coffee table or an end table, custom glass table tops can help you achieve the character and aesthetic you want, whilst also providing you with a high-value, hard-wearing piece of furniture.

 

frameless glass

How to Clean Your Shower Glass

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Limescale chalky, off-white deposit that is often found on the inside of your shower screens. If you have ever tried to scrub away limescale, you’ll know that it is incredibly difficult to remove. When If it is not cleaned constantly, the limescale will start to build up and will eventually etch itself into the glass and become almost impossible to clean.

 

If you were to look at the surface of the glass under a microscope, you would see that it has a fine and porous surface that the water sticks to. The deposits will fill up the small pits within the surface, making it even more difficult to shower glass clean.

 

So, what’s the shower glass clean solution?

 

Rather than finding a solution for cleaning limescale deposits – the question you should be asking is how to avoid having to clean them in the first place. That’s where Nano Coating can help.

 

What is Nano-Coating?

 

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This is a hydrophobic coating that will repel water and will prevent the limescale from adhering to the glass in the first place. It will also stop other foreign matter from building up on the glass surface. When your shower screen has a nano-coating. This will prevent limescale build-up and eliminate the issue of not being able to clean your shower glass back to a new state.

 

Of course, the best results with nano-coating are when it applied to a brand new shower screen. So, that the glass can seal and will not affected by limescale. 

 

At Ecotech Glass, we apply this coating free of charge on every frameless shower screen. We also provide a 10-year warranty on every nano-coated shower screen we have to offer. This special coating will keep the shower glass cleaner for longer.

 

How Does the Nano Coating Work?

 

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Enduroshield is the brand of nano-coating we choose to use in Melbourne and you can read more about it here.

 

This protective shield offers stain protection and will reduce your cleaning efforts by up to 90%. It invisible and lasts a long time and it applied by a simple process. All you need to do is to spray the liquid coating onto a new glass surface. If your shower glass clean- So, you can create a permanent bond with the glass.

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The invisible coating is only two molecules thick and it will protect the surface against any stains. And scratches while maintaining the integrity of the surface. The molecules will seal the porosity of the glass surface so that contaminants will not penetrate. This type of coating used in many modern building projects, including shopping centres, casinos, public amenities, residential homes, bus stations, commercial buildings, and more.

 

The coating can easily added to the surface and it takes minimal time and effort to install. It can use on a huge range of surfaces, from stainless steel appliances to shower screens to bathroom tiles to windscreens and side windows – and much more for shower glass clean.

 

This coating long-lasting and reliable and it has a 10-year warranty when it is applied to new glass. And a 3-year warranty when applied to stainless steel, existing glass surfaces, grout, and tiles. Over the years it will save you so many hours of scrubbing away at your shower, which is a huge relief!

 

frameless glass

3 Shower Door Handles for Your Glass Shower Screen

shower-door-handleYour glass shower door handle is your connection to your oasis of bliss. It is your way into your shower in the morning to awaken your senses and prepare you for the day ahead in the lovely city of Melbourne.

 

The place you head to for relief after a hard day, to relax and soothe away your cares, both physically and mentally.

 

What do you need to consider when you choose a handle for your shower screen; what are the most popular shower door handles or most successful designs and why?

 

Minimalist Pull Handle (SK40)

 

Glass shower

The most popular design for a shower door handle is a small, simple pull handle. Here at Economy Glass in Hoppers Crossing, we find that many people opt for a specific cylindrical design, which only protrudes about 43 mm.

 

Depending on how big your shower space is, a design that protrudes as little as possible means there is less chance of catching yourself as you shower.

 

If you have a frameless glass shower screen, a minimalist design provides a beautiful, seamless finish.

 

Our most popular shower door handles is smooth and modest, yet refined, with grooves to assist your grip with wet hands.

 

Slightly different from the cylinder design, a pull shower door handles in an angular rectangular shape is available which offers the same dimensions as the cylinder shape – the perfect size to locate in the shower.

 

Sourced from our local supplier, our most popular pull handle is available in polished chrome, satin chrome, and gold. Special finishes are available upon request.

 

The ‘H’ Shaped Marsh Handle

 

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The second most popular design for glass shower screen door handles is called the Marsh Handle.

 

Effectively an ‘H’ shape handle, the handle is a smooth horizontal bar, which sits on either side of the glass shower door.

 

This makes for easy grasping and opening. It is available in polished chrome, satin, chrome, and gold.

 

Standard sizes for the Marsh handle are 250 mm and 300 mm, but custom sizes are available upon request.

 

Although the total length of the handle is 250 or 300 mm, the part of the handle that you actually grasp is about 150 or 200 mm. The Marsh handle protrudes about 53 mm.

 

A similar design is available, whereby the bars of the ‘H’ are concave for a beautifully sophisticated finish.

 

The ‘D’ Shaped Pull shower door handles (SH250/SH300)

 

shower door handlesThird on the list of the most popular handles for a shower room door is a ‘D’ shaped pull handle.

 

Standard sizes include 250 mm and 300 mm, which is the size of the actual handle that you grasp. And custom sizes are also available. This door handle is available in polished chrome, satin chrome, and gold, with special finishes upon request. This door handle protrudes from the glass screen about 72 mm.

 

Other Designs

 

Other popular designs that work really well with frameless glass shower doors include:

 

  • Small round pull knobs which are similar to what you might typically find on a kitchen drawer.
  • Perfect for a smaller shower area or ensuite, a knob that lies flat against the shower screen door. And protrudes about 24 mm. The shape is more like a tighter ‘U’ shape.
  • A handle that is altogether more solid, like a small block.
  • A handle for your glass shower screen that is big enough from which to hang your towel.

 

Things to Keep in Mind when Choosing a shower door handles

 

  • For sliding shower doors, you will need a low-profile sliding door handle that doesn’t interfere with the movement of the glass screens.
  • Your handle will come complete with special washers and fixings to protect against glass-to-metal contact. If you are unsure about fitting it safely and correctly, ask the experts.
  • When choosing your shower screen door handle, consider how easy it will be to wipe around and keep clean.

 

Browse what is available to decide which door handle or knob will complement your bathroom and your shower the best, and what is most practical for the space you have available.

 

From sleek and uncomplicated to modern and contemporary. Economy Glass can advise you on the best shower door handles to suit your shower design.

 

frameless glass

How to Choose Shower Screen Hinges for Your Shower

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Have you considered the importance of the shower screen hinges you choose for your glass shower screen door?

 

When you think about hinges, you probably conjure up an image of a small, inconsequential, uninteresting item of hardware that you can hold in the palm of your hand.

 

Far from unimportant however, hinges can make or break a door!

 

Here’s a look at why, and what you need to consider when choosing the hinges for your glass shower screen door in Melbourne.

 

The Importance of Shower Screen Door Hinges

 

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Just as you wouldn’t install a cooker without a door, you shouldn’t consider installing a glass shower screen door without the right quality glass door hinges.

 

By way of example, if you installed a new cooker without a door, it would be completely unusable. If you made do with a poor-quality cooker-door instead, you would be putting yourself in danger, or you could cause extensive damage to yourself, your family, or your home.

 

At best, you might find you have wasted your money or find the cooker is inefficient and doesn’t cook the food properly.

 

It is a similar situation with shower door hinges.

 

Shower screen hinges clamp directly onto the glass and if you buy cheap hinges, the door is likely to drop over time, and could hit the tiles and explode.

 

Or, at best, you could end up with a door that doesn’t open and close properly, makes a noise when you use it, drags on the floor, is unusable or inefficient, or is too heavy for the hinges.

 

Now you understand why it is important to use quality hinges for your shower screen door, let’s consider how to choose the best hinges.

 

Things to Consider When Choosing Shower Screen Hinges

 

The right hinge for your shower screen door depends primarily on the weight and thickness of your glass.

 

You will also need to consider the size of your door width, whether you require bifold-opening door hinges, whether you want your shower door to be self-closing, and your chosen finish of hinge. 

 

Many different types of hinges are available, including the following:

  • Hinges for the thinnest safety glass, which is 6 mm.
  • Hinges for all other types of safety glass, including 8, 10, or 12 mm thickness.
  • Hinges for fix and swing shower door configurations over baths.
  • Square and bevelled bifold shower hinges.
  • Bifold hinges that fold back 180º.
  • Glass to glass hinges.
  • Door to wall hinges.
  • Hinges for maximum door widths of 550 mm, 700 mm, or 800 mm.
  • Hinges for maximum door weights of 20 kgs, 25 kgs, or 35 kgs.
  • 90º shower hinges.
  • Dual action hinges that open both inwards and outwards.
  • Self-closing shower screen hinges (from approximately 25º).
  • Custom angle hinges from a minimum of 125º.

 

Quality Door Hinges

 

shower-screen-hinges-western-suburbs-melbourneMany quality hinges are made from brass for premium quality.

 

They are usually available in polished chrome, satin chrome, and gold. With some hinges, special finishes are available by request to suit your specific decor requirements.

 

As well as superior quality, with a frameless glass shower screen, you will want a simple, minimalistic design for a seamless finish.

 

In Hoppers Crossing Economy Glass source hinges for our glass shower screen doors from a local. Family-run hardware supplier that has been around for over 140 years.

 

Their quality products and hard work ethic make them extremely strong players in the world of glass. And we are proud to deal with a company that holds family values so dear. We are confident that the hinges we use on our glass shower screens are the very best.

 

frameless glass