Types Of Architectural Glass

Architectural glass can make an ordinary building into something marvelous. For centuries, this type of glass has been used to decorate plain brick and mortar buildings. One type of glass that was used in the early construction of huge buildings, was leaded stained glass. This type of glass was used in various ways, including communicating to those who were unable to read or write. Various types exist, and if one knows these types, then an individual can understand more about how buildings were turned into works of art.

One of the earliest types of architectural glass that was used, is called the crown glass method. According to Wikipedia.org, "hot blown glass was cut open opposite the pipe, then rapidly spun on a table before it could cool. Centrifugal force forced the hot globe of glass into a round, flat sheet. The sheet would then be broken off the pipe and trimmed to form a rectangular window to fit into a frame." In the center of the crown glass a sort of bullseye effect would remain and this would create optical illusions. Many of the Gothic stained glass art that is seen in cathedrals, such as Canterbury, used this method to produce masterpieces that have spanned time. The method was expensive to produce, and was eventually replaced with other methods of glass work. However, when restoration is done to very old glass windows, this is often the method that is used.

Various types of architectural glass can be found in today’s building markets. For those who want a rolled look, one may decide to use the figure rolled glass. The glass has suspended bubbles within itself. Another unique type is the laminated variety. This glass is mainly used for safety purposes since it is almost impossible to shatter. Many high end stores and certain celebrities have found this to be a great addition to the windows of their buildings and homes, respectively.

Architectural glass is one of the many ways that various buildings are made into works of art. No matter if one is using amazing stain glass patterns to highlight a scene of if they are using figure rolled glass for unique effects, the results are the same. Glass is not only beautiful for artistic statements, but is also wonderful for the safety that it offers. For a look at some amazing samples, visit architecturalglassinc.com.