Advanced Glass, Standards & Quality
Decorative and smart glass, industry standards, quality assurance, heat soak testing, mock-ups, and water testing.
- Describe decorative glass types including frit, etched, sandblasted, and back-painted
- Explain electrochromic, self-cleaning, and bird-safe glass technologies
- Identify channel glass and curved glass applications
- State key industry standards for glass and glazing
- Describe quality assurance procedures including heat soak testing and water testing
Leçon 1
Decorative Glass - Frit, Etched, Sandblasted & Back-Painted
Ceramic Frit Glass
Ceramic frit is a pattern of ceramic paint fired onto the glass surface during tempering. The frit becomes permanently fused to the glass at high temperature. Common applications:
- Spandrel glass opacification
- Bird-safe patterns to reduce bird strikes
- Solar shading patterns to reduce heat gain
- Decorative patterns for architectural effect
Etched Glass
Process: Acid or chemical etching of surface
Appearance: Frosted, translucent
Durability: Permanent, surface level
Use: Privacy, decorative partitions
Sandblasted Glass
Process: Abrasive media blasted at surface
Appearance: Frosted, can create patterns
Durability: Permanent but can show fingerprints
Use: Decorative, privacy, signage
Back-Painted Glass
Back-painted glass (also called lacquered glass) has an opaque paint coating applied to the back surface. It provides a uniform color finish and is used for:
- Wall cladding and feature panels
- Kitchen splashbacks
- Furniture and shelving
- Spandrel applications (when tempered)
Heat Compatibility
Back-painted glass near heat sources (stovetops, radiators) must use heat-resistant paint and tempered glass. Standard paint can discolor or delaminate from heat exposure.
Ceramic frit is fired onto glass during tempering for permanent patterns. Etched and sandblasted glass provide frosted effects for privacy. Back-painted glass provides uniform color for wall cladding and splashbacks - use tempered glass near heat sources.