Is glass a sustainable building material?

In 2024 there really is no excuse for not considering the environmental impact of the purchases you make for your home. Whether you’re looking at decorative items, practical ones or even structural ones, sustainability should be part of your thought process – even if it isn’t the final deciding factor.

But making informed decisions can take a lot of research. Hours of weighing up your options. To save you sinking your time and effort into finding out the environmental cost of glass from multiple sources, we thought we’d put together a quick handy guide ourselves.

We’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of glass from a sustainability standpoint, as well as answer some commonly asked questions around the issue to help you decide if glass is an environmentally sound choice for you.

Why is glass a sustainable building material?

As a sweeping generalisation, it is reasonable to say that glass is sustainable. It is a great option not only for building but also for packaging materials. Here are a couple of reasons why it can have a lower environmental impact than many other materials used in the building industry.

It is incredibly strong

We talk a lot about the strength of glass alot here at KLG Glass, but have you ever thought about the environmental benefits this strength brings.

It’s strength means that glass has a long lifespan as a far as building materials go. 

When you replace windows, it’s usually because the frames are breaking of the seal on your double glazing is failing. The panes of glass only need replacing if they are forcibly broken. Left untouched, glass barely weakens or discolours – even over decades. In fact, high-quality glass walls  also have a lifespan of over 50 years.

To give you an idea of just how durable glass can be, think of all the decorative glass in historic buildings. Canterbury Cathedral contains a stained glass window that has been shown to date back to the medieval period. 

Of course, modern glass is not built to last this long but it still has an impressive lifespan.

It is infinitely recyclable

Another benefit of the strength of glass is that it’s considered ‘infinitely recyclable’. As it doesn’t degrade through normal use (or while being recycled) it can be recycled then reused indefinitely – theoretically forever. Recycled glass stays as strong as virgin glass too and has even more potential uses as it can be used as aggregate too.

It is 100% recyclable

As a material, glass is also entirely recyclable. This means plants do not have to filter out any glass waste as part of the recycling process. This makes recycling glass more straightforward and means it uses less energy to carry out. Less energy means a smaller carbon footprint – which is always a plus for the environment.

It uses minimal natural resources

Another benefit that comes with a material that is infinitely recyclable is that it uses fewer natural resources. Making virgin glass does use a lot of natural resources, but recycled glass uses barely any. This averages out to use fewer raw materials than wood, for example, which needs fresh material every time.

Are there environmental drawbacks to glass?

Glass is an impressively sustainable material if it’s used correctly. However, behaviour in the real world means that the question ‘Is glass a sustainable material?’ is slightly more nuanced.

If we want glass to be truly sustainable, we need to use an efficient manufacturing process . We also need dispose of it in a sustainable way (recycling it). If these aspects are ignored, the sustainability of glass is greatly reduced.

How sustainable is glass production?

A large part of a glass product’s environmental footprint depends on how it is made. 

To make glass sand, soda ash and limestone need to be melted at an incredibly high temperature. This is very energy-intensive and not particularly sustainable. It can also give out a high level of carbon emissions. 

However, steps can be taken to combat both of these. If you use cleaner energy in a more efficient way and reduce emissions, the benefits are clear – the issue is that not all manufacturers take these steps.

But even allowing for environmentally unsound production, glass does still benefit from how easy it is to recycle. This takes place at a much lower temperature so it uses a lot less energy – and creates fewer carbon emissions.

All these variables make it difficult to say definitively if glass production is fully sustainable. It can be done more or less sustainably depending on the choices you make, like which raw materials, processes and energy you use, while this sustainability is also increased if glass is kept in a permanent cycle of reuse after it has servied its purpose..

Can you recycle all glass?

Another flaw in the sustainability of glass is that we can’t recycle every type of glass. For example, mirrors have a reflective coating on them that stops them being – even once the coating is removed.

Other glass types, like window panes, can be recycled but need to be processed in a particular way. Window panes are often made of toughened glass – a glass is subjected to high heats to strengthen it. In turn, they need a much higher heat to be recycled than standard glass bottles or glass containers, so they can’t go into the same recycling bin as glass packaging. 

You can still recycle windows though, you just need to find a specialist glass recycling point – usually found at local recycling or waste disposal points. Unfortunately a lot of people don’t bother to seek these out, and use this as an excuse to simply chuck old windows into a skip. If you’re replacing your double glazed windows, it’s important to take them to your local waste collection site to get them recycled.

Does glass ever biodegrade?

Perhaps the biggest reason to recycle glass is what happens if you don’t. Research suggests it can take thousands of years – upto four thousand in fact – for glass to break down and biodegrade. That is actually around 8 times longer than plastic takes!

If dumped in landfill or discarded in soil, glass can also be very hazardous to people and wildlife. If it breaks, those sharp edges are a high risk until eroded and softened.

Both of these facts make it incredibly important to make sure you recycle any glass you’ve used. According to the BBC glass recycling rates in the UK sit at around 75%. Unless we increase this, it is hard to consider glass a truly sustainable material.

Is glass sustainable?

When it comes to the materials commonly used around the home, glass is easily one of the most sustainable for many reasons. Its strength, durability and attractive looks also make it incredibly versatile and there are plenty of places you can use it as more sustainable option in every room, including for a shower screen, a work surface and even a balustrade (bannister).

If you’d like to introduce more glass to your home, our high-quality products are built to last and bring eye-catching appeal, contact us today to find out more.

The DIY-filled days of spring and summer may be fading into memories, but in autumn and winter, a whole new set of decorating habits begins. Between the draped cobwebs and dancing ghouls of Halloween, and the trailing tinsel and twinkling fairy lights of Christmas, at some point this season you are probably going to give your home a holiday makeover. 

Of course, when it comes to these decorations you’re looking for temporary options. Short-term additions that will create a festive feel to suit the season. Even if you replace your spooky selection with a Christmas one, those decorations will be taken down in only a few weeks.

Temporary decorations can be difficult. You don’t want any holes, marks or dents to be left on display all year until your boxes come back out of the loft and you decorate again. 

And nowhere is more important to avoid damaging than your windows. Unlike wooden doors or walls, you can’t smear some putty or splash a new coat of paint onto glass panes. 

Accidentally scratch or chip your window pane and the surface is permanently scarred. Even worse it will be weakened, reducing the lifespan of your windows considerably.  Either way, it will set you on a short path to replacing your window which, in the case of a replacement double-glazed window unit, can be expensive.

But fear of damage shouldn’t stop you from adding a dash of holiday fun to your windows. We’ve already explored damage-free window decoration ideas for Christmas, so in this post we’re broadening our focus to methods that could be used for Halloween, Christmas or any other time of year. Read on to find out 5 methods you can use to decorate your windows temporarily, without worrying about what will happen when the decorations come down.

5 Ways to Decorate Your Windows Without Damaging Them

Specialist Window Decorations

The easiest way to temporarily decorate your window is to find a set of cute ‘window clings’. These are specifically designed to be used on windows and are made of a material that creates its own adhesive force – usually static electricity or a ‘gummy’ sticky surface.

The benefit of window clings is that they only lightly grip the surface of the glass. This means they won’t damage or mark the surface, but should still stay put until you remove them. They’re also adjustable, so if you decide you want to shift them around you can. As they create their own adhesive force you can even reuse them. 

Best of all, because the whole surface of the design is connected directly to the glass, they’ll look almost as good through the window as they do from the inside. They aren’t particularly costly either!

The downside is that you have limited design options to choose from. They are very popular so you will find plenty of shapes, colours and designs on offer – particularly during peak seasons like Halloween or Christmas. However, you won’t have complete creative freedom with your decorations and some people may find this limiting.

Glue dots

Self-adhesive glue dots or sticky dots are another great option for temporarily decorating your windows.

They are designed to leave no residue on the surface after they’re removed. Even on glass.

Another benefit is that they are quite small and transparent, so they won’t interfere with the look of your decorations. They’re not quite as good as ‘clings’ for that double-sided look, but they’re still good – you’ll probably not even notice it from a distance.

The main downside of sticky dots is how weak they are. They won’t grip glass as well as they do with rougher surfaces so they might drop heavier decorations. The glue will degrade over time too, so you won’t be able to reuse them or rely on them long-term. 

They’re fine for paper decorations or anything lightweight but don’t use them to hold up anything fragile.

Depending on the brand, they may leave a little residue behind too, though this should be easy to clean off. 

CommandTM Hooks/Strips

Much like glue dots, CommandTM strips are made to be easily removable if you decide you want to take your decorations down. They are also designed to work on all surfaces including glass, and are available in a variety of sizes – this gives you the freedom to use heavier decorations safely.

Using them on windows isn’t straightforward though. You will need to make sure to buy the correct type, as not all CommandTM strips can withstand direct sunlight. They may also struggle with dampness, so if you tend to get condensation on your windows that might be an issue (though you should stop condensation whenever possible anyway!).

However, get the relevant type of strips and you’ll have plenty of freedom to hang any decorative items you want, without worrying about weight restrictions. They’re great for winding garlands, fairy lights and other string-based decorations.

Suction Cups

Suction cups make a fantastic choice for decorating your windows. They are usually reasonably priced and are reusable so even more cost-effective. This also means they’re adjustable so you can reposition them as many times as you want – great for people who like to fiddle with their arrangements till they’re perfect.

Suction cups are also available in a range of sizes so you can find some that are suitable, whatever size you’re decorations are. They’re also versatile because you can add various attachments to them such as hooks, hoops or line to hold your decorations.

This makes them equally good for winding garlands on or dangling 3D decorations from. This range of size options means you can even use them to hang heavier items too.

One of the main drawbacks of suction cups is that they are quite big and bulky which can affect the look of your decorations. Even smaller ones will stick out slightly, and they won’t work particularly well with small or flat decorations.

Make Use of the Window Frame

Don’t want to touch the surface of your windows at all? You can still decorate by hanging your decorations from the window frame instead.

While we wouldn’t recommend hammering nails into the frame itself, small pins could be used in the brickwork around them. Even better, CommandTM strips will create a much stronger bond on brickwork than glass but will be just as easy to remove so they won’t cause damage there either.

The window sill is a safe, secure setting for any bigger, heavier or more delicate decorative items 

Finally, if you want to use dangling decorations like a curtain of fairy lights, a garland or even a lightweight wreath, you can always attach them to your curtain rail or pole and artfully trail them down.

What shouldn’t you use to decorate your windows?

If you want to make sure your decorations don’t make a permanent mark on your glass, make sure to stay away from blue tack, sellotape and glue. Although you will be able to remove them, all three are likely to leave some kind of residue that will be difficult to clean off.

You should never a strong adhesive like super glue or Gorilla GlueTM. These aren’t strong enough to make a permanent decoration on your window, but it is also impossible to completely clear the residue off at a later date when you remove the decorations.

How do you stick something to a window without damaging it?

If you’re looking to decorate your windows without damaging them there are a number of options open to you, it’s just a case of finding the one that works best for you. 

But if the worst does happen and your windows do end up getting damaged, you don’t need to worry about replacing your whole window and frame. Here at KLG Glass, we can make bespoke double-glazing units to fit inside an existing frame to help you keep waste (and costs) to a minimum. Speak to us today to find out more.

When it comes to glass, most people think of it as a functional material rather than a decorative one. Beyond the beauty of antique-stained glass and the beautiful colours it casts across a floor, people tend to choose glass for its practical properties rather than its visual ones.

But there is another way to add a design flourish to your home when you use glass. Sandblasting (or frosting) glass is a great way to turn a functional choice into a design-led one. It can add an unusual or even unique appeal to your home using an everyday item that might otherwise feel plain or dull.

In fact, a sandblast glass design is one of the most simple-but-effective ways to add a splash of creativity to your home.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the creative ways you can use sandblasted glass to add a flourish to your interiors. We’ll look at options for every room from your general living space through to your bathroom and even kitchen. 

But, as sandblasting can be a confusing term, we’ll start by explaining exactly what sandblasting is and how it’s carried out.

What is sandblasted glass?

Sandblasted glass is a decorative type of glass that uses two different textures or appearances on its surface to create a design.

The term ‘sandblasting’ refers to how the look is created. An abrasive material (originally sand) is ‘blasted’ as the surface of the glass. When it hits the glass it corrodes the surface, turning it milky white and reducing its transparency. This look is also known as ‘frosted glass’.

For more information on how sandblasting glass works take a look at our deep-dive blog post.  

A common misconception about this type of glass is that a whole pane has to have the same appearance. But actually, you can use this method to create shapes or patterns on the surface by leaving some of the glass clear, some white.

Using this type of glass opens up a whole world of design possibilities, letting you add interest and turn a functional object into a design feature.

How to use sandblasted glass to add to the look of your home

1. Turn your internal doors into a design feature

If you struggle with dark rooms, glazed internal doors are always a smart choice. They’ll help you increase light flow even when doors are shut, helping your home feel brighter and even bigger.
But a brighter space isn’t the only benefit glazed doors can bring. Sandblasting can add an intricate design to the glass so your doors closely match the design of your room.

You can echo a specific pattern from your soft furnishings or feature wallpaper, or go for something more abstract that just brings a little more visual interest to your door design. 

Stripes and geometric shapes sit perfectly in modern or minimalist designs, following the crisp lines that dominate these aesthetics, while floral patterns sit wonderfully in rustic interiors.

2. Make your home feel bigger and brighter without sacrificing privacy using glass partitions and room dividers

With a free flow of light and sightlines that make even small spaces feel airy, it’s easy to see why open-plan living is such a popular concept. But there is a price to pay for such spacious interior spaces, and that is privacy.

This is where frosted and translucent glass partitions come in. They can help you pull back some privacy by obscuring sightlines while still letting light flow. 

As well as being a practical compromise to a completely open space, a bespoke sandblasted glass room divider can make it a design contribution too. 

3. Add a unique twist to your kitchen splashbacks

A coloured, patterned or printed glass splashback can be a beautiful focal point in any kitchen. But another way to up its visual appeal is to use decorative sandblasted glass.

Again a great way to echo other patterns you’ve chosen, but in a more subtle and soft way if you want to make them too eye-catching. Especially if you don’t want attention drawn immediately to areas that tend to get dirty easily.

Of course, another benefit of a sandblast, semi-transparent surface is that the texture will help disguise dirt or streaks. This is particularly important in a splashback, which is impossible to keep clean all the time.

In fact, it’s a brilliant way to make a glass splashback a more forgiving kitchen choice.

4. Enhance your home’s kerb appeal

First impressions count, particularly when it comes to your home. Visitors and even passers-by will make unintentional judgements about your house, and even you, without even passing through the door and it’s important to make them positive. 

Important, but not exactly easy. Finding unusual or attractive design choices for the exterior of your home can be difficult – especially without a large front garden.

Adding frosted glass on your front door or even installing sidelights or a small glass porch can help you turn a dull door into a grand entrance.  It will even improve the look of your hallway by flooding it with natural light – fantastic for a room that can easily feel dark, narrow or cramped.

As sandblasting on glass doesn’t affect its stability, you don’t have to worry about it limiting the security or safety of your door either. In fact, it may actually improve it – obscuring the contents of your home will make potential intruders less likely to target your home.

5. Create a bathroom design statement with a frosted shower screen

When it comes to a room as small as a bathroom, every decision you make impacts the design. And while a novelty shower curtain might be cute at first, even something so small can start to grate when it clashes with a carefully crafted interior.

A sandblasted glass shower screen is understated enough to stand the tests of time, but also gives you space to show your design skills. Popular bathroom themes like botanical or nautical looks are easy to capture using sandblasting, while subtle abstract patterns can slip seamlessly into period properties or contemporary styles.

Best of all, glass is a perfect material match to the intense humidity of a bathroom. It’s easy to maintain and clean and it won’t rot, warp or grow mould. It will hold up to most harsh cleaning chemicals and still last for years.

6. Add some creative sparkle to your mirrors

Don’t rely on a fancy frame that’s difficult to clean and sucks up space to increase the visual appeal of your mirrors. A sandblasted border can help you add an extra design element while still keeping your mirror sleek and understated. 

In small spaces like bathrooms and hallways, a mirror will help increase natural light and even make your room feel bigger. With sandblasting, you can make sure your mirror is tailored to the look of your room without having to take up precious space with a clunky frame or creating a feeling of clutter.

Sandblasting can also help diffuse lights, so if you choose to backlight your mirror it can help soften harsh edges and make a warmer glow.

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Glass is often relegated to being a purely practical choice, but there are plenty of decorative choices you can make too. Sandblasted glass is a fully flexible choice, with plenty of functional benefits as well as practical ones.

Here at KLG Glass, we can include bespoke sandblasting with almost all of our glass products. So if you want glass that reflects your personality, contact us today to discuss your design plans.

 

Choosing the best type of kitchen splashback is a difficult decision. You need one that combines aesthetic appeal with design flexibility to match your kitchen. You need a wipe-clean surface that can hold up to the ravages of your kitchen and hold its good looks without endless maintenance.

It’s important to get the right material. In many cases, that material is glass. If you’re wondering whether that includes your kitchen, here are the questions you might need answering to show why glass is a great choice above other materials.

What glass is best for a splashback?

When it comes to a kitchen splashback, you need to use toughened glass. Standard, non-toughened glass can be fragile, prone to cracking, chipping and even shattering. Toughened glass (or tempered glass) is treated to make it strong and durable enough to withstand the stresses of your kitchen.

Toughened glass can easily take the knocks, catches and scratches that are an inevitable part of cooking. It is still lightweight enough to fix easily in place and stay secure, and obviously has all the good looks you’d expect of glass.

Can a glass splashback crack from heat?

Another benefit of toughened glass is that it won’t crack in the heat of your kitchen. Even if you have a gas hob, where the flames are mere inches from the wall, a glass kitchen splashback is heat resistant enough to endure.

The important thing is to make sure there is enough space between the hob and the glass splashback. If your hob is fitted too close to the splashback you risk shortening the life of your splashback as the rapid change when the heat from your stovetop starts then stops, will weaken it.

What size should a glass splashback be?

Any kitchen splashback should be at least the same width as your hob. This will protect your walls against any food splatters your cooking splashes out, and will also give your kitchen walls a balanced look.

However toughened glass is so strong, you can also choose a much larger size, the whole length of your work surface for example. This can be great visually if you go for a bright, bold colour and will also protect an even wider space from food splashes.

One brilliant thing about glass splashbacks is that they come in any size. Here at KLG Glass, our glass cutting service means that you can buy a beautiful and bespoke splashback that is the perfect size for your kitchen – whatever size that might be.

How thick should a glass splashback be?

On average a glass splashback should be 6mm thick. This makes the glass strong enough to stay resistant to heat, scratches and bumps while also being thin and lightweight enough to be fixed to the wall without needing too much effort or extra fixings.

If you prefer, it is possible to get thick glass splashbacks of around 8mm. However, the downside of thicker glass is that your kitchen splashback is heavier. It will need more secure fixings and you may be limited on how large you can make it without reinforcing your walls.

6mm glass splashbacks do offer the perfect combination of convenience, appearance and strength which is why this is the thickness we always recommend.

How long will a glass kitchen splashback last?

Glass splashbacks are so strong and durable, they will last for over a decade – potentially two.

Unlike tiled splashbacks that might chip or come loose, or acrylic kitchen splashbacks that could scratch or weaken, glass will take many years to weaken enough that it needs replacing.

It is more likely you will want to swap out your splashback for aesthetic reasons before practical ones. Though, an added benefit of glass splashbacks is that they will look just as good as the day they were installed for most of their life too. They are so easy to clean and maintain, you won’t need to worry about them looking old or tatty either.

Are glass splashback still in fashion?

The wonderful flexibility of glass kitchen splashbacks means they will never go out of style. Whether bright, bold primary colours or subtle earth tones are popular, you can match your kitchen splashback to the latest trend when you pick a glass one.

And if you need any more glass splashback design inspiration, check out our post to see just how flexible these kitchen splashbacks can be.

Are glass splashbacks worth it?

At the end of the day, the only person who can decide if glass is the right splashback material for your kitchen is you. Compared to other splashback materials, glass has plenty to recommend it, but if you need to know more you can always contact our team with any questions you still have.

 

The bathroom is almost always the smallest room in the house. In most homes, it’s the room you spend the least time in, so it makes sense to sacrifice space here and share it with bedrooms, kitchens or even hallways instead.

However, there is a difference between being a little short on space and having a dark tiny room sucks all the enjoyment out of bathing. No one  wants to get clean in a cramped space, however short the time you spend in there.

Luckily they are plenty of ways to make a small bathroom feel bigger without having to knock walls down to find more actual space. In this post, we’ll look at ways you can make a small bathroom feel bigger, from small design choices to bigger lifestyle-affecting changes.

First off, here are some general rules to remember when decorating a small bathroom.

How can I make my small bathroom look bigger without a window?

One of the best ways to make any small space feel bigger is to maximise the amount of natural light in it but that is pretty difficult if you have no windows to start with. And even if this is the case, you still need to fill the space with light and minimise the shadows. Use strategically-placed wall lights instead of one strong overhead light. It will increase the light available in the room but also avoid unflattering shadows shrinking your small bathroom back down.

What flooring is good for small bathrooms?

Tiles are always an excellent choice when it comes to bathroom floors. Being waterproof they can stand up to constant splashes and spills and they are robust enough to withstand the heavy traffic of such an often-used room. Make sure you get an anti-slip set and you’ve got an ideal floor for any bathroom.

With small bathrooms, it’s a great idea to go for gloss tiles. The reflective surface, particularly of plain tiles, will help bounce light back around the room increasing the sense of space.

When you’re short on square footage, the floor also makes a fantastic focal point. Add a bright block of colour or vivid pattern such as a chequerboard design to an otherwise neutral room and you can add personality without worrying about stealing any space or light that is already limited.

How do you make a small bathroom feel luxurious?

Just because your bathroom is small doesn’t mean you can’t bring a touch of luxury to it. The best way to do that will, as with all rooms, depend on the overall interior design and what aesthetic you’re going for but certain choices will always upgrade the general look.

Picking matte taps for your bath and sink, especially more decorative bronze and brass ones will add a more unusual look and a dash of luxury. Picking mirrors with decorative frames can also add a flash of design

Another way to up the luxury of your bathroom is using soft furnishings like towels, bath mats and blinds. A mountain of big fluffy towels, a large deep-pile bath mat and similar simple additions will give your bathroom that luxurious edge without taking up any precious space.

6 tips to make a cramped bathroom feel bigger

While the above suggestions can work for any interior design scheme, some specific suggestions depend on your choices. Bear the following tips in mind when designing your small bathroom and pick out the ones that work for you.

Don’t be afraid of colour

It is a commonly known rule of interior design that light colours are great for increasing space. This is true, but has bred an army of stark, white bathrooms that feel clinical rather calming.

Pale pastels make a softer alternative to a sharp white, as do creams and off-whites. These will help create a more tranquil, comfortable feeling bathroom while still keeping your sense of space.

Natural materials like wood, stone and marble can also help soften an otherwise harsh white palette.

Pick a frameless clear glass shower screen

A glass shower screen is an obvious choice when you’re sick of a damp clingy shower curtain sticking to your skin, but did you know they can make your tiny bathroom feel bigger and brighter too?

A shower curtain creates a obscure barrier in your bathroom, blocking light and shrinking the space. Even when it’s open, its a bright flash of colour that draws the eye, and disects the room, sectioning it into many small spaces rather than one flowing one.

Use a clear glass panel instead, and your sightlines will remain uninterrupted. This will help your bathroom look like a single larger space that includes your bath and shower space rather than separating them off. A frameless glass shower door is best to removed all the lines and barriers.

Get smart with storage

Storage is often overlooked in bathrooms, particularly when you’re already struggling for space.

Using wall-hung units and cabinets is an easy way to free up more floor space without sacrificing all-important bathroom furniture and storage space. Using wall space over your sink for cupboards or shelves is a particularly great way to save space.

Plump for bigger tiles

This one might feel counterintuitive but using bigger wall tiles in a smaller bathroom can increase the sense of space. Small tiles don’t immediately equal a squashed space feeling but you don’t have to default to tiny tiles either.

Large format tiles play with the proportions of the room and create large clear expanses of space. It will look cleaner and clearer too, while lots of small floor or wall tiles can create a sense of clutter that shrinks your small bathroom even more.

Make the most of your natural light with mirrors

Adding bathroom mirrors to your small bathroom is one of those clever design tricks that has many practical benefits.

Firstly, the reflected images help the room feel bigger, almost twice the size. A mirror will also reflect light effectively around the space, helping even a tiny space feel brighter – and thus bigger.

The bigger the mirror the better as well. Lots of tiny mirrors will just create clutter, and break the room up. Go for large mirrors – or even a mirrored wall – to get the most benefits from this classic design hack.

Ditch the tub

This is a contentious one because some people just prefer can’t live without with a freestanding bath. It’s non-negotiable. But if you can bear to be without, then replacing your bath with a floor-level shower will increase the feel of size in the room by a lot more than it saves in floor space.

Combine it with a clear glass shower door and you will increase the sense of flow in the room. This will feel like you’ve added a lot more square footage than you actually have.

Custom glass items for your home

Whether you’re looking for a bespoke mirror to make the most of your light, or a clear glass shower screen to break down the barriers, we’ve got glass products to help make your small bathroom feel bigger.

 

If you’re looking to buy bannisters or balustrades for your home, you’ll probably think of using wood first. If you’re looking for something to use outside, you might think of using metal too. But what about glass?

People often pick glass balustrades to suit a specific design idea or concept. However, they bring a wide range of practical advantages too. Here are 5 practical benefits of glass balustrades that show why they’re such a smart choice.

Stylish

This first reason is pretty obvious. Glass balustrades have a simple but sleek, stylish aesthetic appeal. They bring their own design edge to any home, turning a simple staircase into a focal point.

They are also incredibly versatile, thanks to their range of framing options and glass decoration. Frameless glass balustrades create a clean, minimalist look while the soft contrast of chrome and glass carries a modern but elegant feel. Even the choice between frosted or patterned glass will help tailor your rails to your interior design.

Simple to install

As they come in fewer, larger pieces, the process to install glass balustrades can be a lot easier than with a wood or metal bannister. This is a major benefit – even when you have your balustrade installed by a professional. As the job is quicker to carry out, it causes less disruption and costs less in labour time.

If the measurements for your glass railings are done correctly, you are unlikely to encounter any issues to slow the process down, so you can start enjoying the sleek look of your glass balustrade immediately.

Durable (and safe)

Don’t be fooled into thinking that glass is a delicate or fragile option when it comes to balustrade material.

In reality, glass ages slowly and is very strong. This gives glass balustrades excellent durability even when exposed to the elements on outdoor decking areas or balconies. And as long as you pick toughened glass or tempered safety glass, a glass balustrade is also an incredibly safe option.

It is a lot harder to damage a glass balustrade than one made of other materials. The surfaces of tempered glass and laminated glass are incredibly strong so it’s hard to scratch or damage accidentally unlike wood or metal.

Even better, unlike metal or wood balustrades you don’t need to worry about refinishing a glass railing during its lifetime. With other materials, regular maintenance with paint, varnish or wax is needed to keep them looking their best – and at their strongest. With glass, once your balustrades are installed you only need to worry about keeping them clean.

Easy to clean

Another major advantage that comes with the sleek, smooth surface of glass panels is how easy they are to clean. Grab some glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth and you’ll be able quickly and easily wipe your glass free of smears or dirt without having to delve into any deep crevices or corners.

This is particularly important for railings and balustrades. Internally these tend to be used in high-traffic areas, touched by many hands every day while external railings are obviously exposed to the elements.

In either case, grime can build up quickly so having a simple-to-clean surface is a definite bonus.

 

Stops chills (while still letting natural light flow)

Glass balustrades make a fantastic choice for a balcony or decking area because the glass creates a solid surface. This helps prevent drafts or chills from whipping around decking areas and protects against strong winds at heights.

Of course, the transparent nature of glass balustrades means that natural light will still flow freely so to let you enjoy sun spots on warm days.

If you want to embrace these practical benefits in your home, KLG Glass offer high-quality, made-to-measure glass balustrades in bespoke designs. Browse our range to find out more.

 

It goes without saying that we love glass here at KLG Rutland. We love helping households get the most from their glass windows and doors, not just in terms of aesthetics but in terms of energy savings, thermal efficiency, sound insulation, and glare reduction. But we also love to help households to explore some of the less conventional ways in which glass can be used in their household decor. 

Glass can be a wonderful feature in all kinds of design concepts, whether your tastes lean towards traditional, rustic, or farmhouse aesthetics or you prefer something a little more contemporary or industrial. From innovative glass shelving solutions in the office or bathroom to glass kitchen splashbacks, there’s no shortage of ways in which this versatile material can help beautify your home. 

But did you know that glass is also the perfect medium for wall art? We often rely on glass to protect our framed wall prints, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. This post is dedicated to the wonderful wall decorations that can be achieved with glass.

What are the different styles and types of glass wall art available?

Glass is one of the most versatile materials out there, capable of creating a huge variety of looks and effects. Glass is a great choice for wall art because it captures, reflects and defuses the light within your home beautifully, allowing artists to create a bewitching range of effects for every home. 

• Stained glass- Stained glass is made by adding different metal oxides to the molten glass to create different colours. Multicoloured glass segments are encased in a metal frame and separated by strips of lead or other pliable materials.
• Fused glass- Fused glass (also known as warm glass or kiln-fused glass) uses glass pieces that have been melted and fused together in a kiln to create distinctive multicoloured or three-dimensional pieces.
• Metal and glass- Metal is often used to support glass elements to create bold and beautiful shapes for wall art. However, metal can also create a compelling visual juxtaposition with a fascinating interplay between the solid and the translucent.
• Mosaic glass- Mosaic wall art uses small glass pieces embedded in a ceramic or polymer backing and arranged to form stunning shapes and images. As the pieces catch the light they can create a spellbinding shimmering effect.
• Recycled glass- Recycled glass wall art uses repurposed post-consumer glass that has been altered by staining, melting, cutting or fusing to create wall art that is as sustainable as it is breathtaking.
• Mirrored glass- Mirrored glass typically uses a melange of mirrored glass pieces of different sizes and shapes to reflect surrounding light and images to create uniquely beautiful visual effects.
• Etched glass- A range of techniques from laser etching to sandblasting or acid etching can be used to imbue the glass with stunning shapes and images that reflect the light with a slightly spectral sheen.
• Bevelled glass- Bevelled glass is created by grinding and polishing the surface so that it is no longer flat. This distorts the reflected properties of the glass for some beautiful and challenging optics.

How can homeowners choose the best glass wall art option for their space and style?

There’s an incredible range of glass wall art available. With such incredible variety from an extraordinary range of talented artists, it can be difficult to choose the right piece for your home. Whether you have a traditional or modern home aesthetic, we have some tips to help you find the perfect glass wall art option for you.

When shopping for glass wall art, you should consider:

The function of the space

Each room has a slightly different set of needs and practical considerations. For instance, a lounge or dining room might benefit from a statement piece that’s designed to provoke conversation. However, a bathroom or kitchen might benefit from something more modest and discreet, especially given the presence of steam, smoke, and airborne oil deposits.  

The design and decor of the space

Some interior design concepts lend themselves to different types of glass wall art. In a chic urban apartment with a contemporary feel, a challenging piece of mirrored wall art or bold fused glass piece might add an intriguing sense of depth and dimension when juxtaposed with plain white walls. Alternatively, stained glass and mosaics can lend a greater sense of heritage to cottage core, farmhouse or traditional aesthetics. 

The function of the wall art

Are you looking for a bold statement piece to wow guests at dinner parties? Or do you want something soothing to look at as you drift to sleep at night? It helps for your glass wall art to have an intended function in order to choose the best piece for your space.

Size and placement 

Finally, the intended size and placement of your piece will also help to guide your decision. Smaller spaces, for instance, might benefit from a mirrored glass piece or the elegant simplicity of etched glass wall art. In larger spaces with a greater abundance of usable wall space, however, might benefit more from a large fused glass piece that uses different colours and textures to create three-dimensional or overlapping effects.

What are some creative ways to use colour, pattern, and texture in glass wall art?

The great thing about glass is that it can be infused, imprinted, and crafted into all kinds of colours, textures, and ornate patterns. So feel free to experiment with these to complement and contrast with the surrounding furniture, decor, and architectural features. For instance, a glass and wrought iron piece is a stunning addition to a country house or repurposed barn with smooth white walls and exposed timber ceiling beams. 

Likewise, a bold recycled piece can lend a cool factor to a newly developed semi-detached house or loft-style apartment. 

How can glass wall art be incorporated into traditional or modern home designs?

While there is often some overlap (such as in farmhouse or industrial interior design concepts), styles tend to veer more towards either the modern or the traditional. Modern or contemporary styles tend to favour clean lines, minimalism, and elegant simplicity. Traditional homes may incorporate older production techniques and more ornate designs. 

As such, stained glass, glass and metalwork, or mosaic pieces are generally a good fit for traditional homes. They are not only time-honoured techniques, but they create a classic look that is ageless yet full of history and antiquity. 

On the other hand, a more contemporary design concept may use mirrored glass to create a greater sense of light and space that works well with minimalistic interiors. 

Both traditional and modern homes can benefit equally from incorporating glass wall art into their interior design. The piece just needs to be carefully considered, chosen and placed in accordance with its intended setting.

How can glass wall art be customised or personalised for a unique touch?

Looking for truly personal to decorate your home? One of the wonderful things about glass wall art is that it can be customised in creative and unique ways. Glass wall art can be etched with specific patterns or images. It can incorporate a wide range of colours, depending on your preference and the surrounding design concept. It can be personalised with unique laser engravings or inscriptions. 

A little customisation can make a rare piece into a piece that’s truly one of a kind. 

What are some practical considerations for hanging and maintaining glass wall art?

When choosing glass wall art, it’s important to balance the practical with the creative. The glass used in most wall art, while fairly resilient, is much less toughened than the glass that’s used for your windows and doors. As such, it’s essential to ensure proper hanging and installation. Ensure that the piece is firmly secured at multiple points of contact on the wall. Edge grip stand-off mounts can be used to securely hang glass art seemingly invisibly while providing a firm hold. 

Glass wall art can accrue dust and dirt over time, so it’s important to ensure that your art is cleaned or wiped down fairly regularly to preserve its beauty for the long haul. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners. A dash of spirit vinegar diluted in water is usually all that is required to make your glass wall art sparkle. Wipe with a soft microfibre cloth to avoid dulling the glass with tiny scratches, and consider using an electrostatic duster to remove dust from elaborate three-dimensional art which may have nooks and crannies where dust can accumulate. 

When it comes to wall art, glass adds a touch of class

As we can see, glass is a medium for all art that combines striking beauty with unmatched versatility. If you’re looking for something truly unique, there’s no better choice. What’s more, because glass wall art encompasses so many different styles and techniques, there’s a piece for traditional homes, modern homes, and every type of interior design. 

Shelves are more than just a way to store your belongings. They’re a showcase for your treasured possessions. They’re a means of celebrating your framed pictures, books, flowers and vases. They’re a great way to help you to make your home look larger by making use of your vertical space, and a valuable ally in the battle against clutter. Of course, shelving can be made from all kinds of materials from oak to bamboo to wrought iron. But too few of us have stopped to consider the potential benefits of glass shelving. 

Strong, affordable and scratch-resistant, glass can be used for all kinds of shelving solutions from floating open shelving to wall-mounted built-in storage units. It’s even easy to clean and maintain so it will continue to look terrific for years to come with very little upkeep. 

What’s more, because glass is so incredibly versatile, it will look equally at home in both contemporary and traditional interiors. Let’s take a look at 10 breathtaking glass shelving ideas for all kinds of homes. 

Idea 1: Use floating glass shelves for a sleek, modern look

Floating glass shelves create a wonderfully minimalist look, displaying items without calling attention to themselves. They make the items on them look as if they are quite literally floating in the air.

To help a glass shelf pull off this illusion, floating shelves need hidden wall mountings. This creates a stylishly clean and contemporary look. As the brackets and mounts are so small, floating glass shelves use up very little space. This creates plenty of opportunities to vary the spacings and groupings of the shelves.

Using different sizes and depths of glass wall shelves is a great way to add interest to your space while also placing added emphasis on whatever you want to put on display. Floating shelves can also look incredible in the bathroom, creating a spa-like effect and preventing things like towels, washcloths and toiletries from creating clutter. 

Idea 2: Incorporate built-in glass shelving for a custom look

When you’re installing a new bathroom, kitchen, bedroom or office, it’s easy to incorporate built-in glass shelving into whatever units you wish to install. This helps to ensure that your storage solutions fit elegantly and unobtrusively into your design concept, helping to create a cohesive look.

That’s not to say, of course, that you can’t have some fun with your glass shelf space. You can customise your look by using different colours, finishes and fittings to unify your look and create storage solutions that are both beautiful and practical.

Idea 3: Add a touch of glamour with mirrored glass shelves

Of course, one of the most common uses for glass in interior design is the humble mirror. Mirrored glass can add a touch of magic to your shelves and display space. Mirror and open shelving arranged into beautiful geometric shapes create a glamorous, Hollywood Regency-style aesthetic. Ornate decorative frames can further enhance the feeling of glamour and elegance. What’s more, mirrored shelving can reflect the ambient light around it as well as reflect the image of its surroundings. This can help to create an illusion of space and prevent your walls from looking too busy. 

Idea 4: Create a rustic or industrial look with metal and glass shelves

Glass and metal often get along very well together in all kinds of interior design concepts. Wrought iron, steel, bronze, and other metals have the strength and stability to support the tempered glass shelving while subtly complementing the aesthetic of the glass itself. The solidity of the metal frames and supports combined with the elegance and simplicity of the glass makes for a visually striking juxtaposition. 

This lends itself to a surprisingly diverse range of aesthetics from an ultra-modern industrial design concept to a more rustic farmhouse look that is perfect for bathrooms and bedrooms. 

Idea 5: Use glass shelves to create a cohesive look with other elements in the room

One of the many great things about glass shelving is its ability to blend seamlessly into virtually any design concept due to its sheer versatility. Because it can be made into all kinds of shapes, with a huge range of colours and finishes, it can be used to create a seamless match with its surroundings. As such, it can be rendered to fit in with surrounding design elements like cabinets, countertops, wardrobes, drawers, and bookcases. 

This helps to create a unified and cohesive look and tie together the surrounding design elements in a satisfying and aesthetically pleasing way. 

Idea 6: Go for a minimalist look with clear glass shelves

While glass can be made and printed with all kinds of colours, finishes and textures, there are many who prefer to celebrate the elegance of clear glass. Especially those whose tastes veer towards the contemporary and minimalist.

Clear glass fits seamlessly into all kinds of design aesthetics, and when combined with smaller and more discreet frames and wall mountings can look practically invisible. This can be a great way to draw the eye’s attention to other design elements within the space, or accentuate the beauty of whatever you choose to display on your glass shelving.

Idea 7: Add a touch of whimsy with coloured or patterned glass shelves

Neutral colour palettes can give your home’s interiors a calming and minimalist appearance. However, in such a space, a splash of bold colour or dramatic pattern can add a sense of visual punctuation, lending life and fun to the design concept.

Glass shelves can be made in a range of colours and printed with all sorts of patterns for a more dazzling effect that elevates the look of whatever you choose to store on your shelves. Bent glass shelves are a visually striking and popular choice, adding a sloping effect to the storage solution that adds a dash of whimsy and fun. 

Some may even use resin to preserve dried flowers on the surface of the glass, or use coloured LEDs to lend an ethereal and dazzling quality to their storage.

Idea 8: Use glass shelves to display collections or sentimental items

Glass shelving can either add a wow factor to your storage or it can be an ultra-discreet way to showcase the things that matter the most to you, enabling them to speak for themselves as eloquently as possible. 

They can draw the eye to the intricate beauty of collectables, accentuate the joy of a family photo, add a stately air to beloved books, or create a reverential place for family heirlooms to rest. 

Idea 9: Utilise glass shelves in a small space to make the most of limited storage

Slender, discreet, and virtually invisible, glass shelving is the perfect storage medium to use when usable space is limited. What’s more, because glass reflects and amplifies ambient light, it can prevent shadows from making the shelving area feel cramped, dark or gloomy.

The bathroom and kitchen are two areas where compact shelving units can be employed to reduce clutter by maximising storage space, even when there is only a little wall space available. 

Idea 10: Use glass shelves to add an outdoor element to an indoor space

We all know that proximity to plants, flowers and other natural materials can help us feel calmer, happier and more relaxed at home. Elements of nature can beautify our living space while helping us to feel a greater sense of equilibrium with the world around us. 

Combining glass shelving with a natural wooden frame or encasement can create a beautiful and stylish juxtaposition, while glass shelving units with terrarium-like designs can be a great space in which to store houseplants and succulents. They can look great with creepers cascading from them, and refract the light reflected from crystals, geodes and other minerals beautifully. 

Glass always adds a touch of class

There are few materials as sturdy, versatile, low-maintenance and elegantly beautiful as glass. While it may not be the most obvious way to showcase your stored items, we can see it as an excellent choice where space is limited, where minimalist design concepts are preferred, or where space and light come at a premium. Whether they’re installed in a traditional or contemporary setting, glass shelves have the potential to subtly enhance and elevate your storage solutions. 

Thousands of households all over the UK currently find themselves struggling with the rising cost of energy. A perfect storm of a global pandemic, geopolitical conflict and strained international relations have conspired to push the wholesale cost of gas to astronomical highs. So, even if your household has a 100% renewable electricity tariff, the rising cost of gas still affects your energy prices_, as even the cost of renewables is linked to gas prices. The turn of the decade has seen the energy market transform in a very short space of time, with many suppliers going bust and the energy watchdog, Ofgem, raising its energy price cap, from £1,042 per year at the end of 2020 to £2,800 per year for the winter of 2022/2023. While there is government support available for households, many are still feeling the pinch when their energy bills arrive. The good news is that your double glazing could be your fiercest ally in the battle against sky-high energy bills. Let’s take a look at how double glazing can help households to deal with the energy price increase.

Prevent Warm Air From Escaping

Did you know that around 18% of your home’s heat loss occurs through its windows? When windows lose an excess of heat, we have no choice but to crank up the thermostat, thereby increasing our energy costs even more. More thermally efficient double-glazed windows and doors prevent warm air from escaping out of your home. As well as boasting two panes of glass, double-glazed windows contain a layer of insulating gas. This keeps the cold air outside where it belongs, while also ensuring that the warm air you are paying for remains in your home.

Absorbs And Traps Heat Energy From The Sun

In the wake of the pandemic, more and more of us are working remotely from home on a part-time or full-time basis. This may require a greater reliance on your home’s heating to keep you warm and comfortable while you work. Which, in turn, may cause your energy bills to rise. The great thing about thermally-efficient double-glazed windows is that they trap the free heat energy that floods into your home from the sun. The short-wave radiation from the sun is absorbed by the glass from the outside and re-radiated from the inside as long-wave infrared, which cannot escape back out through the glass. This greenhouse effect prevents households from relying on their central gas heating, electric wall heaters, or storage heaters throughout the day.

Keeps Your Home Cool in Summer

With winter on the way, many households are thinking about how they can stay warm. However, double glazing doesn’t just help to save energy during cold weather. They can also be a saving grace during the warm summer months. During the warm months, double glazing can actually prevent an excess of heat transference from the outside of the glass to the inside. So, you can keep your home relatively cool when the sun is bright and shining. This means that you spend far less on cooling your home artificially with electric fans or air conditioning units. The unfortunate truth is that the current energy price hike is likely to extend far beyond the coming winter. Therefore, thermally-efficient double-glazed windows can help you to make your energy bills more manageable all year round.

May Even Increase Your Property’s Value

As we can see, double-glazed windows benefit your home all year round. Given that most double-glazed window units last for anything between 20 and 35 years, households can enjoy those cost-saving benefits in the long term. With that in mind, it’s easy to see why double glazing can even help if you decide to move by potentially adding to the resale value of your property. It’s estimated that installing double glazing in your home could add up to 10% to its resale value. Furthermore, it makes your property more desirable in a competitive market. Every home that has been put on the market requires an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) that helps prospective buyers to understand how energy-efficient the property is. Properties are rated from A to G for both their energy efficiency and carbon impact rating. The higher the letter grade, the more eco-friendly a property is. Properties with higher EPCs are naturally more appealing to prospective buyers, whether they’re looking for a home or an investment property.

I Already Have Double Glazed Windows. Should I Consider Replacing Them?

If you already have double-glazed windows, there’s a chance that they may not be working as hard on your behalf as they could be. Especially if they are getting on in years. With time and wear, the seal that keeps the insulating gas between the layers of glass in your windows can deteriorate. When this happens, the gas may leak out of your window units. Don’t worry, the gas is perfectly breathable and harmless. However, without the gas present in your windows, heat may be allowed to transfer more readily inside and outside. While you will still notice a marginal improvement when compared to single-glazed windows, an upgrade now could save you more on your energy bills in the long term. In these economically tumultuous times, we understand that many householders may be nervous about a significant investment like new double-glazed windows. Fortunately, there are options that can help them to ameliorate the costs. For instance, did you know that you can replace the glass in your windows without having to replace the whole unit? This can bring the cost down significantly from around £150 and over £600+ per window to around £55-£150 per window. Still not sure if improving your double glazing will help you to navigate the energy price increase? Why not have a chat with our team? We’ll help you to find the most efficient and cost-effective options for your home.

High-quality, modern windows enjoy a long lifespan that lasts decades. However, if you’re windows are old, they may not have the same build quality and strength or provide the aesthetic feel you would like, especially when compared to newer models.

So, you need to know when you should replace them, here are 5 key tell-tale signs that your windows are no longer functioning to their best and therefore would benefit from a replacement

They Are Sticking When You Open Or Close Them

One very obvious sign your windows are ready to be replaced is if they no longer open or close smoothly. There are likely to be a few reasons this can happen, the first being that the handle or opening mechanism is beginning to fail. 

Another can be that the timber frames may have swollen in size. If water gets into timber frames they will start to warp and expand. This can be avoided by regular maintenance of your windows. However, once the timber is swollen it can be almost impossible to return it to normal and a replacement will be the best solution.

Similarly, with extreme temperatures, uPVC windows will also expand and contract. Over the years this can affect the size or shape of the frames, making them difficult to use. Replacing them with Aluminium windows, with robust frames will help them last longer against the elements.

Condensation Forms Between The Panes

Double-glazed windows are made of two thin layers of glass sandwiched together with gas between them. If moisture gets in between the panes, clouding or condensation can start to form, in high volumes this can be problematic.

Some form of condensation is normal and can be particularly visible during cold weather when the heating is on high. If you do notice a lot of condensation, between the panes rather than on them,  this is a key indicator that the window seals are failing. Unfortunately, replacing windows is the only answer. 

More Notable Cold Drafts

As your windows age, they begin to deteriorate and this does mean they might begin to let in more noticeable cold drafts. 

There could be several reasons for this, including a break in the frame, which is more common with wooden frames. The seals could also be broken as they are allowing air to pass through, there might also be an issue with the fit.

Another sign that your seals are no longer working is if you start to notice puddles or leaks on your window sill.

Your Home Feels Colder Than Usual

A sure-fire sign that your windows need checking or potentially replacing is if you find the house is colder than usual or you are having to put the heating on high more. 

This is something that can be noticed over time, as the seal on your windows may be keeping any drafts at bay. When the insulating gas between the panes is compromised, you will like begin to notice the house feeling colder, or when the heating is switched in, you will feel as though the hot air is escaping. 

As the cost of energy bills are soaring enough already and having inefficient windows will only add to this problem. 

They’re No Longer Soundproof

A key function of windows, aside from protecting your home from the elements, is soundproofing. If you feel as though you can hear all the sounds from outside, inside your home, then the chances are your windows are not soundproofing the same way anymore. A common issue is when the insulating gas between the panes is no longer there, it cannot be the barrier to protect you from the noise.

You Only Have Single Glazing

When it was initially introduced, double-glazed windows were an expensive investment, however, with modern technology, the cost has reduced and we are also seeing triple-glazing windows!

Single-glazing windows are not known to be good for soundproofing and insulation. If the idea of wasting money on expensive central heating that will quickly escape your home isn’t enough to spur you to replace your windows, then do it for the planet! 

At KLG Glass, we offer a complete range of glass products including double-glazed windows.