Window Materials & Assemblies: Glazing Materials
Insulated | Tinted | Reflective Coatings | Low-E Coatings | Surface Treatments | Laminated Glass
Surface Treatments
Frit Glass
Silk-screening ceramic frit onto glass enables the designer to use color and patterns on architectural glazing. Combined with clear or tinted glass substrates, as well as high-performance coatings, fritted glazing can help reduce solar heat gain. An opaque frit pattern can help control glare but translucent frit patterns may provide diffuse light that increases glare.
White ceramic frit has been the predominant color, however, dark ceramic frits, such as neutral gray, black, and silver metallic are increasingly utilized. These colors also help reduce reflection and offer alternative design options without adversely affecting performance. Frit location-or multiple frit combinations-within a glazing assembly affect such factors as solar absorption, shading coefficient, and appearance.
Acid-Etched and Sandblasted Glass
Acid etching gives a matte finish to glass panes, with the degree of finish being determined by the length of time the acid is in contact with the surface. By masking, patterns and pictures can be etched into the glass to give the architect design flexibility. An intense etching process roughens the glass surface, which diminishes transparency. Light passing through the glass is scattered to obscure view and diffuse light. Glass can also be sandblasted to give a similar matte finish. It should be noted that diffusing glass can sometimes increase glare since surface brightness is increased.