With the vast number of glazing options available, the question of which is the best to use is one that all framers ask themselves.

However, there is no definitive answer, which is never what you want to hear.

The best option will depend on a number of factors such as the budget, the weight restriction, if UV filtration is required and where the frame is going.  Nevertheless, there are properties of each to help inform your decision between the three.

Styrene glazing

Styrene glazing is the cheapest option out of the three. It is a lightweight product, which allows for low-cost transport and shipping.

Styrene is a shatter-resistant material, which is ideal for situations where safety needs to be considered, such as hospitals and primary schools.

Acrylic glazing

Acrylic is similar to Styrene in its lightweight and shatter-resistant properties, allowing for easy transport with the assurance of safety.

Acrylic, however, provides a ranging level of UV protection for your artwork, with some offering up to UV filtering of 99% to protect your work from fading. Acrylic will also stay cleaner for longer compared to styrene.

Glass glazing   

Glass is the traditional option for the glazing process. Specialist glass is comparable to acrylic in its UV protection. Specialist glass offers a number of ranges that provide UV protection in a variety of thicknesses and sizes. Specialist glass has anti-reflective properties within it, which allows for the customer to view the artwork better. 

However, unlike the acrylic and styrene, glass is much easier to clean, which can be achieved using a larger variety of glass cleaning products. The majority of glass is also more resistant to scratches, because of its make up of properties.

Within each of these glazing procedures, there is a range of options available, in a variety of sizes and thicknesses.

Each of the range offers different advantages, which can be seen through following the subsequent links below:

Styrene - https://www.wessexpictures.com/Styrene_Plastic_Glass.html

Acrylic – https://www.wessexpictures.com/Acrylic_Plastic_Glass.html

Glass – https://www.wessexpictures.com/glass_products.html

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to call one of our branches.