Blog Post

6 Stunning Uses for Custom Glass in Your Home

  • By Admin
  • •
  • 01 Feb, 2018
  • •

You probably already know the benefits of using glass in your bathroom, such as providing a reflective surface that makes the room feel brighter. However, you can enjoy the benefits of custom glass in other rooms as well - and even as part of your outdoor lifestyle. Below are six ideas for how custom glass can add beauty to your home.

1. Kitchen Backsplash

Part of what makes glass so useful in the bathroom is that's it's naturally stain and water resistant, and it's easy to clean. These qualities make glass ideal for the kitchen too.

You've likely seen cabinet doors with glass panes. However, you can also use glass as part of a custom backsplash. For example, Better Homes and Gardens recommends painting the back of a glass panel for a shiny, stain-resistant backsplash. You could also hang a picture and use the glass panel to protect it. A stained glass backsplash can add both color and texture.

2. Tabletops

Custom-cut glass can be used one of two ways for a tabletop. For example, you could have a glass panel cut to protect the surface of a wood table.

Conversely, you can omit some or all of the wood. For instance, if you want a modern table, you could choose a minimalistic pedestal and have the contractors cut a heavy-grade piece of glass as the tabletop. A big advantage of this construction is the contractors can cut the glass into any shape you like.

3. Custom Shelving

A similar application for custom-cut glass is for shelving. You could refurbish an old china cabinet by replacing wood shelves with glass. You can also use glass panels in place of wood in bookcases or built-in wall shelves.

Glass can be attached to the wall with very discreet hardware so that it appears to float on the wall. You can use this installation for a modern update on wall shelves. For example, imagine staggering the shelves across one wall and connecting them with vertical glass panels. This would create a modern work of art that also functions as shelving.

4. Internal Window

An internal window could provide another modern update in your house. For example, you could have a stationary window installed above your kitchen sink to look into the next room. The glass offers the benefit of reflecting light back into your kitchen while also providing a connection between the two rooms.

On the other end of the spectrum, internal windows have historical roots as well. Many older homes feature transom windows above doors. The transom is often ornate, featuring leaded glass and/or multiple panes. Old- style transom windows actually opened to promote ventilation between the rooms. You could choose this application or keep them stationary.

5. Room Dividers

An application for heavy-duty glass in the bathroom is as a divider, say between the toilet room and the rest of the space. You can utilize this application in other areas of the home as well. For example, a glass wall can provide the dividing line between a home office and the rest of a family room.

With glass room dividers, you have two options. One option is transparent glass. However, opaque glass is more common as a divider. The glass panel's opacity can come from etching and frosting, or you can choose a textured glass. Textured glass features a skin that creates an effect, such as wavy lines or even patterns.

6. Deck Railing or Wall

Custom glass doesn't only have uses inside your house. You can take the glass outside to your deck, too.

If you live in a windy area, a tempered glass wall can provide a windbreak on your deck without impeding the view. Likewise, tempered glass railings can work the same way. As a boon, tempered glass railings give your deck a contemporary feel.

Enjoy the benefits of glass all over your house. When you're ready to add custom glass to your décor, consult Nor Sac Glass Company.

3 Reasons Your Home Needs New Windows

By Admin • January 3, 2020
New windows may give your home an updated look, but appearance isn't the only reason to update. Read our blog to learn about three other important reasons.

Reduce Your Energy Use With These Three Window Options

By Admin • October 18, 2019
If it's time to consider new windows, choose from among a few energy-efficient options that will also help regulate the temperature inside your home.

4 Steps to a Chic Modern Bathroom

By Admin • July 23, 2019
If you are looking for more modern bathroom ideas, read this blog for four steps you can take during your remodel to give your bathroom a modern appeal.

5 Ways a Framed Glass Enclosure Adds Value to Your Bathroom Remodel

By Admin • May 30, 2019
A bathroom remodel project is a large investment. Discover why a framed glass shower enclosure offers a good return on investment.

Improve Restaurant Success With a High-Quality Glass Storefront

By Admin • March 22, 2019
Make your new restaurant stand out from older establishments. Learn how a high-quality glass storefront can improve the success of your new business.

Specialty Glass: Get Creative With a Patterned Glass Shower Enclosure

By Admin • January 23, 2019
One trend in shower design is using textured or patterned glass. Learn some creative ways you can incorporate patterned glass into your shower enclosure.

Use Customized Glass and Mirrors in Your Restaurant Bathroom

By Admin • November 21, 2018

Restaurant patrons' opinions continue to be formed even when they're in the bathroom. They base their opinion on more than the cleanliness. The overall design of the bathroom will create an impression that sticks to their opinion of your brand.

Glass and mirrors feature heavily in any bathroom design. Use custom glass and mirrors to promote your restaurant's brand even in the bathroom.

Imprint Your Logo on Mirrors or Glass
Perhaps the most obvious method for promoting your restaurant's brand in the bathroom is with strategic placement of your logo. In this case, you might consider ordering an oversized mirror with your logo imprinted discreetly across the top. You can also have your logo imprinted onto glass and hang it up as an art installation.

Protect Decorative Paint With Customized Glass
One of the new trends in restaurant design is to create wow factor in the bathroom. Patrons are more likely to remember your restaurant if something like the bathroom caught their attention.

One way you can achieve a stunning bathroom is with decorative paint. For example, consider having your logo painted onto the wall. Conversely, you can have a mural painted onto your wall, or you could try something more abstract. The key is to set the artwork apart by protecting the paint with glass. The glass serves as a deconstructed frame for your artwork.

Design Vanity Mirrors and Lighting Together
While customers aren't going to engage in as much grooming in a restaurant bathroom as they do at home, they still like to check their reflection and perhaps primp. Naturally, they need decent lighting to that end. Design your above-sink mirrors to work with task lighting. Generally, sidelights are more flattering than illumination from above.

Choose your lights first and your mirrors second. To create a sense of connection between the lights and the mirror, repeat an element. For instance, you can echo the shape of a wall sconce in the mirror.

Choose Mirror Frames
Many restaurants feature unframed mirrors, which is fine for a contemporary aesthetic. However, if you want to add old-world glam to your restaurant bathroom, choose framed mirrors. These frames can be ornate and even gilded to promote that sense of glamorous luxury. That said, a modern bathroom would look stunning with minimalist metal frames around the mirrors.

Reflect Artwork With a Mirror
A classic method for using mirrors to create beauty is to place them so they reflect something specific, in this case artwork. Because the scale of a restaurant bathroom is bigger than in a home, you can get creative with the design.

For example, start with an oversized picture. Then place a decorative mirror so that it only reflects part of the picture, thus creating a new way of looking at that artwork. Conversely, use a distorted mirror, such as one customized with curves. The interplay of the mirror's distortion and the artwork will create a memorable display.

Add Backlighting to a Glass Installation
You can also create your own version of artwork with glass and lighting. In this case, choose one of the semi-opaque glass options, such as frosted or smoked. Have the glass specialists cut it into a geometric shape. Your contractors should install it to a wall with backlighting that shines like a halo around the custom-cut glass. Such an installation is a definite talking point - or selfie point.
Create a positive impression in your restaurant patrons' minds by designing a memorable bathroom. Our specialists at Nor Sac Glass Company  can help you use customized glass and mirrors to promote your restaurant brand. Contact us today for a free estimate.

Window Screen Replacement: What You Need To Know

By Admin • October 10, 2018

Window screens do a great job of keeping insects and bugs out. In hotter months, you can leave the windows open and lower your cooling bill without worrying about anything flying in or crawling through the windows.

Handy as they are, window screens take quite a beating from anything including pets, weather elements, and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, you can replace broken or torn window screens affordably and with minimal disruption to your day-to-day routine.

If you are considering replacing your window screens, here is what you need to know.

Window Screen Options

Traditionally, window screens were made out of a fabric. While these types of screens are still in use, many others types are available to meet customers' functional and aesthetic preferences.

You can replace your broken window screens with aluminum, bronze, copper, fiberglass, and see-through or even colored screens. Some screens not only keep insects out but also block UV rays while others are retractable for better airflow.

Whether you want to replace conventional fabric screens with aluminum screens or fiberglass, most screens will work on standard type windows. This way, you will not need to make any significant changes to your windows to accommodate a new type of screen.

Window Screen Repair or Replacement

Sometimes, repairing is more appropriate than replacing a window screen. If the screen stretches out of its frame, you can simply pull and tack the screen back.

However, you should consider replacement if the screen is torn. A tear will easily let in insects, bugs, and other unwanted visitors. A small tear on the window screen will quickly become a large hole that will inevitably require replacement.

You can use patching kits to repair a punctured screen. A patch is a short-term solution, but you should bear in mind that these patches are visible and may take away from your window's aesthetics.

Replacement is an affordable and long-term solution. With proper maintenance, window screens can serve you for many years, so the upfront cost of replacement will certainly pay for itself.

DIY or Professional Window Screen Replacement

Unless you have solid handyman skills, consider hiring a professional to replace your window screens. Admittedly, window screen replacement may not be the most difficult home repair job. However, a professional has the experience, tools, and expertise to fix your screens quickly and with excellent results.

Professional installation is especially necessary if you are replacing screens on larger windows. Some jobs may require stapling the screen onto the frame, replacing a worn frame, or adding new trim to the window. Only a professional can recommend such solutions to ensure high-quality outcomes.

Based on their experience, a professional installer can also help you select the best window screen in line with your budget and the needs of your home.
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Window Screen Replacement Costs

Cost is an important consideration when you are planning to replace your window screens. Several factors will influence the final out-of-pocket expenses you will incur for such a project.

First, window screen materials are available at varying costs. For example, fiberglass screens are comparably more affordable thanaluminum screens.

Other factors to consider include the shape and size of the window and if the window needs additional trim or frame replacement. In addition, factor in the cost of hiring a professional window screen installer.

Consider replacing all the torn or aged window screens in your home all at once. You can negotiate a discount for bulk purchases and installation.

Replacing old or torn window screens is a quick home improvement project with impressive payoffs. Not only will you keep those pesky creepy-crawlies out but you will also boost your home's curb appeal.

At Nor Sac Glass Company , we have the expertise and tools to replace your window screens fast and affordably. Call us today to schedule an appointment.

Beautiful Ideas for Non-Opening Windows

By Admin • July 25, 2018
Houses often feature windows that don't open for a variety of reasons. They may be near other windows that do open, or they could be located in a spot where opening is unfeasible. The main purpose of non-opening windows is to let more light in. However, you can make your non-opening windows a design focal point in your home by changing the glass or otherwise updating them.

Modern Style

Glass is a preferred material for modern architecture because it's manufactured and features a sleek profile. For this reason, many modern homes feature extensive amounts of windows.

If you want a more contemporary look for your home, you can give your windows a modern makeover by changing them out. The best frame material for this makeover is metal because it's another characteristic material for modern design. To keep the look sleek, your modern windows shouldn't feature any panes within the expanse of glass.

Another way to modernize your windows is to choose a customized color for the metal frames. Black is elegant, but brightly-colored frames can add a touch of whimsy.

Stained Glass

On the other end of the spectrum, consider going traditional with stained glass. These windows still let in light while offering some privacy. As a bonus, the light that's let in features brilliant colors from the glass staining. Stained glass windows range in style from historical to modern, and you can order custom designs as well.

Leaded Glass

Leaded glass is similar to stained glass in that the panes feature a pattern. In fact, the terms stained glass and leaded glass are sometimes used interchangeably. However, a big difference between them is that leaded glass typically doesn't feature any coloration - all the patterning comes from multiple glass panes that have been cut and joined decoratively.

Leaded glass, also called came glasswork because of the process by which it is made, is ideal for traditional and historical homes. These windows don't offer as much privacy as do stained glass windows. However, leaded glass can be an elegant installation anywhere privacy isn't a concern.

Patterned Glass

Somewhere in between stained and leaded glass is patterned glass. During production, manufacturers pour the molten glass over a mold to create patterns in the surface. The glass is still transparent, though the patterning offers some level of privacy. Patterned glass comes in styles ranging from geometric patterns to pictorial images.

Glass Blocks

If privacy is important to you, another option is to have glass blocks installed. You could select a preassembled glass block panel. These panels come in a variety of sizes that can fit most standard window openings. What's more, they're weather-tight but require little maintenance. They're also thicker, and so sturdier, than traditional glass panes.

Glass blocks can also come as, well, blocks or bricks. If you keep the blocks separate, you can design your own pattern for the window installation. The blocks and bricks come in different sizes, so you can even create a mosaic effect with enough space.

Changed Shape

If you don't mind committing to a slightly more involved remodel, consider changing the shape of your nonopening windows. Non-opening windows are typically either square or rectangular. However, a new shape can add some visual interest.

If the non-opening windows are transom, meaning above a door or another window, consider a semicircular or half-fan shape. The arch at the top lends an air of elegance. If the window is standalone, a porthole or octagonal window would make a creative replacement.

Any window is an advantage in your home. Make over your non-opening windows so they also add visual interest. Call Nor Sac Glass Compan y for help with any of your custom window needs.

Leaking Windows: Causes, Effects, and Solutions

By Admin • June 1, 2018
Leaking windows are one of the most common issues with houses. While leaking windows are more common in older homes, even new houses aren't immune. While windows can leak both air and water, the more obvious leak comes from water. Leaky windows can result in condensation, rivulets, or pools of water.

Discover what the window leak is trying to tell you and how you can best solve the problem.

Causes of Leaking Windows

The appearance of condensation can indicate different problems depending on the location. If there's just a little condensation at the bottom of the window, you simply have some humidity buildup in your home.

However, if you see condensation in the middle of the pane, this could indicate the gas in your multipaned window is leaking. The gas is inert and harmless, but such a leak does make your window's insulation less effective. If the condensation is between the panes of glass, you likely have a failed seal between the two.

What about if you see more than condensation? If you see water leaking around the window, that's a sign that the window is not shut tight. Locking the window may be enough to solve the problem. However, the seals around your glass can also be failing. When there's heavy rain, you may see some water in the window tracks, but that's probably not an indicator of a big issue.

Water leaking near the top of a window should be a red flag. That leak can be an indicator of a bigger issue than just failing seals. Water may be running down behind the siding and making its way inside the house. This leak may be caused by an improperly installed house wrap or flashing.

Effects of Leaking Windows

Naturally, extra water getting into your home is not a good thing. The first negative effect of leaking windows is the condensation on the glass and even pools of water.

If the moisture sticks around and there's a little warmth, mold can start to grow. Mold may appear as a discoloration on the surface of the window or surrounding structures. If the leak is significant enough, mold may even start growing in the wall cavities. Such mold can present health issues.

Excess moisture can also damage the structures around the windows, especially if they're wooden. This presents as a buckling or warping. You may also notice paint starting to bubble and peel.

Solutions to Leaking Windows

When the cause of leaking windows is failing seals, that's a relatively easy fix. You can have the seals replaced - consider a gasket-style seal because it's especially efficient. You may also be able to use caulk to seal up any gaps around the window structure.

If the condensation is a result of leaking gas or failed seals within the window construction, you're probably going to need new windows. Sometimes you can have windows repaired, but repairs are often costly. It's often more cost-efficient to just replace the entire window. In this case, you can also upgrade to more energy-efficient windows.

If you see water leaking from the top of the window, you may be in for a bigger repair. Since fixing or even replacing the window isn't going to solve the underlying issue, you'll need an expert contractor to examine the flashing and house wrap. If one of those is causing the leak, then that will need to be repaired.

Leaking windows can cause warping and mold over time. If your window has been leaking for a while, consider having the structure around the window inspected for damage, especially if you suspect mold got into your walls.

Don't put up with leaky windows - ignoring the problem can lead to more expense later. Consult with the glass experts at Nor Sac Glass Company  for more help with your leaking windows.
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