For lovers of a modern, minimalist aesthetic, glass is the go-to.
From balustrade panels and shower screens, to Juliet balconies and even fireplace hearths, it can be used for many different things around the home, brightening up spaces and giving the illusion of more space.
Yes, it’s incredibly stylish. But is it just good looks, or is glass furniture a practical addition to your home, too?
The experts at Express Glass Warehouse reveal the all-important pros and cons in this article, to help you decide once and for all whether glass will make a good addition to your home.
Pro: Sophisticated and timeless aesthetic
If you’re on the lookout for something that will make your home feel more modern, airy, and sophisticated, glass is a great choice.
With its sleek, transparent appearance, glass not only makes any room feel larger and more open, but it also pairs well with a range of other materials and decor styles, ensuring it lasts and looks great in your space for decades to come.
Con: Shows dirt, dust, and smudges easily
Because of the smooth, reflective surface of glass furniture products, they tend to show dirt, dust, and smudges quite easily.
Of course, if you have the time for constant upkeep, this won’t be a problem, but it isn’t ideal for those with busy lifestyles, messy children and pets.
Speaking of cleaning, though…
Pro: Easy to clean
Glass is incredibly easy to keep clean.
So, even though it requires regular upkeep, you won’t have any trouble restoring its shine at the end of the week.
Start by dusting the surface with a clean, dry microfibre cloth to remove any loose debris.
Then use a specially formulated glass cleaner or a home-made solution of dish soap and water (adding a touch of white vinegar or lemon juice to remove particularly stubborn stains) and wipe down the surface.
Finally, use a separate, dry microfibre cloth and dry for a streak-free finish.
Con: Glare and reflections
Again, because of the reflective quality of glass, it can often create unwanted reflections or a distracting glare, especially in offices or home working spaces, or living rooms where there are a number of different light sources.
To combat this, though, you can opt for anti-reflective glass, which has a special coating that minimises reflections and improves light transmission where you need it most.
Pro: Versatile design opportunities
As previously touched upon, glass pairs well with a range of different colours, materials, and decor styles.
So, if you’re looking for a simple upgrade without having to worry about switching up the rest of your interior, glass furniture is the way to go.
Con: Difficult to install
Glass products, like balustrade panels, shower screens, and kitchen splashbacks, can be a little tricky to install for beginner DIYers.
The difficulty lies in the potential for damage if not handled carefully, particularly during assembly or if the glass isn’t properly secured.
This is why it’s always best to trust a professional, so you can ensure a stunning, long-lasting finish in your home or workplace.
Need help choosing the perfect glass products for your home?
Whenever you’re looking for top-quality glass products for your home, the team at EGW has got you covered.
Browse their glass products online today, or get in touch with their team for expert advice and recommendations for your space.