Glass finishing is a crucial aspect of many architectural and interior design projects, especially when it comes to glass products. Two popular techniques for treating glass corners are radius corners and dubbed corners. While both methods aim to enhance safety and aesthetics, they differ significantly in their application and appearance. This blog post will explore the difference between radius and dubbed glass, helping you make an informed decision for your next glass project.
The Importance of Glass Edge Finishing
Glass edge finishing plays a vital role in both the safety and visual appeal of glass installations. Properly finished edges not only reduce the risk of injuries but also ensure safety and contribute to the overall aesthetics of the piece. Among the various finishing techniques available, radius and dubbed corners are two popular options that offer distinct advantages.
Why Does Edge Treatment Matter?
Untreated glass edges can be sharp and hazardous, posing a significant risk of cuts and injuries. By applying appropriate edge treatments, such as radius or dubbed corners, the safety of glass installations is greatly enhanced. This is particularly important in high-traffic areas or spaces frequented by children and pets.
Proper edge treatment also contributes to the longevity of glass installations. Finished edges are less prone to chipping and cracking, ensuring that the glass maintains its integrity and appearance over time.
Understanding Radius Corners
Radius corners are a popular choice for glass finishing, offering a smooth, rounded edge that enhances both safety and aesthetics. This technique involves carefully grinding and polishing the glass edge to create a curved profile, eliminating sharp angles and creating a more refined look.
The Process of Creating Radius Corners
Creating radius corners is a precise process that requires specialised equipment and skilled craftsmanship. The glass edge is first ground to the desired shape using a series of abrasive wheels. This is followed by a polishing process that smooths the surface and creates a lustrous finish. The result is a beautifully rounded edge that flows seamlessly around the corners of the glass.
Advantages of Radius Corners
Radius corners offer several benefits that make them a popular choice for many glass applications. The smooth, rounded edge significantly helps to ensure safety in various settings.
Enhanced Safety
The smooth, rounded edge significantly reduces the risk of cuts and injuries.
Elegant Appearance
The curved profile creates a sophisticated look that can elevate the overall design of a space.
Versatility
Radius corners can be applied to various glass thicknesses, making them suitable for a wide range of projects.
What are Dubbed Corners?
Dubbed corners, also known as seamed or arrised edges, offer an alternative approach to glass corner treatment. This technique involves slightly dulling or softening the sharp 90-degree corners of the glass, creating a safer edge without dramatically altering the overall shape of the glass.
The Process of Creating Dubbed Corners
Creating dubbed corners is a relatively simple process compared to radius corners. A dubbing pad or specialised tool is used to gently sand down the sharp corners of the glass, creating a small bevel or chamfer. This process removes the potentially dangerous sharp point while maintaining the overall rectangular shape of the glass edge.
Advantages of Dubbed Corners
Dubbed corners offer several benefits that make them a popular choice for certain applications.
Improved Safety
By removing the sharp points, dubbed corners reduce the risk of cuts and injuries.
Minimal Alteration
The overall shape and dimensions of the glass remain largely unchanged, making dubbed corners suitable for applications where precise measurements are critical.
Suitable for All Thicknesses
Unlike radius corners, dubbed corners can be applied to glass of any thickness, from thin sheets to thick panels.
Cost-Effective
The process of creating dubbed corners is generally quicker and requires less specialised equipment, potentially reducing costs.
Comparing Radius and Dubbed Corners
When choosing between radius and dubbed corners, it’s essential to consider the specific requirements of your project. Both techniques offer unique advantages and limitations that can impact the final result.
Aesthetic Differences
The most noticeable difference between radius and dubbed corners is their appearance. Radius corners create a smooth, curved edge that flows around the entire perimeter of the glass. Dubbed corners, on the other hand, maintain the overall rectangular shape of the glass, with only a slight softening of the sharp corners.
Suitability for Different Glass Thickness
One of the key differences between radius and dubbed corners is their suitability for various glass thicknesses. When choosing the appropriate edge treatment, it’s essential to measure glass accurately to ensure that the chosen technique is suitable for the glass thickness. Radius corners typically require glass that is at least 6mm thick to provide enough material for creating the rounded edge. Dubbed corners, however, can be applied to glass of any thickness, making them a more versatile option for projects involving thin glass sheets.
Choosing the Right Glass and Corner Finish
Selecting the right glass and corner finish can be a daunting task, but with a little knowledge, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs. Here are some key factors to consider.
- Glass Type: The type of glass you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as transparency, safety, and durability. For instance, toughened glass is ideal for safety, while low iron glass offers superior clarity.
- Glass Thickness: The thickness of the glass is another important consideration. Thicker glass is generally more durable and safer, but it can also be more expensive. Ensure you choose a thickness that balances safety and cost-effectiveness for your project.
- Corner Finish: The corner finish you select will depend on your personal preference and the intended use of the glass. Radius corners provide a smooth, rounded edge that enhances safety, while dubbed corners offer a subtle safety enhancement without significantly altering the glass’s shape.
- Edge Finish: The edge finish can greatly impact the aesthetics of your glass product. A polished edge finish is aesthetically pleasing and can add a touch of elegance to your glass installations, making it a popular solution for many projects.
- Cut Outs: If your project requires cut outs, such as holes for screws or handles, be sure to specify this when ordering. Properly measured and executed cut outs are essential for the functionality and safety of the glass.
- Delivery Date: Finally, consider the delivery date when ordering your glass. Ensure that the glass arrives on time to meet your project deadlines and avoid any delays.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right glass and corner finish for your needs, ensuring a safe and aesthetically pleasing product that meets your design objectives. Whether you need radius corners for enhanced safety or dubbed corners for a subtle finish, making an informed choice will enhance the functionality and visual appeal of your glass installations.
Choosing between Radius Corners or Dubbed Corners on Glass Units
The choice between radius and dubbed corners in glass finishing is more than just an aesthetic decision. It involves careful consideration of safety, practicality, and design objectives. By understanding the unique characteristics and applications of each technique, you can make an informed choice that enhances both the functionality and visual appeal of your glass installations.
Whether you opt for the smooth elegance of radius corners or the subtle safety enhancement of dubbed corners, we provide whatever you need when it comes to bespoke glass solutions, here at Performance Glass. To find out more, drop us an email today on theteam@performanceglass.co.uk.