From countertop materials to wood stains, appliances to metallic accents, there are plenty of elements to consider when designing a kitchen with personality. One important but sometimes overlooked idea is using patterned glass to brighten up cabinets. The right patterned glass can project a homeowner’s unique style onto the kitchen, allowing light to shine in and dishes and collectibles to sparkle.

The Possibilities Are Endless

Unlike window glass, which usually needs to be transparent and properly insulated for maximum visibility and energy efficiency, patterned glass for cabinets is much more versatile. It comes in a variety of color stains, textures, patterns, and transparency levels, allowing for endless customization.

Cabinets containing ornamental items such as decorative dinnerware or collectibles are perfect for more transparent glass and possibly even interior lighting. For cabinets used for general storage, frosted or more heavily patterned glass types work best, opening up the space without completely revealing its contents.

Things to Remember

Using patterned glass in peninsula-style cabinets or in buffets, islands, bars, or hutches is a great idea, but it can come with some headaches. Areas like these attract a lot of traffic, making glass more susceptible to damage, especially if there are children or large pets in the house. It’s also important to note that glass used in cabinets near cooking equipment (especially ranges) may get soiled more easily and require cleaning often.

IGU stands for insulated glass unit, which consists of two or more panes of glass separated by a sealed, dry air space. They are incredibly useful for conserving energy, managing sunlight, decreasing outdoor sound, and improving security. IGUs can be customized in a number of ways, including tinting, laminating, etching patterns, installing reflective qualities, and implementing low emissivity.

Understand IGU Components

In addition to two or more panes of glass, IGUs consist of air space, watertight sealants, spacers, and desiccants. Sealants not only keep out moisture but also create a barrier against gas and chemical fog. They enhance the structural integrity of the unit, as well. Spacers physically create a space between the two panes of glass, and desiccants absorb any moisture that may get through the seal.

Save Energy and Money

Insulated glass units help to decrease the amount of solar radiation that enters homes or businesses because IGUs traditionally have a low Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). This reduces the energy cost needed to keep rooms cooler, especially during the summer months. IGUs also promote energy efficiency during the winter by decreasing the amount of heat that exits the building through the windows.

Customize IGU Windows

IGUs can be customized to fit any preference. For example, hydrophilic-coated glass is designed to be easy-to-clean, while spandrel glass makes windows more opaque to increase privacy. Some varieties are even fire rated for added protection. Each IGU component is also available in a variety of styles and materials. For example, spacers are available in aluminum, butyl, stainless steel, foam, and roll formed types.

Insulated glass units are a worthwhile investment for increasing energy savings, safety, and comfort. To learn more about installing IGUs in a home or business, call 816-254-5515 or fill out our contact form today!

Of the many rapidly developing interior and exterior design trends, patterned glass has become an excellent option for adding playfulness, flair, or sophistication to a home. Here are some creative ways to remodel a home using patterned glass.

Add Flair to Garden Spaces

Navigating garden design can often be overwhelming in large spaces. Patterned glass can be used to divide up patio spaces, and it adds an architectural and industrial elegance to any outdoor living space. Patterned glass also works great for outdoor tabletops to complement patio furniture.

Floral Display

Independence and the surrounding area boasts some truly unique native wildflowers, from the Missouri Coneflower to the Prairie Beardtongue, so why not put them on display? Many glass blocks are hollow and have a removable insert, which leads to a host of possibilities. Try removing the insert, filling the block with water, and displaying a colorful floral arrangement to bring a room together.

One-of-a-kind Backsplash

Decorative glass is often used as a simple accent in kitchen spaces to create an upscale backsplash. Depending on the chosen texture and styling, kitchens can be easily modernized or even given a retro look with the right glass backsplash. Furthermore, patterned glass is often a functional addition to kitchens, as it can be easily cleaned without taking on damage like other wall surfaces might in a “splatter zone.”

Add Light to an Entrance

There’s nothing like a grand entrance overflowing with natural light, and patterned glass can easily make that possible. The decorative glass can be embedded around the sides of a door or screen to create dimensional windows that add privacy while still allowing a home to brighten with the sunrise.

Patterned glass is an affordable and stylish way to add a personal touch to your home. For estimates and help getting started, contact Santa Fe Glass today by calling 816-254-5515. We can help you find the right type of patterned glass to give your home a unique update.

Glass shower doors add style and beauty to any bathroom. Keeping them clean and looking new is doable with these five cleaning tips.

Squeegee the Doors Dry

Don’t let shower water accumulate on the glass. To keep water spots from forming and soap scum from collecting, wipe the doors dry after every shower. Use a squeegee for best results.

The Right Cleaner Is in the Kitchen

Look no further than the pantry for a powerful cleaner that polishes glass without streaking. Vinegar is an ideal bathroom cleaner, killing germs and preventing mold and mildew from developing. Plus, it’s very inexpensive. Simply mix one part distilled white vinegar with four parts water, then spray the mixture on the shower doors and wipe off. Do this on a weekly basis.

Use undiluted vinegar to clean the doors if it’s been a while since they have been thoroughly cleaned. Pour vinegar directly onto a rag and wipe doors with a rag to remove accumulated grime. Vinegar also works well on showerheads and faucets.

Bleach Works Too

Another effective, low-cost cleaner is bleach, which can be used instead of vinegar. Prepare a mixture of one part bleach with four parts water, spray on doors, and wipe clean (be sure to wear gloves). Once a week is sufficient to keep doors clean and free of bacteria, mold, and mildew.

Try a Fabric Softener Sheet

Another neat trick is to use a standard fabric softener sheet to wipe down doors. Since these sheets break up water spots, they work well in loosening stains and removing soap scum buildup. Scrub the dry glass with a fabric softener sheet, then follow up with a vinegar cleaning.

Keep the Bathroom Ventilated

Any cleaning efforts will last longer in a bathroom that has good airflow. Stuffy rooms trap moisture, which can breed mold. A well-ventilated bathroom fosters a healthier environment that helps shower doors last a long time. Run the fan and open the bathroom door and window after showering.

Santa Fe Glass has been in the glass business for over 60 years, and we know a thing or two about cleaning showers. Contact us at 816-254-5515 for additional cleaning tips.