What Is Mirror Glass?
Mirror glass is a type of mirror made from a sheet of glass that has been coated with silver on one side for reflective purposes.
Currently, various types of mirrors are available, including film mirrors, acrylic mirrors, aluminum mirrors, and stainless steel mirrors. Glass mirrors continue to be in demand and are still being manufactured.
Each type of mirror has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and they are used in different settings and for different purposes.
Uses of Mirror Glass
Here are some examples of how mirror glass is used:
- Large mirrors installed on the walls of dance studios
- Plastic mirrors used in compact mirrors for young girls
- Stainless steel mirrors used in elevators
Mirror glass is often considered the best choice due to its reflection quality, affordability, and ease of maintenance. However, it can be fragile and should be handled with care.
One of the key advantages of mirror glass is its resistance to image distortion, low cost compared to other mirror materials, and the ability to be treated to prevent moisture and fogging. This makes it suitable for use in high-humidity and challenging environments such as restrooms and bathrooms.
Another benefit is that even when installed in high-traffic areas where contact with the surface is common, the mirror’s metallic backing and silver screen protective film make it less susceptible to scratches and deterioration from regular use.
Principle of Mirror Glass
Since mirror glass is made of glass, it is non-flammable and does not emit toxic gases. The standard clear glass contains some iron content, which becomes more apparent as the glass thickness increases.
For example, in large areas like dance studios, thicker mirror glass may cause a bluish tint compared to the actual colors. High-transmittance mirrors, made from glass with reduced iron content, are used in settings such as beauty salons to display natural colors accurately.
Colored mirrors, crafted from tinted glass with a silver coating, create a vintage ambiance and are commonly used in restaurants and hotel floors. Designers appreciate the ability to select colors to match specific themes.
Additional Information on Mirror Glass
Cautions for Using Mirror Glass
Since mirror glass is a glass product, it can pose a risk of injury from glass shards if broken. To prevent shattering upon breakage, some mirrors installed in public places are coated with shatterproof film.
Moreover, mirrors have exhibited quicker deterioration in recent years. In the past, heavy metals like lead were added to mirrors to prevent corrosion. Due to environmental regulations, mirrors produced without heavy metals are now standard. Consequently, mirrors in restroom washrooms, which are frequently cleaned, and bathrooms, which are consistently humid, have experienced localized corrosion in recent years.
The lifespan of mirrors varies depending on cleaning and maintenance practices. Therefore, it is essential to install mirrors to prevent prolonged contact with moisture and water. When cleaning, select neutral detergents that do not contain chelating agents or other chemicals that could cause reactions. Careful selection of cleaning agents is necessary to preserve the mirror’s condition.