Etched and sandblasted glass provide stunning aesthetics and enhanced privacy. However, texturized glass is a costly material. As a result, architects and designers looking to spec in texturized glass may require a more affordable product.
When faced with budget restrictions, a frequent influence in projects, many architects and designers turn to the concept of value engineering. Value engineering involves using more affordable materials without sacrificing performance or aesthetics. By cutting costs in some areas, this approach allows architects and designers to reallocate a portion of their budget toward implementing ideas that may not have a more cost-effective alternative.
Cost is just one factor to consider when looking for an alternative to etched or sandblasted glass. 3M Fasara and Crystal Glass Finishes can address these considerations while offering several additional benefits compared to traditional texturized glass.
Benefits of Value-Engineered 3M Decorative Glass Finishes
- Cost-Effective
- Non-Intrusive Installation
- Changeable
- Maintains Structural Integrity of Glass
Cost-Effective
Traditional etched glass typically has a high cost per square foot. Extrapolated out for an entire office building, hotel, or other commercial space, and that’s a significant investment. On the other hand, 3M Decorative Glass Finishes foster the same aesthetic but at a third of the cost.
Non-Intrusive Installation
Renovating an existing building often involves temporarily displacing employees and operations coming to a screeching halt. This downtime costs businesses money in lost revenue, ultimately affecting their bottom line. Consequently, the ability to transform a space while maintaining continuity of operations appeals to building owners and property managers. Installing 3M Decorative Glass Finishes to existing glass requires little to no downtime.
Changeable
Because the process of creating traditional etched and sandblasted glass involves removing material from the substrate, its appearance is set in stone — or glass, rather. 3M Decorative Films, on the other hand, are easily swapped out for a new design. Although 3M manufactures the films to last for years, the semi-permanent adhesive allows for changeability. This flexibility saves money down the road as the need for future renovations arises.
Maintains Structural Integrity of Glass
Lastly, in addition to the permanence of traditional texturized glass due to the removal of material, etching or sandblasting glass also compromises the substrate’s strength. In its weakened state, the glass is more likely to fracture. Alternatively, 3M Decorative Glass Finishes are thin sheets of vinyl or polyester applied to existing glass. Installing 3M films involves adding material, not taking it away. While 3M Decorative Films are not manufactured with the intent of strengthening glass like 3M’s Safety & Security Films, they do provide marginally enhanced tensile strength.
Save Money While Maintaining Quality
When searching for a value-engineered alternative to traditional texturized glass, 3M Decorative Glass Finishes provide the perfect solution. As a result, architects and designers can maximize the impact of their budgets without compromising quality. Get in touch with EPD, the value engineering experts, for a no-obligation consultation.
