UltraVue vs standard glass: what actually matters

If you have been in the workshop, you have probably had us walk you through the UltraVue option. Most customers upgrade. Here is what is actually behind the choice.

Standard float glass

Standard 2mm float glass is clear, cheap and strong. It reflects roughly 8% of incident light, so you see yourself in the glass when the room is bright. It offers minimal UV protection.

UltraVue low reflection UV glass

UltraVue reflects less than 1% of light. Works on a wall lose that "mirror effect" almost completely. It also blocks 70% plus of UV, which is the main cause of fading in prints, watercolours and photographs.

The cost difference

UltraVue adds roughly $80 to a standard A3 frame, more on larger sizes. On commercial or archival work, it is a no-brainer. On decorative posters, it is often not needed.

When UltraVue is worth it

• Any piece you want to keep for 20+ years
• Anything hanging in a sunny window or bright room
• Works on paper: photographs, watercolours, prints, drawings
• Anything irreplaceable (family photos, commissioned work, signed editions)

When standard glass is fine

• Reprints and posters you would replace easily
• Photocopies, decorative pieces
• Rooms that never get direct sun
• Tight budgets where the frame itself is the priority

If the art would break your heart to lose, put it behind UltraVue.