So in which category do glass curtains belong? Are they windows, doors or curtains? The answer: all of the above.
Glass Curtains Then
Glass curtains were first utilized as an enclosure for balconies and terraces in warm countries. The weatherproof, transparent wall of glass allowed people to enjoy the view of the outdoors without leaving the comforts of their home.
When the privacy glass walls panels finally arrived in the market, glass enclosures were called ‘curtains’.
It did not take long before restaurants and cafes adapted the concept of sliding glass curtains. Glass curtains were mainly used to improve ventilation inside the business establishment. But to achieve a more chic and professional-looking enclosure, sliding frameless glass doors were installed. This type of architectural glass walls are basically glass walls used as doors.
In larger businesses such as offices, sliding glass panels were often used as a partition system. It is a great alternative to block-by-block partitions because they are space-efficient and cost-effective. Oftentimes, businesses use etched or frosted glass panels to add style and personality to their offices.
Even old hotels and golf clubs were able to use glass curtains to their advantage. To provide an amazing view for guests, glass curtains were installed in rooms and cloisters. Though made of fragile and solid material, glass curtains can still be built to fit rooms with curved walls and openings.
Glass Curtains Now
New models of glass curtains have been made available in the market recently. Unlike the single glazed toughened glass panels, the new units meet thermal insulation requirements, making them ideal not only in balconies, terraces or hotels, but in patios as well.
If you are interested to buy one for your home, there are plenty of things that you need to consider. Good thing, glass curtains of today provide tons of options to help you find the most suitable model for your home. Here are a few of them:
1. Replacing a wall or patio door to enjoy a larger view
Bi-folding doors provide a wide view and may be folded back to the side of the wall/s for easy access. The frame plays a huge role in determining the size of the view. For instance, plastic frames are cheap but are wider than wood. The latter on the other hand, is wider than aluminum frames which are often confined to 60mm.
2. Getting amazing views with single panels for flexible access
Slim lined double glazed panels may be folded at one side of the opening or arranged between two panels, creating an opening in the middle. You can adjust the gaps in any way you want—create a narrow opening to keep a toddler from walking out or prevent a pet from entering.
3. Desiring frameless door system
Double glazed doors conforming thermal requirements are already available, but their effectiveness as external doors is yet to be proven by tests. Tests are necessary to ensure safety and efficiency of the glass curtain. Manufacturers must show certifications from authorities first before people start buying them.
