Mirrors are considered an essential part of our everyday lives – it’s hard to find a residential property without at least one mirror. Find out why mirrors are a must throughout the home.
When choosing a mirror for your home, different types can be used for various purposes. Glass, acrylic and Perspex mirrors are popular choices, and each has unique benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we will explore the differences between these three types of mirrors, their manufacturing processes and what they are typically used for.
Glass mirrors
Glass mirrors are constructed from a single piece of glass which is tinned and then lined with silver metal. These base materials are coated with two layers of paint and finished with an adhesive. The glass is then heated and cut into the desired shape. It is then sprayed with silver or aluminium for a shiny, crystal-clear finish. Glass mirrors are very strong and durable, making them ideal for use in high-traffic areas such as hallways and bathrooms. They also come in various sizes, shapes and colours, allowing for a more personalised look. The downside to glass mirrors is that they are more expensive than their acrylic and Perspex counterparts, and if they are accidentally broken, they will shatter into very sharp pieces, which can be dangerous.
We prefer using only glass for our handcrafted wooden-framed mirrors at Steamed Studio. This is because glass is more scratch resistant, doesn’t warp and has a heavier feel for a luxurious and sturdy finish. It’s also the most sustainable choice because glass is an endlessly recyclable permanent material, reducing waste and saving natural resources. You can read more about sustainability here. The steam bending process is also environmentally friendly because it uses low energy and produces very little waste.
Where mirrored glass can be used in the home
Because high-quality glass has perfect clarity, you can cut, polish and shape it whichever way you choose to create a captivating focal point for your home. By reflecting light, the mirror will brighten your space and create the illusion of a bigger room. Mirrored glass wardrobes in bedrooms are a popular choice as they reflect the space and create a feeling of airiness. Glass mirrored furniture is also prevalent in interior design. It provides a shiny and luxurious-looking finish that’s fit for a showroom but does require frequent polishing!
Acrylic mirrors
Acrylic mirrors are made using a sheet of acrylic (plastic) and finished with a reflective coating. The sheet of acrylic is heated and then moulded into the desired shape. The reflective layer is then applied to give the mirror its reflective properties. Acrylic mirrors are very lightweight and shatterproof, making them a popular choice for areas where safety is paramount, such as schools and nurseries. Compared to glass, acrylic mirrors are a safer option. They are also very affordable and come in various sizes, shapes and colours.
Where acrylic mirrors can be used in the home
Perfect for home gyms or children’s bedrooms, an acrylic mirror provides slight flexibility. An acrylic mirror is the best option if you are a little accident-prone because an impact that would crack or fully shatter a glass mirror will only leave a little mark on an acrylic one.
Perspex mirrors
Perspex mirrors are a branded form of acrylic sheet made from a type of plastic called polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). This material is heated and then moulded into the desired shape. These are lightweight and shatterproof and can also withstand warm temperatures. Perspex mirrors also come in a range of sizes, shapes and colours and can be used to create interesting effects such as 3D.
Where Perspex mirrors can be used in the home
Perspex mirrors are ideal for use in kitchens and bathrooms where heat and steam are often in the atmosphere. They are also easy to clean.
More information on mirrors
Mirrors can be used to create the illusion of space, and they can also make a room look and feel brighter. They can also be hung in areas you want to conceal – perhaps a cracked wall or some peeling wallpaper. Mirrors are also an important part of the ancient Chinese practice of feng shui. Feng shui is the art of designing peaceful spaces that support the harmony of yin and yang. You can think of yin and yang as opposite yet complementary forces that make up all elements and phenomena of existence. You can place furniture and other items in a specific way to promote a tranquil energy flow, or “qi,” throughout the space to bring yin and yang together. Feng shui might be useful when deciding where to place your mirror.
Summary
Each type of mirror has unique benefits and drawbacks, and your choice will depend on your needs and budget. Acrylic/Perspex mirrors are great for areas where safety is a priority, while glass mirrors are a more aesthetically pleasing option. Our glass wooden-framed mirrors are designed for luxury furnishing and should be out of reach of children. No matter what type of mirror you choose, it’s important to ensure it is installed properly and securely.
Browse our beautiful mirror collection today and treat your home to a handmade item designed to last many years. Each mirror design has three colours and finishes to choose from, so you are bound to find one that perfectly complements your home. Every mirror is handmade to order and dispatched within 2-3 weeks.
