| 1. What is
back-lighted art glass?
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| Back-lighted
art glass is any art glass that is illuminated by artificial light from
behind instead of natural light coming through a window opening. |
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| 2. What are
typical applications for back-lighted glass? |
|
Any
interior space is suitable for a back-lighted glass panel. At
Tooley Art Glass Studio, we focus on
backlighting panels
for architectural applications like church interiors.
>
Frequently a panel is desired above a baptistery but the baptistery is not on an
exterior wall where a window to natural light can be placed. Backlighting
provides the solution to this problem.
>
In multipurpose facilities, hallways and offices are often positioned around the
central sanctuary, thereby blocking exterior light. Backlighting
"windows" around the interior wall can provide the traditional small
church sensation.
>
Frequently an existing window from a previous sanctuary must be moved to a new
sanctuary that does not have a suitably sized or positioned window.
Backlighting permits the existing window to be positioned anywhere there is
sufficient wall space!
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| 3. How
is the back-lighting accomplished? |
|
Fluorescent
lamps are used for illumination and diffuser material is used to spread out the
light uniformly. Dimmers are employed since it is difficult to determine the
exact level of light needed, and because that need may vary (for example between
daytime and nighttime services).
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| 4. What
maintenance and longevity do back-lighted panels have? |
| The art
glass panels have greater longevity than if they were mounted in windows
and subject to extremes of temperatures and absorption of sunlight. The
only maintenance item is lamp replacement after several years of
continuous use. The light box must be designed to permit both
installation of the glass and access to the lamps for replacement. |
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| 5.
What factors impact the cost of back-lighted glass? |
| Besides the cost of the
art glass itself, there must be some steel framework welded to hold the
glass, some case work for appearance, some light diffuser material
($5/sq-ft) and electrical parts and installation. If the glass is
in a area where vulnerable to touching, a piece of clear safety glass is
recommended to protect the art glass. In general the size of the
area is the prime factor, followed by the installation costs, which will
vary by the location selected. (Sometimes an enclosure must be
sheet-rocked). |
| 6.
Still have more Questions? |
|
Then
send a specific question to us using the email link below or call!
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