When deciding on which mirror to buy, you are often tasked with two questions, what size to buy, and whether it is flat or beveled mirror to choose? Today, we will try to make your choice (on Flat Vs Beveled) a bit easier to make.
Flat Mirror
A flat mirror is a mirror with plane reflecting surface. It is not polished or beveled, and light reflects clearly. Flat mirrors do not give any special effects, but are useful to be framed and virtually can be accommodated with any design form. Plane mirrors are the popular variety in mirrors.
Beveled Mirror
A beveled mirror refers to a mirror that has its edges cut and polished to a specific angle and size in order to produce an elegant, framed look. This process leaves the glass thinner around the edges of the mirror, while the large middle portion remains the standard 1/4” thickness. Beveled mirror is usually made by creating an angled surface cut (bevel) around the entire periphery. They have a slant (or bevel) of approximately one inch wide at their edges to catch the light — creating interesting visual effects. The bevels act as prisms which refract the light (artificial or sunlight) splitting it into the colors of the rainbow.
The edges of beveled mirror gives it an exquisite look of a framed mirror, which is hand embellished and carefully crafted
How is a beveling of wall mirror being done?
A glass-beveling machine is used to grind, polish and level the edges of the mirrors. The edges are now at an angle. The angle or slant, as it is called can measure (thickness) between 0.65 cm to 3 cm, depending on grade, production requirements, design and craftsmanship.
Advantages of Beveled Mirror
It is a general perception that beveled mirrors are used to an artistic effect, without actually changing the basic properties of mirrors. In effect, some people argue that there is little difference between beveled and flat mirrors. A second misconception is that flat mirrors are more reflective.
1. Beveled Mirrors are aesthetically superior. Their edges reflect and refract the light, giving a rainbow effect
2. Beveled Mirrors do not have sharp edges as they are grinded and polished on the periphery. Hence, these mirrors are safer to handle
3. Bevel (slant) on the mirror gives the effect of a frame. Beveled mirrors may be used without framing, without compromising the aesthetics
4. Beveled mirrors require artisanship. Many times, they are hand cut with pumice. Due to this, antique beveled mirrors are pricy and it is a good idea to buy them, as their prices increases as they grow older (due to craftsmanship)
5. Beveled mirror give depth to the room, as they reflect light better
So, next time, you go to buy a mirror, don’t forget to look at the beveled mirror for superior aesthetics. Beveled mirrors are more expensive but definitely, redeem themselves with unique properties.
Mirrorize offers the widest range on beveled and flat mirrors. Now choose from a wide selection of frames, and custom design your mirror, to any size. Visit Mirrorize.ca today!