Spandrel Glass
Spandrel glass is non-vision, opaque glass used to cover areas of a building’s façade where vision glass is not needed, such as between floors or in front of structural elements like columns and beams. It provides a uniform exterior appearance.
Spandrel Glass
Spandrel manufactured by Thompson Innovative Glass is an opaque glass used in architectural glazing systems between vision areas of buildings to conceal structural elements or mechanical components within a building's façade. It is primarily designed for aesthetic and functional purposes, creating a seamless or complementary appearance alongside vision glass.
Key Features of Spandrel Glass
Opacity
Spandrel glass is rendered opaque through coatings, films, or back-painting ceramic frit on the inner surface. This prevents visibility into areas behind the glass, such as structural beams, insulation, or HVAC systems.
Color and Finish
Thompsons Innovative Glass offers a wide range of ceramic frit colors, to match or complement adjacent vision glass or façade materials.
Durability
Typically made from tempered glass or heat-strengthened glass, spandrel glass is designed to withstand thermal stresses and impacts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spandrel Glass
What is spandrel glass?
Spandrel glass is non-vision, opaque glass used to cover areas of a building’s façade where vision glass is not needed, such as between floors or in front of structural elements like columns and beams. It provides a uniform exterior appearance.
What is ceramic frit spandrel glass?
Ceramic frit spandrel glass is glass that has been coated with a ceramic-based, heat-fused coating (ceramic frit) during the manufacturing process. This creates a durable, opaque or semi-opaque finish that resists fading, scratching, and environmental exposure.
How is ceramic frit applied to spandrel glass?
The ceramic frit is silkscreened or digitally printed onto the glass surface and then fired in a tempering furnace at high temperatures. This fuses the ceramic material to the glass, making it permanent and highly durable.
What is the purpose of spandrel glass?
Spandrel glass is used to:
- Conceal building elements (e.g., floor slabs, insulation, ductwork)
- Create a seamless glass façade when paired with vision glass
- Enhance aesthetics with customizable colors and patterns
- Improve energy efficiency by reducing heat gain or loss
What colors and patterns are available for ceramic frit spandrel glass?
Ceramic frit is available in a wide range of solid colors, gradients, and custom patterns to match architectural designs. Standard colors from Thompson Innovative Glass include white, black, gray, and bronze. Custom colors are available as well. Contact us for more information.
Does ceramic frit affect glass strength?
No, applying ceramic frit does not weaken the glass. In fact, since spandrel glass is typically tempered or heat-strengthened, it remains highly durable and impact-resistant.
Can ceramic frit spandrel glass be insulated?
Yes, spandrel glass can be part of an insulated glass unit (IGU) for enhanced thermal performance. However, proper ventilation is needed behind the glass to prevent heat buildup.
How durable is ceramic frit spandrel glass?
Ceramic frit is extremely durable because it is fused into the glass surface during tempering. It is scratch-resistant, weather-resistant, and fade-resistant, making it ideal for exterior use.
Can ceramic frit spandrel glass be customized with logos or designs?
Yes! Thompson Innovative Glass has several options as digital printing technology allows for custom patterns, logos, or gradients to be incorporated into the ceramic frit layer for branding or decorative purposes.