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Structural glazing aesthetics: Specifying concealed glazing tape
Glazing tape plays a crucial role in modern glazing systems, providing structural integrity and weather resistance, while allowing structural glazing with a minimal aesthetic. However, in framing applications such as custom steelwork the tape is exposed resulting in an unsightly finish. This case study demonstrates a solution for concealing glazing tape using digitally printed glass.
This stunning private residence in the Adelaide Hills features a 25m lap pool located within a custom built enclosure. Built by Liink group, the enclosure features extensive use of glazing to maximise light and vision to the immaculate surrounding gardens and hills landscapes.
The glazing for the project comprises of over 100sqm of 6mm and 13.52mm low iron glass. All panels are supplied with a pure white ImagInk printed border. The glass was manufactured from Cooling Brothers Perth facility and freighted into Adelaide. Completed by Liink Group and Festival Glass, the outcome is a seamless intersection of glass and steel framing, with no visible glazing tape.
A 30mm white border was printed using ImagInk ceramic inks applied directly to the glass. The inks provide a fade and scratch resistant surface - perfect for concealing structural glazing tape.
Options for concealing structural tape in glazing applications where tape is visible
When structural glazing tape is visible, it can detract from the overall aesthetics of the glazing system. To tackle this challenge, architects and designers have explored various methods to conceal the tape effectivelY.
Colored or Tinted Tapes
Using glazing tapes with colors that match the glass or frame can help blend the tape into the surroundings. This approach creates a more harmonious and unified appearance.
Back-Painted Glass
Applying paint or a colored layer on the backside of the glass panel can obscure the tape when viewed from the front, providing a clean and seamless look.
Integrated Channels or Profiles
Designing the glazing system with built-in channels or profiles can hide the tape within the structure, eliminating its visibility.
Printed Glass
Printing on glass panels has emerged as an innovative and elegant solution to conceal structural glazing tape while adding artistic patterns or designs to the glass surface.
30mm white border, digitally printed with UV resistant ceramic inks
The clean white colour palette of the pool enclosure required all glazing details to match. While this is a straightforward selection for framing and fittings, the custom steelwork for the project meant the glazing technique would result in the black structural glazing tape being exposed, creating a noticeable window framing effect.
A 30mm white border was designed, and printed using Cooling Brothers ImagInk digital printing process. Ceramic inks are applied directly to the glass, which can be installed as monolithic, or further processed into laminated glass. The inks provide a fade and scratch resistant surface - perfect for concealing structural glazing tape.
Benefits of using a printed border to conceal structural tape
Aesthetic enhancement
Printed glass allows architects and designers to unleash their creativity, incorporating intricate patterns, images, or designs onto the glass surface. This artistic touch not only conceals the tape but also enhances the visual appeal of the glazing system.
Seamless integration
By printing the pattern directly onto the glass panel, there is no need for additional layers or materials, ensuring a seamless and flush surface that conceals the structural tape effectively.
Customisability
Printed glass provides unparalleled customisation options, enabling architects to tailor the design to match the specific aesthetic and functional requirements of the project.
Durability and longevity
The printed patterns on glass are highly durable and resistant to fading, ensuring that the concealed tape remains hidden and visually pleasing for an extended period.
Easy maintenance
Printed glass is easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for architectural applications.
"Using an ImagInk digitally printed border provided the optimal solution for our client's requirements. It easily and cost effectively conceals the glazing tape, and created a seamless interface between framing and glass - a very important outcome given the large amount of glass and views offered."
MARKUS DIKO
Liink Group
