brxc1171-cte951ldq94r3s5z

ProVia- Superior Door Selections

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 12:35:45 GMT

Steel, Fiberglass and Vinyl Door Products

Steel

Steel doors are energy efficient. Many styles of ProVia steel doors meet the standards for energy star certification. Fabricated with 20-gauge steel, ProVia doors offer superior security and strength compared to standard 24-gauge galvanized doors. They are low maintenance, durable and guaranteed not to crack or warp. Dents and dings can be easily pulled out of the steel. Steel doors are the right selection for homeowners who desire a secure door that will stand the test of time.

Fiberglass

Many are first drawn to ProVia fiberglass doors for their beauty. Upon first glance, one could mistake a fiberglass door for authentic wood. Fiberglass textures can be made to replica wood selections such as: Oak, Cherry, Mahogany, Knotty Alder and Fir. In addition to their beauty, fiberglass doors are considered more energy efficient and lower maintenance than wood doors. fiberglass doors resist denting and scratching and can be maintained with a gentle soap and water. ProVia backs their fiberglass doors with a limited lifetime and transferable warranty protecting against cracking, fading, splitting and warping.

Vinyl

New sliding glass vinyl doors are not an impulse purchase. If you are in the market for a new vinyl door system, your current system most likely lets out heat and air or does not slide open and shut smoothly. ProVia sliding glass doors are tested to ensure they hold in heat and air. Homeowners may enjoy their lowered energy bill and the comfort of a weather-controlled home. ProVia vinyl, much like their steel and fiberglass door systems, exceed industry standards for performance.

All ProVia doors are available in a variety of styles and colors.

Browse ProVia: https://www.provia.com/

Contact a Kenny Glass ProVia expert: https://www.kennyglass.com/contact-us

Satin Brass Hardware Making its Way Back

Thu, 18 May 2023 16:31:04 GMT

The shower scene usually moves trends slowly throughout the year, and one of those that stands out is Satin Brass. This finish is available in many different layouts from a single shower door, to shower door and panel(s), all the way to barn style sliding models. Larger companies like C.R. Laurence Company and Frameless Hardware Company have always offered Satin Brass, but smaller companies are now adding the finish to their products.

Residential Service Manager for Kenny Glass, Tricia Brand, has noticed Satin Brass becoming more of a regular. “Black has still remained popular along with Brushed Nickel” she said, and while it isn’t in the top choices, this finish has shown to be slowly climbing to those top spots.

Satin Brass provides the warmth of brass but has a softer muted hue, with a golden yellow brushed look. Its subtle matte finish helps with keeping fingerprints from showing as well.

This finish is flexible. It can stay retro, but also become elegant and modern if needed. Satin Brass can easily be mixed with the bright tone of Chrome for a complementing contrast, or by itself to create distinctively noticeable fixtures. Pair it with white or light grey for a soft, clean look. Also adding in a black or deep blue vanity or dark floor tile can make it really stand out and become noticed.

Satin Brass and many other finishes are available in our framed, semi-frameless, sliding, and fully frameless shower enclosures. Stop in at our Columbus or Seymour location today, to let us help achieve the look you’re after.

Kenny Glass featured in The Business Connection

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 14:55:33 GMT

Looking Ahead to Spring Cleaning

Find the full article here >>> https://www.therepublic.com/2023/02/17/business-connection-spring-2023/

How to Use Custom Mirrors to Improve Home Value

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 04:06:04 GMT

Selling a home provides unique challenges that may be frustrating if buyers aren't offering the price a seller wants. However, subtle home improvements can boost a home's value and draw in a more significant number of potential buyers. And customized mirrors scattered throughout a house provide one of the most attractive - and least expensive - home improvement options for this purpose.

How Custom Mirrors Improve Home Value

Mirrors have many excellent design options that improve a home's value in a multitude of ways. Homeowners who debate installing custom mirrors in their home need to understand each of these benefits and why they are so important. These mirror advantages include the following elements:

Better lighting: Homeowners who carefully position mirrors throughout their home can reflect sunlight into darker areas and improve the appearance of dark and gloomy regions.
Stylish bathrooms: The bathroom of a home must be stylish and attractive when trying to sell a house. A high-quality custom mirror enhances the bathroom's appearance by making it look larger, brighter, and more comfortable.
Boost room size: Small rooms may drive away potential buyers or at least cause them to reconsider a purchase. However, custom mirrors in these small rooms create the illusion of a larger and more comfortable environment.
Better fashion options: Add custom mirrors to a home's room to create a unique fashion or style statement that potential buyers will notice right away. Utilize elegant and eye-catching mirrors to enhance the look of a home.
Potential feng shui benefits: Many buyers use the guidelines of feng shui when buying a home. And mirrors provide many feng shui benefits, such as bringing positive energy into a room and softening harsher elements.
Enhance security: Mirrors in a home provide a security edge by allowing homeowners to see around walls. These benefits can help homeowners track people who they don't trust in their home and catch them if they try to steal anything.
Hide poor design elements: Minor imperfections in a home can exasperate a buyer and drive down their asking price. However, consider hanging a mirror over these issues- such as a crack in the wall - to hide the problem while also adding a style upgrade to a home.

All of these benefits make high-quality custom mirrors an excellent choice for a home. Make sure to create subtle differences in each mirror to make a home's design more diverse while also retaining some elements between each mirror to keep their style unified.

Where to Install Custom Mirrors

When installing custom mirrors in a home, homeowners need to choose a handful of installation locations. Avoid adding mirrors in every room of a house but, instead, scatter them where they are required. In this way, a homeowner can enhance the style of their home without overwhelming it with too many mirrors. Just a few areas that benefit from mirrors include:

Packed living rooms
Small and dark bathrooms
Guest bedrooms
Along hallway walls
Near windows that collect sunlight

Each of these areas has a problem that a high-quality mirror can help to correct. For example, a mirror in a guest bedroom makes them feel more inviting, comfortable, and homey. Just as importantly, mirrors near sunlit windows reflect light back into a home where it is most needed.

Carefully placed and designed mirrors can elevate a room and prepare your home for sale if that's what you want to do.

Who Can Install Custom Mirrors

If you are interested in using custom mirrors to improve the appearance of your home, please don't hesitate to contact us at Kenny Glass Inc. Our experts will help you design high-quality mirrors and hang them in your home in attractive and memorable ways.

3 Ideas for Upgrading Your Shower in a Tiny Bathroom

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT

When you have a large master suite with its attendant bathroom, you have a lot of real estate to work with. Your designer can create the most well-appointed shower with all the bells and whistles.

The reality is that many people live in condos, townhomes, and small or historical houses. If you're one of these homeowners, are you relegated to a simple bathroom? Of course not. Your bathroom can still be welloutfitted - and it starts with your shower. Read on for some tips for upgrading your shower for a luxurious ambience in your petite bathroom.

1. Frameless Glass Enclosure

In small bathrooms, space is at a premium, and this includes visual space. Framed glass enclosures can be an artistic addition to a large bathroom, but the frame takes up visual space that you can't spare in a small bathroom. Therefore, you should choose a frameless glass enclosure.

Contractors use semi-hidden fasteners that they attach to the wall and that hold the large sheets of heavy-duty glass in place. The doors operate on similarly-discreet hinges. If you want to make your shower enclosure disappear, consider having a transparent acrylic handle installed for opening the door.

A frameless glass enclosure offers the following benefits for a petite bathroom:

Doesn't impede the sightline
Reflects light, making the bathroom feel larger
Lets the tile work show through

Since a frameless glass shower enclosure is a custom construction, the contractors can locate it anywhere you have the spare space.

2. Dual Purpose Japanese Soaking Tub

When you have a tiny bathroom, you may think you either have to have a shower and tub combo installed - which weighs down your visual space - or eschew the tub altogether. However, if you can make the bathtub do double duty, you can transform your walk-in shower into a miniature wet room.

The key to this layout is choosing the right tub. In this case, consider a Japanese soaking tub, which is narrow and tall, usually 27 inches deep. Therefore, you're taking up vertical instead of horizontal space, though you still get the full soaking experience.

Nonetheless, to make the soaking tub worth the space, it has to serve a second purpose - as a shower bench. Many Japanese soaking tubs are constructed of wood, so you could have a cover custom-made also of wood.

Conversely, you can have a Japanese soaking tub fitted with a small surround that also serves as a ledge for shower supplies. A customized cover also converts this setup into a shower bench.

3. Clerestory Window or Skylight

Another way to open up the look of your shower is to open it up even further. If possible, consider having a clerestory window installed. These windows are located high up the wall, so privacy while you're in the shower won't be an issue. If you want extra privacy, though, consider choosing frosted or stained glass, both of which are less transparent.

A full window may not be possible, especially if your shower isn't located against an exterior wall. In that case, consider a clerestory-style opening filled in with glass blocks. These glass blocks, which are essentially bricks made of glass, are even more opaque than frosted or stained glass. They're also stationary, so you can have them installed even in a wall leading to another room or hallway.

If your shower's ceiling is just below the roof, you can have a skylight installed. A skylight is a great boon in a shower stall, especially a small one. The natural sunlight will infuse the whole area with light. What's more, you can choose a casement-style window, which you can open for ventilation. Yet because of the location, you don't have to worry about privacy.

Upgrade your whole tiny bathroom, starting with the walk-in shower, to create a spa-like ambience. Contact Kenny Glass for all your glass and window needs.

Factors Affecting the Proportion of a Custom Bathroom Mirror

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The bathroom is one of the most important areas for putting a mirror because that is where you do a lot of your grooming. That said, you also want your bathroom and its custom mirror to be stylish. One way to ensure your bathroom mirror is attractive within the décor is to adhere to the design principle of proportion.

Learn about the different factors that influence the proportion of a custom bathroom mirror.

Size of the Vanity Mirror

One of the biggest factors that affect the proportion of your bathroom mirror is its overall size. First, the mirror should relate to the vanity below. Typically, your mirror should be slightly narrower that the vanity countertop on each side.

The size of your bathroom mirror will also relate to the wall you hang the mirror on. This principle is especially true when the mirror is separate from a vanity. If you stay within a traditional style, your mirror should be a smaller version of the wall with adequate visual space all around.

However, if you want a modern aesthetic, you may play with proportion. You may choose a geometric mirror that you hang in an asymmetrical location. You may also opt for a long, narrow mirror that cuts the wall into asymmetrical halves.

Single vs. Double Vanity

Another way that the vanity relates to the proportion of your mirror is in its configuration. Many homeowners opt for a double vanity when the master bathroom is a shared space.

In this case, you can choose to hang two identical mirrors over each sink. This setup is ideal if the vanity area is symmetrical. However, if the countertop is not symmetrical, you may consider the second option - a single oversized mirror. That way, the mirror covers the whole space without emphasizing the asymmetry.

Mirror Shape

Bathroom mirrors usually come is square or rectangle, especially in traditional setups. Oval and round mirrors can be tricky because you lose visual space with the omission of the corners. So, from a utilitarian point of view, squares or rectangles are the best. What's more, because they echo the shape of the wall and vanity, maintaining the proportion is easier.

From an aesthetic point of view, ovals and circles do have those curves going for them. Arcs in any design speak to a classical beauty. Therefore, you can sacrifice some of the literal proportion to make room for the pleasing arches of the mirror.

Frames

With custom mirrors, you can also choose a custom frame. If you do opt for a frame, remember that it affects the proportion of the mirror related to the vanity and wall. You'll want to consider the size of the frame in relation to the visual weight it will add.

A very simple frame will not significantly affect the overall proportion of the mirror and its surroundings. However, if you choose a bold color, it will stand out. You may want a smaller mirror to keep it from overwhelming the vanity or the wall you hang the mirror on.

Elaborate frames greatly impact the visual weight of the mirror. A weighty frame can overpower a small vanity. You'll want to save these frames for larger vanities or for mirrors hanging alone. Indeed, a large, elaborately framed mirror could be a statement piece on any size of wall.

Mirror Edges

When you opt for a frameless mirror, you'll need to choose an edging for the glass. The edging can affect the visual proportion of the mirror. If you don't want the mirror to be the center of attention, choose a simple edge.

If your mirror space is large enough to handle more visual weight, consider one of the more elaborate edges. A beveled edge adds a little glimmer around the perimeter. Some of the fancy edges, like waterfall and ogee, give the perimeter the feel of a frame without quite the same visual weight.

Choose custom bathroom mirrors that complement your décor by staying in proportion. Let Kenny Glass Inc. provide a beautiful custom mirror for your bathroom.

3 Steps to Eco-Friendly Commercial Window Design

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

If you are adding more windows to your existing business to help bring in more natural sunlight, then you are already taking a great step toward conserving energy and helping the environment. When more natural light illuminates your building, you can reduce your reliance on electricity, which is often produced by burning fossil fuels which pollute the air.

However, realize there are also many steps you can take during the window design process to keep your project as eco-friendly as possible and look forward to even more energy savings.

1. Add Windows to the South-Facing Side of Your Building

Many people do not realize what a dramatic impact window placement has on the energy efficiency of a building. Windows placed on the east- or west-facing sides of a building tend to lead to much more energy waste than those placed on the north- and south-facing sides of a building.

Placing plenty of windows on the south-facing side of your building can help harness plenty of passive solar energy from the sun to keep your building warm in the winter. This can help you rely on your heating system much less. For the most heat gain in the winter, ensure your windows are placed within 5 to 15 degrees of true south.

The right window overhang can shield these windows from the sun in the summer to help keep your building cool.

While windows placed on the north side of your building will not harness as much solar heat as those placed on the south side of it, windows facing north are much more energy efficient than those facing east or west and can help illuminate your building naturally.

2. Consider Your Window Frame Options

Not all window frames are suitable for commercial windows. Aluminum frames are typically used when constructing window curtains and storefronts. However, when installing a single window unit or a series of commercial windows, there are several window frame options, including vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum.

Aluminum is recyclable, so it is a very environmentally friendly window frame. You may be surprised to hear that vinyl is also a very eco-friendly window frame material that is 100% recyclable. Vinyl can be physically or chemically recycled.

When physically recycled, it is broken down into very small pieces, melted, and then re-formed into new vinyl products. When chemically recycled, it is broken down into the chemicals chlorine and carbon that the material is made of. These chemicals can then be re-used in a variety of ways.

While fiberglass is not recyclable at this time, it is often made from recycled glass.

The window frames used in your new window design must be strong enough to support the load of the building wall they are placed on, so your window design professional will recommend the eco-friendly window frame that is best for your window project.

3. Choose Energy-Efficient Glass

to choose double-pane glass, which can insulate your building much more efficiently than single-pane glass can. Double-pane windows allow 50% less heat to flow through them in the winter, helping you retain your heated air.

For maximum energy efficiency, may also want to consider triple-pane windows. While these windows increase building energy efficiency, they are often very heavy. This means their frame choices are limited, and they may or may not be suitable for your building depending on how much additional weight the building wall they will be added to can bear.

A low-E window coating is also a great option that can help your building conserve heat in the winter and stay cool in the summer. These coatings are made of fine metallic particles that are either adhered to the outer surfaces of your windows or sandwiched between the two panes of glass in a double-pane window. They reflect heat back to its original source.

When you're ready to lower your building's environmental impact and start saving on energy bills, contact Kenny Glass to get your commercial window project started.

Important Shower Design Mistakes to Avoid

Wed, 15 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

A bathroom remodel is an involved - and expensive - process. A large aspect of your bathroom remodel is the shower stall. A custom shower is a beautiful addition to your bathroom. However, you need to plan well so that the shower facilitates your morning routines and also stands the test of time stylistically.

Avoid the following mistakes when designing your shower.

Not Planning Around Pipes

Your walk-in shower is the most water-intensive space in the bathroom. Therefore, when you're planning your shower, you want to ensure you have adequate piping. So as you're planning your shower placement, pay attention to where the existing pipes are.

Your existing bathroom will already have a soil stack, which is the wide pipe that carries away waste water. It should also have smaller pipes that direct water to the soil stack. Ideally, you want to place your new shower where the pipes are already in place. However, if you're moving the shower, make sure the smaller pipes reach the soil stack with the least amount of disruption.

Not Placing Studs Behind Supporting Walls

A shower stall consists of a surround, shower pan, shower head, and enclosure. Except for the shower pan, everything else gets installed to the wall. Of course, all of this material tends to be heavy. What's more, they're attached to the walls via heavy-duty screws.

All of that weight is too much for drywall. When you're deciding on a location for the shower stall, consider where the wall studs are. You'll want to orient the shower so that the glass enclosure can be affixed with the screws going into wall studs.

Planning Space Poorly

The shower stall is one of the most important areas of your bathroom. It's a high-use area. That said, you also often notice the shower stall first because it's a sizable vertical installation. Therefore, the shower stall somewhat drives the look of your bathroom. Therefore, you do want to keep wall studs and existing piping in mind, but you also want the shower to show well in your bathroom.

If you're designing a custom stall, you also want to take care of the space within the enclosure. The point of a custom stall means you can increase the space and lay it out for your preferences. Consider if you want a bench, increased storage, or some other amenities that will facilitate your bathing, and plan the space for them.

Getting Too Trendy With Choices

Certain trends, like multiple sprays, probably won't go out of style. Or if they do, you won't care because having a massage spray aimed at your back is worth it. That said, bathroom remodels are expensive. You're not going to want to undergo the time and expense again in the next few years. So you want to consider which trends will age well.

One trend that's not going to go out of style is glass shower enclosures. They're beautiful, but they're also subtle. The whole point of a glass shower enclosure is it recedes from the sightline, letting the beauty of the décor shine through. Speaking of that beauty - color choices and fads in tile work are where you don't want to get too trendy.

Adhering to Curbed Shower Design

A curbed shower isn't really a mistake. Shower pans with curbs are practical because they're prefabricated and keep the water where it's supposed to stay - inside the shower stall.

However, in the vein of not having to remodel again for a long time, consider curbless shower design. With a curbless shower, the designer omits the curbed shower pan and designs the floor so it directs the water toward a drain. The big advantage is there's no curb to stub toes on. Such a design is ideal as the years pass and stepping over the curb starts to be a challenge.

With careful planning, your shower stall will be the star of your bathroom. Let Kenny Glass construct a beautiful shower glass enclosure as part of your bathroom remodel.

5 Ways to Use Custom Glass Around a Swimming Pool

Mon, 18 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

You already know that glass, especially custom glass, can be a big aesthetic advantage inside the house. The clean look creates a sophisticated appeal, while the material itself reflects light into your rooms. Customized glass can also add beauty and even some utility around your swimming pool area.

1. Customized Water Feature

If the ultimate goal is to harness the beauty of reflective surfaces and sunlight, consider a custom water feature. For example, you could have a glass waterfall designed for your pool. Typically, glass waterfalls consist of a glass wall with a pipe hidden at the top. The pipe releases water in a sheath down the face of the glass.

Such a waterfall would look beautiful at one end of the pool with water spilling into the pool itself. However, you could also use such a waterfall as a focal point in the landscaping around the pool. For example, you could place the waterfall near a planter containing tropical plants. That way, you get the textural and colorful beauty of the plants next to the shimmering waterfall.

2. Cutaway Wall for a Multi-Tiered Pool

Another idea is to incorporate glass into the swimming pool design itself. One of the most stunning designs for a swimming pool includes a cutaway wall. As the name suggests, a cutaway wall involves part of the pool being cut away to reveal the depth of the water. Naturally, it's glass that holds the pool water at bay.

Such a cutaway wall works best with a multi-tiered swimming pool. In this case, you'd have the pool on one tier. Below the cutaway wall might be a fountain, planter, or sun deck. You can also have the cutaway wall be part of a raised spa that spills into the swimming pool. When deciding which wall to cut away, try to orient it so the effect creates the most drama in your landscape.

3. Privacy Wall for an Outdoor Shower

Outdoor showers are one of the new trends in swimming pool design. If your intention is simply to rinse off after a swim, an open shower is enough. However, if you want to actually bathe outside, you'll need privacy. Here's where customized glass comes into play.

Choose heavy-duty glass that's heavily frosted or otherwise patterned. Contractors can install these glass panels as privacy walls for your outdoor shower. They can even layer two or three as an entrance for increased privacy.

4. Windows in a Cabana

Another trend for pool complexes is adding a cabana. Naturally, a cabana affords you shade. However, a cabana can also serve as a gathering spot for guests and the family or even a lounge room. While you could have a simple hut-style cabana built, many homeowners opt for sturdier structures.

Create versatility in your pool cabana with windows. In fact, your cabana can become an open-faced sun room with windows on the backs and sides. You could even design the cabana with folding glass walls and doors so you can open it up or enclose the exterior depending on the weather.

5. Countertop for a Swim-Up Bar

Swim-up bars date back to the glamour days of Las Vegas when hotels built such bars to keep guests gambling while enjoying their gorgeous pools. A swim-up bar in a residential pool is a useful addition for allowing swimmers and sunbathers to mingle over drinks or snacks.

As part of your swim-up bar design, replace a traditional tile or concrete countertop with custom glass. With customized glass, you can choose any shape, including freeform. Using glass also allows you to incorporate creative features such as LED lighting. A glass countertop for your swim-up bar will hearken back to the glam days of Vegas.

Get creative and utilize customized glass around your swimming pool area. The glass experts at Kenny Glass Inc. can make your visions come true.

How to Design a Custom Mirror and Glass Wall Installation

Wed, 18 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

You know all about the benefits of mirrors and glass for your décor. You add glass panels to your cabinetry to open up the façade and mirrors to the bathroom to reflect the light. However, when you're utilizing custom-cut mirrors and glass, you can get really creative. Design a uniquely beautiful wall installation out of mirror and glass.

Choose the Wall

Your first step will be choosing a wall for the installation. Naturally, it needs to be big enough to accommodate the piece you have in mind. Likewise, it should be near a source of natural or artificial light, so it has something to reflect into the room.

If you are incorporating a lot of mirrors, you also want to keep in mind what else is being reflected. You'll want the installation to be across from something attractive, such as a light fixture or artwork.

Decide on the Size

Classic design principles state your artwork should be in scale with the rest of the room. If it's too big, the artwork will overpower the space. As Home and Garden TV points out, mirrors that are too small will result in the installation getting lost.

That said, you can play around with proportions a little bit. For example, if your wall is wide, you might decide on a narrow installation that stretches from floor to ceiling. Likewise, since your installation will be of glass and mirrors, reflection plays a big part of the effect. A small installation could be sufficient if it's reflecting something boldly colored or patterned.

Consider Styles

Mirrors, and especially glass, are mainstays of modern style. They present clear lines and manmade materials, which are hallmarks of the style.

However, mirrors and glass can be customized to produce different effects. For example, antiquing mirrors creates a retro, sometimes glamorous appeal. Frosted glass can look contemporary or even traditional, depending on the pattern.

Devise a Shape

Glass and mirrors can be custom-cut into almost any shape. If you're looking into a single piece, you could devise a shape that works with the rest of your décor. For example, you could add an oversized oval mirror to echo classical arches in your room. Or you can have a frosted glass panel installed that complements the style of your décor.

You can get even more artistic if you're considering multiple mirrors. For instance, some designers like to hang a series of mirrored tiles as a wall installation. You could choose antiqued mirrors to minimize the glare or even staggered mirrors to break up the view.

With glass, you might consider three-dimensional effects. So, you might have an organic shape full of curves in mind. Your installation could consist of stacks of curves that jut out while creating the freeform shape on the wall.

Consider Utility

Your art installation doesn't have to be completely decorative. If you're open to having the mirrors or glass jut out from the wall, parts of the installation can serve as shelving. You should give some foresight to this approach and consider what you want to place on the shelving. The décor items should further the design of your wall installation.

Illuminate the Installation

Beyond locating the artwork so that it reflects light already in the room, you'll want to illuminate the installation itself. One way is with track or recessed lighting trained directly onto the piece. This setup works if you want a subtle lighting effect, especially for more traditional styles.

If your installation is mod, consider incorporating LED lights to add a layer of light to the artwork's beauty. The LED lights can recede into the background, so they simply illuminate the glass and mirrors. Conversely, you could add tracks of lights to the wall as part of the artwork.

Don't leave an empty wall blank - beautify it with an installation of custom-cut mirrors and glass. Consult with Kenny Glass for ideas on how to approach this unique piece of art.

8 Gorgeous Ways to Use Custom-Cut Mirrors in Your Home

Wed, 14 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

You probably know the benefits of using mirrors in your décor. Mirrors reflect, so they can pull pattern, shape, and color from an object on the other side of the room to the wall they're hanging on. They also reflect light back into the room, making it feel brighter and more open.

You can buy mirrors in any home décor store as well as in other places, such as flea markets. However, if you want décor that reflects your personal style, consider decorating with custom-cut mirrors. The following are some unique decorative uses for custom-cut mirrors.

Geometric Shapes

A hallmark of modern design is minimalizing items to their basic geometric shape. You could use custom-cut mirrors to create modern art on a blank wall. For example, have your glass company cut a series of uniform blocks for you to hang in a unique pattern. You could also introduce other shapes to your one-of-a-kind mirror wall art.

Enlarged Space

Because mirrors reflect whatever's opposite them, designers like to use mirrors to make a space feel larger. For example, you could have a mirror cut so it spans from floor to ceiling. Have this mirror installed so it reflects a doorway, hallway, or window. Place a small piece of furniture in front of the mirror. This organization will create the illusion that your room features much more space.

Stairway Reflection

Having a mirror reflect a stairway is an attractive décor placement. You could approach this placement one of two ways. One, you could place the mirror at the bottom of the stairway to expand that visual space. Two, you could place the mirror so that it reflects the beauty of the balustrade and the wall behind the stairway.

Fireplace Complement

A classic placement for mirrors is above a mantle. However, you can make this placement unique by having the mirror custom cut to match the dimensions of your fireplace. This way the mirror provides a counter to the visual weight of the fireplace. Consider having a custom frame that matches the style of the mantle itself for even more cohesion.

Wardrobe Panels

Mirrors aren't for walls alone. You can reap the benefits of mirrors by having them custom cut to fit your closet or wardrobe. Not only does this visually enlarge the room, it also gives the luxurious feel of a dressing room.

Custom Tabletop

Mirrors don't have to be vertical. You can still get beautiful light and object reflection by having a custom table made. Start with a pedestal that matches the style in the room. Have the mirror cut into any shape that will complement the décor - a round tabletop is classic for side tables. Place the custom table where it reflects lights, and top it with objets d'art.

Bathroom Vanity Top

Going along with that idea, you can also have a mirror custom cut to provide a top for your bathroom vanity. Naturally, mirrors are much-used in the bathroom, but they're usually on the wall. By replacing a traditional vanity top with a mirrored one, you give your bathroom a unique ambience.

Patio Adornment

Another unusual way to use a mirror is to take it outdoors. A custom mirror can be a beautiful addition to your patio. You could have it finished with a frame that matches your patio's style, such as an ornate frame for an old world patio. Conversely, you could have the mirror installed as a backdrop for an outdoor kitchen, giving the space the feel of a chef's kitchen.

Get creative in how you think about decorating with mirrors. With custom-cut mirrors and frames, you can promote the ambience of any style of room. When you're ready to enhance the beauty of your décor, visit the glass and mirror specialists at Kenny Glass Inc .

Choosing The Right Glass Shower Enclosure For Your Bathroom

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

In the mid-1900s, tub and shower combinations became all the rage. Now, bathroom designs are trending in a different direction. An increasing number of homeowners are choosing to have walk-in showers installed.

When you settle on a walk-in shower, you must decide on an enclosure style as well. One option is to have a surround installed into a wall and enclose it with a glass door. The other option is to convert a corner of the bathroom into your walk-in shower by enclosing it almost entirely in glass. If a glass shower enclosure is your preference, here's a look at your options.

Framed Glass Enclosure

The most popular method for enclosing a walk-in shower space is with framed glass. Contractors start with lightweight tempered glass. They use a framework of metal along with seals and sweeps to construct the enclosure - the metal framework gives the structure durability.

You can choose a discreet metal frame that recedes into the background. However, some homeowners choose to create interest in their bathroom by installing a bold frame. This can show off the geometry of the enclosure, which is attractive in contemporary bathrooms. Frames come in a variety of finishes including bronze, nickel, gold and chrome.

Considerations for Choosing Framed Glass Enclosures

No matter how discreet the metal frame is, it does impede the sightline. Therefore, it may not be the best choice if you want a seamless transition between your enclosure and the rest of your bathroom. The framework can also make cleanup a little more difficult because you have seams to deal with. Those seams can trap water, which promotes the growth of mold and mildew.

Framed enclosures are the less expensive option of the two. One reason for this is that the contractors are using a lighter-weight glass. Plus, it's not quite as tricky - or time-consuming - to install a framed enclosure.

Another benefit of a framed enclosure is it can be watertight. Naturally, this prevents shower spray from entering the bathroom. However, it also allows you to transform your shower into a steam bath by adding a steam generator. That option isn't available with frameless enclosures.

Frameless Glass Enclosure

A frameless glass enclosure is a luxurious option. For this installation, contractors start with heavy-duty tempered glass. They use a system of discreet hardware, including special pivots for the door, to hold the structure together. The need for heavy-duty glass comes from the fact that there's no metal framework to give the enclosure stability.

With frameless glass enclosures, your main choice is which type of glass you want. Traditional tempered glass shows with a slight greenish tinge because of the presence of iron. Low-iron tempered glass, often called high-definition glass, is crystal clear.

Considerations for Choosing Frameless Glass Enclosures

The need for heavy-duty glass makes frameless glass more expensive. If you choose high-definition glass, this can further increase the cost. Additionally, frameless glass enclosures don't seal up the way framed ones do. This means some shower spray may enter the rest of the bathroom. You'll need to either ensure your shower stall is large enough or that the spray is positioned in a way that doesn't splash.

The biggest benefit of frameless glass enclosures is the lack of visible seams. The enclosure disappears almost completely - it doesn't impede the sightline in any way. This is especially true if you choose high-definition glass.

A frameless glass enclosure also allows you to transform your stall into a no-threshold style by choosing a curbless shower pan. A no-threshold shower conforms to universal design principals because it offers ease of access to people regardless of age and ability. This type of design makes showering more comfortable, and it can become an eventual selling point for your home.

As you approach a remodel or new build for your master bathroom, consider practicalities such as cost and use. Then, weigh those practical considerations against your aesthetic preferences. When you're ready, talk to the experts at Kenny Glass Inc. to get the shower enclosure that will best work with your bathroom décor and lifestyle.

From Windows to Mirrors: Adding Glass to Your Bathroom

Tue, 17 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Glass is a prime material for the bathroom. It's nonporous, which makes it resistant to staining and bacteria. This quality also makes glass relatively easy to clean - a daily wipe down and weekly wash are usually sufficient to keep the glass shiny.

That's another prime quality of glass - its reflective nature. Glass naturally reflects light back into a space, giving the room an airy and bright ambience.

The following are several ways you can add more glass into your bathroom's design.

Bay Window

Adding a bay window is a common remodel job. You may think of a bay window more in terms of a kitchen or living room, but it can be a useful addition to the bathroom as well. For one, bay windows add more windows to your room, which increases the natural light. You can also add side shelving for increased storage.

The big advantage of adding a bay window is the increased real estate. This can be a prime spot for locating your bathtub. The bay creates a tucked-away spot that's ideal for relaxing in a tub, especially if you have pretty views outside your window. If privacy is a concern, you can choose frosted glass or add sheer window treatments.

Glass Door

Some bathrooms open up to a deck. This is especially useful if you have a hot tub since towels and a rinse off area will be conveniently located in the bathroom. Many homeowners simply have a standard door installed at the exit.

Another option, though, is installing a glass door. This can be a standard frame with a large glass panel. However, if you want to open up the bathroom to the deck, you could have a sliding glass door installed. The increased glass allows in even more natural light. On the practical side, the sliding glass makes air control easier.

Depending on the layout of your master suite, an interior sliding glass door may also make sense. Such a construction creates a sense of unity while still allowing you to close off the bedroom to steam. If you have a lot of windows in the bedroom, this is also a good way to let more natural light into the bathroom.

Glass Shower Enclosure

Walk-in showers are one of the most popular styles. Construction-wise, they're very practical because you can fit them into almost any space.

Most homeowners choose glass for the enclosure material, though some incorporate tile and other wall materials. Full glass enclosures can be prefabricated or custom, depending on your space.

When choosing a glass shower enclosure, you'll need to pick between framed or frameless. Framed enclosures are held together with metal rims around the panes, which allows contractors to use a lighter grade of glass. With frameless enclosures, contractors use a heavy duty glass because the panes are held together with discreet hardware.

Glass doors and walls are another enclosure option. If your shower is tucked into a corner, a simple swinging or sliding glass door construction may be sufficient. Conversely, if you have a large space for your walk-in shower, Better Homes and Gardens suggests having door-less walls constructed. Fashioned out of floor-to-ceiling glass, these walls really open up your shower space.

Custom Mirrors

If light reflection is a goal, then you might as well choose something designed to actually reflect - mirrors. Bathroom mirrors can move well beyond the simple medicine cabinet door. Indeed, the mirror can provide the focal point for your vanity, and even for your whole bathroom.

Likewise, you may have other areas you can use to add a mirror to your bathroom, such as a wall which is perpendicular to a window. The mirror will catch the light from the window and reflect it into the bathroom without creating a glare.

With any mirror, the key is to choose a style that matches the rest of your dÃ©cor. So if you have a modern bathroom, you should look for styles that utilize clear geometry and minimalist framing. The opposite is true if you have a historical or glam-style bathroom.

Utilize the natural properties of glass to enhance the beauty and function of your bathroom. Talk to the glass experts at Kenny Glass Inc . about ways to customize your bathroom with more glass.

How to Optimize Your Home's Natural Lighting

Tue, 29 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Using natural lighting to its fullest potential in your home can have positive effects on your health, happiness and finances.

Studies show that exposure to natural light benefited sleep quality, increased the amount of physical activity and improved the quality of life of the study's participants. The benefits of natural light during the day include improved alertness, mood and metabolism.

Natural lighting can also help decrease your electricity bill. An experiment run by the Energy Center of Wisconsin found that using natural lighting with energy-efficient windows saved 22 percent in lighting, cooling, heating costs.

The suggestions below can help you optimize the natural lighting in your home, so you can fully experience the health benefits and financial savings that natural lighting has to offer.

Ways to Increase Natural Lighting

Many homes do not make the most of their natural lighting. You can increase the amount of natural lighting in the darker rooms of your home by using the following ideas.

Windows and Skylights

Windows and skylights are the portals between your home's interior and the natural light available outside. Make sure that the light coming from your windows isn't blocked by anything. Try to make sure that you can see your entire window from any vantage point in your room.

Use light-colored and light-weight fabric for your curtains. Avoid materials that will absorb natural light and steer towards those that will allow as much light into the room as possible.

Furniture

Heavy, bulky furniture can block light from penetrating as far as possible into a room. Using furniture that features glass surfaces and minimizes solid, opaque features will allow light to pass through instead of being absorbed or blocked.

Mirrors

Decorating with mirrors and other reflective surfaces will reflect light back into the room. Strategically placed mirrors can even reflect light into shadowed areas that aren't being directly illuminated by light from the room’s windows.

Glass Doors

Using glass in exterior doors will allow even more light into your home. But don't forget that glass interior doors allow light to penetrate even further into your home. That way, natural light can reach hallways, stairways and into rooms that have no windows. Frosted or tinted glass can be used to ensure privacy where you need it while still allowing a healthy amount of light to flow in.

Ways to Reduce Excessive Sunlight

Not all rooms need more natural light. Some rooms receive excessive sunlight, resulting in high temperatures and uncomfortable sun glare. If you have a room like this, the following resources can help you reduce the glare and heat in a light-saturated room to a comfortable level.

Low-E Windows

Low-e windows are made of low emissivity glass, which is coated with very thin layers of metallic oxides. These thin layers reflect short-wave infrared energy. Low-e windows are used to reflect heat away from your home during the hot summer months, helping you keep your home cool and decreasing your AC costs.

Tinted Glass

Tinted glass windows can reduce sun glare without ruining your view — it's like looking through a pair of sunglasses. Tinted glass can also be used for heat control and privacy in your home.

Curtains and Shades

Opaque curtains or shades can block out a lot of sunlight. But if you don't want to completely block out the light, go with a semi-opaque or sheer material that will allow some light to come in through the curtains or shades.

Inviting natural light into your home can go a long way towards promoting your health and supporting your budget. Contact the glass experts at Kenny Glass Inc. for a consultation on how we can help you customize your home with glass windows, doors and mirrors.

Sparkle And Shine: Tips For Cleaning And Maintaining Residential Windows

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Your home's windows offer you a view of the world, so it's important to keep them clean and well-maintained. If you've recently had new windows installed, you'll want to protect your investment by treating the glass with some TLC. While windows are typically easy to care for, there are some things you'll need to do on a regular basis to keep them looking and performing their best.

Windows take a beating everyday, whether it’s from sticky fingers or wet pet noses, and the marks can quickly diminish the overall appearance of a room. When you're deep-cleaning your home, don't neglect to care for your windows as well. After years of regular wear-and-tear, even if you've meticulously cared for them, you may need to eventually replace your windows. When the time comes, Kenny Glass offers several different types and brands of windows.

Following are some tips for extending the life of your home's windows and making them sparkle and shine:

1. Clean the Glass on a Regular Basis

While simply cleaning your windows on a regular basis seems like an easy task, it can go a long way in keeping the glass beautiful and in good condition. If your windows are typically covered by blinds, shades, drapes or curtains, open them once in a while to inspect the glass in the sunlight. In addition to dirt, debris and fingerprints, check the glass for cracks or any other types of imperfections.

If you have pets or small children, you may need to clean your windows on a weekly basis. If your household isn't that busy, you may be able to go a month or two without cleaning them. Environmental factors also come into play, as you may find more build-up on your windows if you live near a highway or an industrial area.

Spray a glass cleaner in an even layer all over the window, and wipe it clean with a soft, lint-free cloth, such as a chamois. For more heavily soiled windows, clean the glass with a solution of warm water and a few drops of a gentle dishwashing detergent.

Apply the soapy solution to the glass using a soft, clean sponge, concentrating on any hard-to-remove areas. Rinse the windows with plain water, and then remove the excess moisture with a squeegee featuring a rubber blade. Working from top to bottom, work the squeegee across the glass in smooth, even strokes to avoid streaking. Wipe the blade dry before each stroke.

2. Deep-Clean with Vinegar

A few times a year, such as during spring and fall cleaning, treat your home's windows to a vinegar wash. Fill a plastic spray bottle with one part distilled white vinegar and one part hot water, a solution that will remove any built-up grime and impart the glass with a sleek, crystal-like finish.

Spray an even layer of the vinegar solution over the window, and use a soft, clean sponge to work it into the glass. Don't over-saturate the glass, which will make the moisture hard to remove. Use a dry, lint-free cloth or a squeegee to thoroughly dry the glass.

To protect the windowsills during the cleaning process, simply cover them with paper towels. Avoid using any harsh cleaning products, such as stiff-bristled brushes or steel wool, when deep-cleaning the glass, as they can scratch and damage the surface.

3. Protect the Glass

Another way to keep your windows looking their best for the longest time possible is by protecting them from paint and other home improvement materials. Cover the glass with a liquid mask product, which you can either brush or spray on. The mask will protect the glass from the chemicals, and you can simply peel it off when you're done with the project. You can also cover the glass with paper and masking tape if that's all you have on hand.

The Telltale Signs That It's Time for New Windows

Wed, 26 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to windows, one of the most common questions that many homeowners have is "how do I know when it's time to replace them"? Whether you have recently bought your home and you aren't quite sure when the windows were installed or you have been in your home for several years, but you have the same windows as the day you moved in, it may be time to replace them. Here are the telltale signs that it's time to replace the windows in your home.

Difficult to Open and Close

With age and normal wear and tear, the mechanical components of a window begin to break down, which can make opening and closing them a challenge. Not only is it frustrating if the windows are hard to open and close, but when windows have been painted shut, have a damaged locking mechanism, refuse to stay open without assistance and do not seal completely, it also becomes a safety hazard

Drafts, Frost and/or Condensation

If you notice drafts, frost and/or condensation during cold weather, your windows aren't doing their job of protecting your home from the elements. When older windows get moisture trapped inside of the glass, it typically means the seal on the window is broken, which will cause your HVAC system to work harder than it should.

If you feel a draft coming through the windows, it may be due to cracks and gaps that you cannot see. Instead of covering the windows with plastic insulation during the winter, it may be time to replace them. With new windows, not only will your home be draft free, but you won't have to spend your weekend installing expensive plastic insulation on the windows.

Unexplained Increase in Utility Costs

If you have noticed a drastic difference in the amount you are paying for heating and cooling your home and the utility company has not increased their rates, it typically means the windows aren't doing a good job of insulating your home.

The longer you put off replacing the windows, the higher your energy costs are going to get. New windows with two panes of glass will help keep your energy costs low; over time, the windows will practically pay for themselves.

Increased Noise Levels

It's time to replace the windows if you notice that outside noises you didn't hear before are finding their way inside your home. If you are noticing that the neighbors and traffic sounds seem louder, it usually means that inadequately sealed windows are to blame. Modern, double-pane windows will do an excellent job of keeping the noise outside where it belongs.

You Don't Like the Way They Look

If you pull in the driveway and the first things you notice is peeling paint and rot and rust on your windows, it's a good indication that it's time to replace them. Another common problem with older windows that many homeowners may notice is soft wood, which could be an indication of water damage.

Not only will updating the windows result in lower maintenance costs, easier cleaning and smoother operation, but replacing your single pane windows with new double pane windows will provide fewer drafts and energy savings. Another great benefit with the installation of new windows is that they will give both the exterior and the interior of your home a fresh, new look.

If you aren't sure whether your windows are ready to be replaced or not, contact Kenny Glass Inc. We'll be happy to take a look at them and provide recommendations on new styles that can help cure all of the problems you are currently having with your windows.

The Benefits of Glass Shower Doors

Thu, 02 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

What do you imagine in a dream bathroom? Some of today’s favorite decorative elements include tile, luxurious vanities, and fixtures that match specific interior fashion styles. Your dream bathroom is likely to be very different from what other people are looking to create. One element that seems be common across a variety of different tastes is glass shower doors .

Openness & Light

One of the challenges of creating a beautiful bathroom is that these small rooms are often cramped and dark. Even if there’s a window in your bathroom, you may find that it is difficult to bring in as much light as you’d like. A glass shower door creates a feeling of openness and allows existing light to flow freely into the shower.

Easy Cleaning & Maintenance

Glass shower doors tend to be very durable and they are often free of the frames and hardware that make other doors difficult to clean. These doors are easier to maintain than other types. When you spend time in your bathroom, you won’t have to worry about difficult cleaning.

Additional Home Value

Once you’ve had the glass shower doors installed, you’ll find that these functional elements age well and result in increased value to your home. There are plenty of options for you to consider. Options include style choices such as:

Circular
Triangular
Boxy shapes
Various textures
Colors

Have you considered putting glass shower doors in your home? If you would like to discuss the choices available, contact Kenny Glass Inc. today.