Explore glass surface options I Millwork & Cabinetry I REHAU

Shape timeless spaces

Which glass surface is right for you?

Glass surfaces enchant and elevate interiors with their understated refinement and multifaceted depth. From dazzling polished finishes to soft powdery finishes, they offer a rare luster that captivates in any setting. Whether featured as a backsplash or shower wall for a spa-inspired bathroom, or as kitchen cabinetry for clients seeking a little extra visual intrigue, glass surfaces span a spectrum of design expressions from low-key to vibrant.

Let’s explore key features to look for in a glass surface, and compare the advantages and limitations of two popular options: tempered glass and acrylic glass laminate.

What should I look for in a glass surface?

1. Break and shatter resistance:

Provides peace of mind and supports safe, durable designs

2. Scratch resistance:

Maintains a smooth, flawless finish throughout daily use and cleaning

3. Easy for the shop to process:

Simplifies production to help keep your project on schedule

4. Color and design options:

Offers flexibility to complement any aesthetic and meet specific project goals

What are popular glass surface options?

1. Tempered glass

Strong material with custom color

Tempered glass is treated by heat or chemicals for increased strength compared to regular glass. It offers unlimited color options through painting, making it a great choice for designers who prioritize customization. With its cool-to-the-touch feel, tempered glass delivers a sleek, sophisticated aesthetic. However, it comes with several considerations: tempered glass is heavy, susceptible to shattering and cannot be processed on a jobsite.

2. Acrylic glass laminate

Lightweight, durable & versatile

Acrylic glass laminate is a thin sheet of polymer, often multiple polymers co-extruded, with a clear top layer that mimics the look of back-painted glass. It delivers high-end color depth and a mirror-like quality, while being 10x more break resistant than real glass. Combining aesthetics with durability, this option is ideal for designs that demand both visual appeal and long-term performance. Acrylic glass laminate features optimized formulations for color fastness and UV stability, maintaining its rich color over time. Additionally, it can be processed onsite with standard woodworking tools for production flexibility. However, it is not recommended for horizontal surfaces requiring high-temperature resistance.

Selecting a glass surface is dependent on your design vision, durability needs and production goals. By understanding the strengths and limitations of tempered glass and acrylic glass laminate, you can create interiors that radiate subtle sophistication.

Looking to bring glass trends into your next project? Explore our RAUVISIO crystal acrylic surface:

Mine a gem as rare as you with RAUVISIO crystal

RAUVISIO crystal™ acrylic surface, found in its polished and natural finishes, brings cemented energy to achieve a rarified luster. The lightweight, yet durable polymer surface creates a deep and multifaceted aesthetic when finished with beveled REHAU LaserEdge technology.

Learn more Request a sample

Overview of glass surface options:

	Advantages	Limitations
Tempered glass	Unlimited color options with paint Cool to the touch	Can shatter Heavy weight Cannot be processed on jobsite
Acrylic glass laminate	10x more break resistant than glass Can be processed onsite with woodworking tools High-end color depth and mirror-like quality Optimized formulations for color fastness and UV stability	Not recommended for horizontal surfaces requiring high-temperature resistance