Glass has been the go-to material for photo frames since they were invented, and for good reason. It’s clear, protective, and gives your favorite images a polished, professional finish. But not all glass is created equal.

In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of glass used in picture frames, explain what makes one better than another, and help you decide what’s right for your needs, whether you're framing a favorite memory or designing a product for resale.

Tip: Want to compare glass with other materials? Read our Glass vs. Acrylic Photo Frames guide for a full breakdown.

What is the Glass in Picture Frames Called?

Most commonly, it's referred to as picture frame glass or glazing. This term doesn’t just denote regular glass, but encompasses any transparent material used to cover and protect artwork within a frame, which can be any of the following:

  • Tempered glass: A strengthened, heat-treated glass (more on this shortly)
  • Acrylic glazing: Not technically glass, but often used as a lighter, safer and more cost-effective alternative 
  • Museum glass: Ultra-clear, anti-reflective, and UV-resistant glass, used in high-end framing
  • Conservation glass: Offers UV protection to help prevent fading and deterioration
  • Laminated glass: Made of multiple glass panes bonded together with a plastic interlayer, which holds the glass fragments together when broken 

Is There a Difference Between Window Glass and Picture Frame Glass?

Yes, and the differences are more significant than you might expect.

Window glass is typically float glass, designed for structural purposes and to withstand outdoor conditions. It’s thicker and heavier, but not necessarily optically clear glass. It may have slight color tints or visual distortions that you wouldn’t want for a framed artwork or photo.

Picture frame glass, on the other hand, is chosen for its clarity, thinness, and finish. It’s designed to showcase artwork or photos, not just act as a barrier.

Plus, both tempered glass and acrylic glass, like that used in Adventa’s picture frames, are much safer than standard glass. If it breaks, tempered glass shatters into small, blunt pieces rather than sharp shards, while acrylic types of frames fracture into larger, blunt-edged pieces. Both of these glazing options are ideal for homes, offices, or retail environments.

How Thick Should Picture Frame Glass Be?

Picture frame glass typically ranges from 2mm to 4mm thick, depending on the size and purpose of the frame.

  • 2mm is common in smaller or budget-friendly glass products
  • 3-4mm is more robust and used in premium or larger-format frames

At Adventa, our Glass Mount frames use 4mm tempered glass, offering a perfect balance of clarity, durability, and safety. 

What is the Best Glass for Picture Frames?

The best picture frame glass depends on what you’re framing and where it will be displayed. Will your cherished memories be in direct sunlight? Are you mounting a poster in a busy office? Do you want to protect and display stunning artwork? No matter your priorities - whether it’s safety, budget, visual impact, or preservation - there’s a material that fits.

Tempered glass is a popular choice for everyday use, gifts, and retail products thanks to its excellent clarity and shatter resistance - it’s the standard we use across many Adventa frames.  

For high-end pieces, museum glass offers superior protection and presentation, with anti-reflective properties and UV filtering that make it ideal for galleries, heirlooms, or fine art. 

Alternatively, acrylic (or plastic glass) is lightweight and impact-resistant, making it ideal for children's rooms, offices, or any setting where safety and durability are priorities.

In our view, it’s ultimately tempered glass that offers the best balance of value and clarity, especially when paired with custom screen printing for that extra branded touch.

What Can I Use Instead of Glass in a Picture Frame?

If glass isn’t right for your needs, there are some excellent alternatives:

  • Acrylic (Perspex): Clear, shatter-resistant, and lightweight - ideal for custom shapes, larger frames, or where safety is a priority
  • Polycarbonate: Similar to acrylic but even more impact-resistant, typically used for specialized applications
  • Styrene: A thin, flexible plastic sheet - cost-effective, but can scratch or warp over time
  • No glazing at all: You could simply leave the image open, without glass

At Adventa, we offer both glass and acrylic options across our frame range, giving our customers the freedom to choose the best material for each use case.

Ready To Choose Your Frame Glass?

At Adventa, we offer both premium tempered glass and high-grade acrylic options, giving you the freedom to choose what’s best for your project or product line. Whether you're creating personal keepsakes, custom corporate gifts, or retail-ready frames, our expert team is here to help you bring it all together, beautifully.

Get in touch with us at +1 551 587 7789 to find out more about how Adventa can take your retail offerings to the next level.