Curved Glass FAQ

• Aesthetic Appeal: Creates stunning visual impact with flowing, modern lines that catch and reflect light beautifully
• Structural Benefits: Distributes stress more evenly, often providing superior strength when properly engineered
• Space Enhancement: Makes rooms feel larger and more open while eliminating sharp corners
• Unique Design Possibilities: Enables architectural features impossible with flat glass, from sweeping facades to curved partitions

• Architectural Projects: Storefronts, curtain walls, skylights, and feature windows
• Commercial Interiors: Reception desks, display cases, conference room partitions
• Residential Applications: Curved shower enclosures, curved windows, custom furniture pieces
• Specialty Projects: Museum displays, retail fixtures, artistic installations

Yes, we work with architects and designers to create virtually any curve radius. We can match existing architectural elements or create entirely new curved profiles based on your specifications.

At Flickinger Glass Works, we specialize in gravity bending (also known as slumping). In this process:

• Glass is heated in a specialized furnace until it reaches its softening point
• The glass naturally conforms to a custom-made mold under its own weight
• This method allows for precise control over the final curve while maintaining the glass’s structural integrity

• Annealed Glass: Standard float glass suitable for most curved applications
• Tempered Glass: Can be curved, but tempering and bending must occur simultaneously (we work with partners for tempered curved glass)
• Laminated Glass: We provide in-house laminating services for enhanced safety and security
• Insulated Glass Units (IGU): We fabricate curved insulated glass units for enhanced thermal performance
• Specialty Glass: Textured, tinted, or decorative glass varieties

Film Applications (coordinated through specialists): Various protective and decorative films can be applied after curving, including safety films, UV protection, tinting, mirror films, and anti-graffiti coatings.

• Maximum Size: Limited by our furnace dimensions and handling capabilities
• Thickness Considerations: Thicker glass may have curve limitations
• Material Availability: Glass sizes are limited by what suppliers provide for specific glass types
• Project-Specific: Each curve is evaluated individually for feasibility

We use several measurement methods:

• Radius Method: Specifying the center point and radius of the curve
• Chord and Rise: Measuring the straight-line distance and maximum depth of curve
• Template Method: Creating physical templates for complex or irregular curves

• Detailed drawings or sketches with dimensions
• Desired glass type and thickness
• Curve specifications (radius, chord, rise measurements)
• Quantity needed
• Timeline requirements
• Installation location and any access considerations

• Standard Curves: 3-4 weeks from approved drawings, templates, or measurements, and receiving deposit
• Complex Curves: May require additional time depending on specifications
• Large Projects: Timeline varies based on project scope
• Rush Orders: Available when possible for urgent timelines

• Precision Tooling: Custom molds created for each unique curve specification
• Quality Control: Multi-point inspection process throughout manufacturing
• Dimensional Accuracy: Ensuring proper fit and specifications are met

We can work with specialized partners to ensure proper fabrication of often complex geometry. Minimum requirements are 1/4″ thickness and 12″ radius for tempering applications.

Yes, various films can be applied after the curving process is complete, including safety films, UV protection, tinting, mirror films, and anti-graffiti coatings. We coordinate with specialists for these applications.

We focus on fabrication and can recommend experienced glazing contractors familiar with curved glass requirements.We focus on fabrication and can recommend experienced glazing contractors familiar with curved glass requirements.

• Minor Scratches: Often can be polished out by professionals
• Cracks or Chips: Typically require complete replacement
• Seal Issues: Weatherstripping and glazing compounds can usually be renewed

• Curve Complexity: More complex curves require additional processing
• Glass Type: Specialty glasses and coatings affect pricing
• Size and Thickness: Larger pieces require more specialized handling
• Film Applications: Additional protective or decorative films if requested
• Laminating Requirements: In-house laminating for safety or security applications
• Quantity: Project scale affects overall pricing
• Timeline: Rush orders may require expedited scheduling

Yes, we ship curved glass nationwide and internationally. We have experience with proper packaging and shipping methods to ensure safe delivery of curved glass products to distant locations.