The use of Glass Curtains® has surged in recent years. Today, these European-origin solutions are an increasingly common sight around Singapore.

Glass Curtains® are frameless tempered glass panel systems. Suitable for a wide range of applications, they provide modern alternatives to traditional sliding glass doors and windows. 

These fully retractable glass panels are easily stackable, and can keep out rain, flying pests, and even noise from busy roads or loud neighbours. They also do this without obstructing views!

As more property owners consider transforming their semi-outdoor space, we’ve also received more queries at ClimaShield about Glass Curtains®. In this article, we address some of the most frequently asked questions from customers about getting Glass Curtains® in Singapore.

Q1: Are Glass Curtains® permanent fixtures like windows or doors?

Glass Curtains® are not permanent fixtures. Unlike traditional windows or doors, they function more like your standard curtain. The key difference is that they’re made of glass. 

The panels that make up Glass Curtains® can be retracted, similar to conventional curtains. They can be slid, swung, and stacked to one side, to be as unobtrusive as possible.

This provides Glass Curtains® with a flexibility that permanent enclosures and installations lack. The tracks for the panels can even be surface-mounted rather than embedded in your flooring for added convenience. Again, this is similar to standard curtain tracks vs. door tracks. 

Even with this retractability, Glass Curtains® offer solid protection. The 10mm thick glass panels ensure stability against outside intrusions or elements like rain or wind.

Q2: Where can Glass Curtains® be installed?

Glass Curtains® can be installed wherever there are walls and suitable ceilings and floors. 

They are most commonly used in balconies and patios by Singapore homeowners, but can also be found in the interiors of homes, where they may serve as seamless partitions for large spaces. They can also be used as part of the storefront for businesses such as restaurants and gyms.

Their adaptability means they can enhance both residential and commercial environments.

Q3: What is the thickness of Glass Curtains®? Is there a gap when fully closed?

The glass thickness for Glass Curtains® is 10mm per panel. Each panel is constructed from tempered glass, which provides significant sturdiness with clarity. 

This thickness gives the panels high reliability in use, allowing panels that are taller than 2.1m to still boast the strength that users expect of the product.

The gap between the panels is just 2 to 3mm, which is currently the smallest gap in the market for frameless glass panel systems worldwide. 

This provides Glass Curtains® superb resistance to outdoor forces. For instance, they can withstand a wind load of up to 250 km/h. With only the smallest gap between panels, sound dampening is also preserved, reducing the chance of loud whistling noises during windy weather.

Q4: How much space do the Glass Curtains® take up when fully opened and stacked to the side?

The wall frame with the side lock handle is 85mm wide. Each panel requires around 30mm of space when stacked. 

The total width of the stacked Glass Curtains® will thus depend on the number of panels you have in your system. 

As an example, a 10-panel system will take up 355mm of space. That’s because 9 panels need 30mm each. Meanwhile, the last or tenth panel will take up 85mm with the handle.

As for the total depth, it depends on the width of each glass panel. Most customers choose to have panels of around 500mm to 800mm.

Q5: Are the height and width of the glass panels customisable?

Yes, Glass Curtains® panels can be customised to have specific heights and widths. There are optimal height and width ranges recommended, however: 

• For height, 120 to 270cm. Ideally, it should not exceed 300cm.
• For width, 50 to 75cm. Ideally, it should not exceed 90cm. 

These recommendations have been designed to maximise product function; observing the suggested width keeps the panels’ drawn-and-stacked width manageable.

For those looking to minimise the protrusion of the bottom track, it’s also possible to have the bottom track concealed in the floor. All that’s required is a groove of 55 to 60mm deep and 45mm wide, for the bottom track to be placed into.

Q6: Can I choose to have the panels open inwards or outwards? Can I choose which side of the room the panels are stacked?

Yes, you can determine both of these. Simply let us know beforehand so we may install the panels in your preferred configuration. Panels can be stacked to the left, right or to both left and right sides.

Q7: Is the bottom track needed to install Glass Curtains®?

Yes, the bottom track is necessary for Glass Curtains® installation. This is because the glass panels are bottom-weighted; the weight of the glass panels sits on the bottom track, instead of being supported by the top track. With bottom-weight systems, the panels do not swing, and they glide smoothly and easily.

For those who prefer less noticeable tracks, you can choose to have them recess into the floor.

Q8: Is there any special maintenance required for Glass Curtains®?

No special maintenance is required of Glass Curtains®, aside from normal cleaning of the glass and occasional vacuuming of the tracks. 

The tracks can also be wiped with a soft damp cloth. It is not recommended to use lubricants or grease on the system.

Q9: Can Glass Curtains® help block out noise?

Glass Curtains® have been shown to reduce noise by at least 25 dB. This makes them a good solution for those who want to reduce ambient sound in their space.

For example, we have customers who live near busy roads, construction sites or have noisy neighbours. They love having Glass Curtains® because it reduces so much of that noise, and allows them to enjoy their space in peace. We also see clients using them to create separate, quieter areas in communal rooms.

On top of noise reduction, Glass Curtains® can also offer odour reduction. The system can help you keep out unwanted smells such as cigarette smoke, BBQ smoke, haze and car exhaust.

Q10: How long will it take for custom fabrication and installation?

The length of time it takes for Glass Curtains® fabrication depends on the order size. In most cases, a custom fabrication requires around 3 weeks.

Installation typically takes less time, with most installations finished in 2 to 3 days. 

Do note that the installation time will also depend on the scale and complexity of the order, as well as the accessibility of the installation site.

With our team at ClimaShield, the installation process includes protecting the site before and tidying up the site after the installation. You’ll be able to start moving your furniture in right away.

Discover more about Glass Curtains®

Have more questions about Glass Curtains® or want to install them in your space?

Reach out to our experts at ClimaShield who can address all of your concerns and queries. You can even book an appointment to visit our showroom and see Glass Curtains® in person.

Please contact us through our form or by emailing us at info@climashield.com.sg.