Question Need some kind of spacer between glass and metal sheet

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J

JWB9999999

SGF, Supreme Grumble Framer
Joined
Feb 22, 2009
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Meridian, MS
I have a project that is a bit different from my norm. Customer has a large piece of etched glass, and a large piece of sheet metal. They are approximately 3' x 5'. The steel will be behind the glass for its visual effect. I'm framing them in a wide flat black Decor moulding (that was suggested by someone on here).

My issue is, the steel and the glass need to be spaced apart per the customer's request. I normally use a hollow rectangular plastic spacer 1/8" or 1/4" in width to space glass away from mats. But I'm afraid that the weight of the steel and the weight of the glass are such that they would actually crush the spacers than I normally use.

Yes, if the sign is mounted perfectly vertically, then there would be no pressure from the glass nor the steel upon the spacers, so plastic would do. But as we know, most frames lean some when hung, which leads to my worry of the plastic spacers I use being crushed.

Of note is that the steel, while heavy enough, is actually NOT stiff at all and wants to bend and collapse upon itself. Given the size of the frame, I'm not at all sure that the steel won't actually bulge forward towards the glass in the middle (a convex deformation) if it is only supported from the sides.

Ideas?
 
Arlo spacers are solid plastic and they come in 1/8" and 1/4" clear or black. They have a peel and stick ATG adhesive on one edge. Available from most framing distributers, LJ etc. or www.arloinc.com
As for the flexing in the middle, possibly a small clear plastic dowel in the center if it won't show behind the etched glass.
Another option would be to mount the sheet metal to a solid, but not too thick backing, Sintra, Gator, etc.
 
Solid spacers as mentioned and definitley mount it to a stiff substrate like gator assuming this steel is thin and possibly flexible. How deep is the frame?
 
A metal working shop could cut some aluminum strips for you as well.
 
spacer

Wood and metal should not be in proximity to each other. The polymer spacer is a better choice, or a spacer made of conservation quality board, cut on a wall mounted cutter.



Hugh
 
Does that mean I should line the inside of the frame to keep the metal from touching wood?

What about the suggestion to attach the metal to some kind of board behind it to stiffen it? Out of the question? What's the potential harm?

John
 
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