ATM Mirror and Glass Blog...Enjoy Your Visit!

Updated And Professional Photos Taken Of ATM Glass's Dwell Featured Project

2012-01-26T14:24:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful surprise today! The February 2010 issue of Dwell Magazine's front cover featured an amazing restoration of an AIA award wining home - the feature, titled "Mod Men" was a huge success and wonderfully popular throughout the architectural community. We were lucky enough to be part of this project. The home is all glass and our scope consisted of removal of the existing door system and refit with a new energy efficient system. We had also provided a vertical pivot window (imported from Europe), mirrors and glass partitions. The crucial element was keeping the home as original as possible and maintaining the original design. For the full feature, along with construction photos, please click here (an unbelievable story)- the homeowners Todd Goddard and Andrew Mandolene are highly regarded in modern architectural design and restoration. What they had done to restore this home is truly a marvel. So...back to our wonderful news, Andrew had e-mailed me this morning with some professional photos of the project ! Enjoy!

Glass counter tops- our newest fabricated addition...

2012-01-11T16:39:00.000-05:00

We have recently launched our new "extra" heavy glass product line! This is an exciting addition - with capabilities of glass up to 1-1/4" thick, it's easy to see why this versatile product is quickly becoming a designer favorite! Glass can be clear (with low iron and patterned glass options) or back painted for a special touch. It's most popular application has been for bar, vanity and counter tops, where glass can be made to accept various sinks and fixtures. For an even more dramatic effect, glass can be back lit with LED lighting either in white light or "millions" of colors. Photos to follow! Please view our website for photos of this product at: www.atmglass.com

ATM Mirror & Glass- 2011 Year In Review!

2011-12-22T15:43:00.000-05:00

As we bid adieu to 2011 we would like to take a moment to reflect on the highlights of this past year. As always, we extend a huge "thank you" to our friends, family, co-workers, clients and vendors for helping make progress possible.

Completed Projects:This year brought a close to several exciting projects

restoration project: 1950's AIA modern home, Ossining, NY: updating all single pane glass to over-sized insulated (low e) , replacement of aluminum sliding doors and windows to insulated (while retaining original look and architectural element of the home), interior glass partitions and shower panels.

Duration: 4months

(products used: solar seal, western, rebco, ATM Mirror and Glass)

restoration project: 1950's modern home, Pound Ridge, NY: updating all single pane glass to over-sized insulated (low e). Replacement of extensive aluminum sliding door systems to custom fabricated wood sliding doors.

Duration: 2months

(products used: solar seal, park-vue, ATM Mirror and Glass)

glass railing system/landscape architecture: Estate home, Greenwich, CT: extensive exterior glass railing system for exterior of multi-terraced garden and balcony. Core mounted, 1.9 stainless steel posts, through-the-glass handrails.

Duration: 11/2010- 11/2011

(product used: CRL, ATM Mirror and Glass)

Mavis Tire Supply Corp.: Commercial: Locations: Mt. Kisco, Elmsford, Walkill, Middletown, Millwood- NY: updating existing spaces and refitting acquired stores, as well as interior herculite entrances for corporate.

Duration (on going)

(products used: various)

Bear Mountain Inn Restoration: Governmental Project ( Palisades Interstate Park Commission): Bear Mountain, NY. Furnish/Installed new frameless shower enclosures for the guest rooms at the historic inn. The reopening of the inn has been long awaited and was met with great fanfare. Opening gala was a wonderful event that included state officials including Governor Andrew M. Cuomo. Our shower doors were shown as part of a feature on the inn on NYC CBS (channel 2) http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2011/11/11/bear-mountain-inn-reopens-friday/

Duration: 2 weeks

(product used: CRL, ATM Mirror and Glass)

Business Updates: This year we underwent extensive changes within our facility.

We added new machinery and equipment to our shop including

- Baveloni glass washing machine

- Sulak double drilling machine

- Bromer glass table (air/tilt)

- Bromer storage drawer systems (11 drawers)

- Quatrolift mule

We expanded our facility!

-added additional production floor space

-added new showroom

-added new reception and private office

New Products

- now offering even more patterned heavy glass! for product samples please visit our showroom

- dreamline and serenity direct roll sliding shower doors

- leak proof shower door hinges (for frameless shower doors only)

- Extra thick glass available- 1" + (for use in bar, vanity and counter tops)

Special Projects/Events:

-On line building professional webinar program- representing glass and glazing professionals
-Contributions to US Glass spider clamp system "Top Trends"
-Contribution to consumer affairs on properties of safety glass products
-Visited with our friends from New Zealand at the (great to meet you in person Bryn!)

So what's ahead for 2012? Look for us in USGlass Magazine! A special "Thank you" to Megan Headley!!!

Thank you all again for helping make our progress possible. 2011 has been a great year!

Season's Greetings from all of us at ATM Mirror and Glass!

Does your home need a "Fresh Pair Of Eyes"?

2011-12-08T10:49:00.001-05:00

Interior design, home staging...a cure to the humdrum. Let's face it, at one time or another we've all reached the almost immediate observation that our living space has grown tired and is in dire need of something new. If any of you are like me, you watch TV, read the magazines and have the sudden desire to take on the seemingly approachable art of interior design. And if you're also like me, it (more often than not) ends in great disappointment as it never seems to come together properly (or at all). People, there are do it yourself projects and then there are those undertakings that are best left to the folks that have vested in proper education. Interior design is one of them. Trust me.

before and after

Joanna Cohlan, founder of Fresh Eyes For Your Home is a full service interior decorating consultancy Joanna works with her clients to express their own taste and make their own personal statements. We have worked with Joanna on numerous projects and trust me, she is someone's number to keep close at hand for interior design and home staging. New home, old home or home your wishing to sell. She is a resource and a professional.

Service is Joanna's mantra, and she excels at "reading a room," helping clients who are overwhelmed by the many design options out there to make the right choices for them, saving money in the process. For some, Joanna begins with a blank canvas, creating a room from nothing. For others, she uses what they already have: editing, refining, repurposing and redefining. This may be as simple as changing the color of just one wall to accentuate a particular architectural detail, or transforming an old dresser into a vanity for the master bath. And for those who are contemplating selling, Fresh Eyes For Your Home will transform that home back into a house, ready for the market and "best in its class." Joanna Cohlan has extensive experience working in every style and in every room, including kitchens and baths. She particularly loves an open and challenging floor plan, but she has never met a tudor or colonial that she hasn't liked.

"My passion is to create environments that are functional, comfortable and beautiful - real rooms for real people. These environments become even more exceptional because they are expressions of artistic vision, inspired by global travel, and grounded by formal training. I specialize in unusual pairings of styles, colors and textures to create dramatic, yet cohesive and livable spaces. This is done by elevating taste, not budget, and by listening to my clients' needs and preferences so they are confident in their choices and delighted with the results."

Personally, I don't know about you folks, but that's a lot of thought going into a space- would you be able to consider all of these details? Yeah...me neither. You're not alone.

Joanna can be reached for her services:

Phone: 914-391-3697
joanna@fresheyesforyourhome.com
Project portfolio can be found via her website: http://fresheyesforyourhome.com/

Joanna Cohlan is the founder and owner of Fresh Eyes For Your Home. She holds a BS in Psychology from Boston University, an MBA from Babson College, and was trained in interior decorating at SUNY/FIT. She is also an accredited staging professional (ASP), a member of IAHSP, and a former member of the Interior Refiner's Network (IRN).

November's News And Happenings At ATM Mirror and Glass

2011-11-16T11:57:00.001-05:00

Always working to keep things fresh and exciting- for both our company and clients. Here are a few updates we would like to share:

Project Completion: Bear Mountain Inn, Bear Mountain, NY. This was an exciting project for us to be part of. Our project scope included the furnishing and installation of frameless shower enclosures for guest rooms in the newly refurbished inn. The inn had been closed for nearly 7 years and the reopening of the historic building was met with great anticipation! A full overview of the project and fanfare was featured in the Gannett newspaper. It can be viewed on line here: http://www.lohud.com/article/20111110/NEWS03/111100377/Bear-Mountain-Inn-ready-reopen-restored-preserve-its-history

New Staff!
Ahhh....it's always a good sign when you can announce job openings- hopefully a sign that things are taking a turn for the better in a strained economy... We had a record 154 applications over a 2 week period. Arriving to our final decision for the 4 openings available was an extremely tough decision; so many applicants had so much to offer. In the end, we decided on four candidates who displayed our same enthusiasm for the service business with a great desire to learn the glass-trade. We are sure our clients will welcome them just as we have.

Product News:

Unfortunately, our very popular product, 3/8" thick antique glass (used for shower enclosures) has been discontinued for distribution in the US per Schott (the manufacturer, Germany). Schott holds the patent on this product and unfortunately, the process in which they make this glass has had (costly) technical issues. They do plan to reintroduce this product in the future when the line can be restored, but as of current the product is out of production. On a positive note, we do have limited stock here at our facility...we are looking to introduce a few alternate heavy glass options.

We still do provide the entire Master (France) series for heavy glass (Carre, Ligne).

ATM Glass Around The Web...

2011-10-21T10:42:00.000-04:00

Our friend Andrew* just emailed us a list of some popular and helpful sites that feature our company (or even mention...we're happy enough with that!)

Some of these sites offer some great information a about architectural glass, shower doors and the like...take a moment to browse! Thanks Andrew!

Industrial Interface- Glass and Metal Industry leaders
Glass Industry Info- great source for architectural glass professionals
loqal.com- a new directory service growing in popularity
Small Businesses to Keep Your Eye On
USArchitecture
Insider Pages
TotalHousehold- Similar to Angies List- Just without membership
The European Glass Shower Door. Bringing Luxury To Everyone’s Home.
How To Obtain An Innovative & Reputable Architectural Glass Company
Architectural Glass Company In NY Has Found A Way To Surpass Competition

Bio:
Andrew R. Barajas had spent the first 25 years of his career working specialty trade field consultant and compiler. Having the unique ability to tackle daunting tasks by finding the right person for each obstacle; thus saving larger construction companies revenue lost in poor estimating, poor workmanship and punch list disasters. He has since gone on to offer his services to trade publications. He offers a critical and insightful thought into the demanding needs of the modern homeowner and contractor alike.

Tips and Tricks For The Best Glass Shower Door

2011-10-19T21:40:00.000-04:00

Tips and Tricks For The Best Glass Shower Door

Thanks Andrew

Rumor has it.... From ATM Glass

2011-10-19T12:17:00.001-04:00

...And an interesting week so far.

Rumor has it....
I am a firm believer that the world has gotten smaller, the internet, social networking and the like have made virtually everyone neighbors. This is something that I actually enjoy greatly. It connects you with others that share your common interests, lines of work and even helps build communication between clients (even if just prospective) and offers a greater understanding of "the world around you". But there is always a "catch" in any system and imperfection is expected. I feel the obligatory need to offer a small bit of clarification regarding an odd, yet only recent, question..or should I say "statement" that has been made regarding our firm. I am guessing that this is the result of some popular internet directory confusing our company with some others out there...but just to clarify (as again, it was mentioned to me not once or even twice) so just to reiterate some:

ATM Mirror, Inc and ATM Mirror and Glass, LLC operate out of Buchanan, NY (Westchester County). Yes, we do have an Ossining, NY phone number; the result of our business at one time being located within that town. For all practicality, when we had moved to our "new home" some years ago- we kept our phone number as it was heavily advertised on our vehicles, publications and the like. This is a common practice for a business.

We are not affiliated now or in the past; with any other glass companies currently operating out of the Ossining area. We do not own, manage or otherwise conduct business operations out of that area by our business name or any other business names.

It has also been brought to our attention that there is an ATM Glass, Inc located upstate from us in Putnam County, NY. Again, we do not own, manage or otherwise conduct business operations out of that area.

I had on several instances this week (and it's only Wednesday) been confronted (by phone) by confused clients swearing they had called me for a price, dropped off an item or did not receive a return call. Having no record of any of these people, they said they either visited our Ossining location or Carmel location. Neither of which are our company. Very strange indeed.

We plan on investigating this matter more closely and correcting whichever publication may possibly be a the root of the confusion.

Robin Selesky
Operations Manager
ATM Mirror and Glass
ATM Mirror, Inc.

October 3-7, Week Over-View

2011-10-07T11:31:00.000-04:00

And it has been an exciting week "around the shop", here are some of our updates.

We are in the final leg of our expansion/renovation (phew!). Keeping things moving in production and installation, while working through our renovations has been taxing for all- outside trades included. All of the showroom displays have been relocated to the "new space"- however our final reception desk area will still be under construction for a while. In the meantime, we have a temporary fix. The private offices are now functional and the cabinetry for that location has all been installed, computer systems up, phone systems up (yahoo).

In the shop: all fabrication machinery is back up on line and in it's permanent place. One drawer system still needs to be assembled and stocked...(Rome wasn't built in a day). Three cutting and fabrication tables are back in order and operational.

Webinar participation: We started the "meet the builder" webinar program this week...it has been pretty fun, great experience to see what homeowners and builder are looking for. Has been very insightful.

We would like to extend special recognition to staff member, Joe Klein. Joe, while at a traffic light in the village of Ossining, spotted a group of "middle-school" aged kids bullying another much smaller child. The incident quickly escalated and became physical while the smaller child fell to the ground for cover. Joe ran out of the truck and broke up the attack and yelled for help. Joe's selfless action was commendable and we are proud to have him as part of our staff.

Meet The Glazier....Questions Asked 10/05/11

2011-10-06T10:42:00.000-04:00

From [Brandyn8744, Connecticut]:

"Glad to find a glass company here today! Earlier this year (March) I had my usual glass guy install a glass railing on a deck and patio for my customer, I generally find him to do a great job but I really have a mess on the installation and my customer is holding back money from me. The glass on the deck is un-even at the top (but it was even when they first installed it) , he came out a few times to adjust it but it keeps coming out of whack and on the patio the situation is worse, the concrete is breaking away and the metal that the glass is installed into is horribly corroded. I am really open to any/all suggestions. I sold this to the customer and I am thinking it was a huge mistake"

Hi Brandyn- I have a pretty good idea as to what is happening, without having all of the details as to how the system was installed- and which type of system is being used (i.e. base shoe, post etc) there are a few different possibilities. For the deck area, it is possible the glass is shifting as the deck shifts.. It is important the railings installed onto a deck area are installed into a significant structure and not just the decking itself (a 2" x 10" is generally our minimum requirement). The deck must be level, if a 2" x 10" is not existing, it must be added. For the patio area, it sounds like the base shoe was installed without using a Bituminous coating. Any areas where an aluminum shoe is installed and it will be butting up against concrete a bituminous coating or other approved barrier must be used or the shoe will corrode and concrete will degrade. Unfortunately, the only way to correct this problem is to remove the entire shoe- replace what requires replacement, re-install with coating or barrier and pour new concrete. There is no short cut to this. Glass railings are a wonderful addition to any home or business. I am sure your usual glass installer had the best intentions but perhaps this was something he hadn't done before in an exterior application; which has special conditions.

Robin Selesky
ATM Mirror & Glass
High End Custom Architectural Glass Fabricators, Westchester County, NY

Meet The Glazier...For All Of Your Architectural Glass Needs-Webinar

2011-10-06T10:28:00.001-04:00

We had been contacted over the summer and invited to be part of an on line trade resource for homeowners and builders, representing Architectural Glass. For those of you familiar with our company, you know we are huge into social networking.

The best part about this program was that it did give the tradespeople a unique opportunity to hear what client's wants and concerns were when performing a remodel project. The biggest drawback is that the webinar is available to homeowners/builders across the country and there are regional fluctuations in design requirements.

We thought we would highlight some of the biggest questions presented relating to our trade - thank goodness we are provided with a transcript!

Question-[atm mirror & glass] from [margetteJ, New Jersey]:"I have been getting some quotes for frameless shower doors at my home, some people are providing detailed estimates others are somewhat vague, in a nutshell I am getting a great deal of variation in description and cost and some of the information being explained is conflicting. I am actually TOTALLY confused. What type is the best? What should I expect to pay for a better glass door? Is there anything that should be avoided? Why is one guys door almost $900.00 less?"

Hi margetteJ!
This is a problem we often hear from clients as well. Unfortunately, there are also quite a few answers to this. I will do my best to explain what causes price fluctuation and what sort of components your enclosure should consist of. I am not in any fashion criticizing anyone else's business- just explaining what can cause great price variations. There is quite a variation in interpretation for what a frameless shower door is- so please be an educated consumer and be sure the enclosure you are picturing in your mind (or by photo) is what your glazing contractor is specifying.

How is the enclosure being installed? Glass clamp installation will generally cost more than installation with "U" channel as there is additional glass fabrication required to house the clamps - and the clamps themselves are more expensive than the channel- the clamps are composed of brass whereas the channel typically is made of aluminum. The clamp installation method is generally the most preferred as it creates a more frameless appearance, and the clamps themselves are viewed as an architectural element in styling. The only time the channel method is generally sought after now is when it will be "buried" behind a sub-straight where it is not visible- in this case the glass appears to be floating. The method for installation (using either clamps or U channel) should be clearly defined on your contract/proposal- if not, be sure to ask for it to be included!!! Generally price variation- approximately 10-20% more for clamps versus channel.

The Learning Curve: If you receive a quote that is drastically lower than someone else, chances are you're having a less qualified installer perform the work OR some major corners are being cut. Now when I say drastically lower, I mean your getting prices of $1500.00-$1680.00 from others then a company comes along and gives you a price of $750-800.00. There is a reason why. You are not getting the deal of a lifetime. Some of the factors that can cause a price to be significantly lower:

>Unskilled or entry level installer
>Company doesn't carry proper insurances
>Company is using illegitimate workers
>Improper glass is being used for the shower door (very rare this corner is cut- but we have seen it)
>lesser quality hardware is being used.

For example, we are quick to upgrade a handle or include glass protective coating- as these are stock items and we can absorb the costs. We can even upgrade to say a starphire glass versus a standard clear glass since we stock both. If you get a price that is drastically different than someone else and the same products are being described- either cross them off your list or ask them why is their price so much cheaper. If they say something like, "we buy glass direct"- ask who they buy from. there are only a handful of glass suppliers (PPG, Pilkington, Walker,GGI, AGC) and their business names WILL be on file with the flat glass suppliers. Or visit their operation. You can see right away if someone is housing a fabrication plant or running a business out of a garage. Hopefully this makes sense?

Price that is significantly higher? Well first off, find out what exactly they are specifying- including layout. There are factors that can contribute to higher costs:
>clamp installation versus "u" channel
>configuration variations (glass to glass hinging is more expensive than wall mount or pivot hinging)
>header-less designs are more expensive than with a header
>1/2" glass is more expensive than 3/8"- (be sure to find out if you are getting standard clear or more costly low iron products)
>hardware construction- brass is more expensive than aluminum
>installer- a senior level technician is more expensive than someone who is at entry level

I would suggest taking one of your mid range proposals and your proposal that is significantly higher and ask them to be compared- in writing. A legitimate company will NOT have any problem specifying part numbers that will be used for the construction of your enclosure with the manufacturer name. Also ask for a layout drawing- so you can see what is being proposed. If both are in par, the more significantly more expensive guy may not have as great of buying power as the lower cost or might be looking to line his pocket more. Always always always get details put in writing with a drawing when possible. The much more costly company could be offering a much higher end product- and if that's the case, ask your mid range guy to price the same way. At the end of the day, see where they compare.

A qualified glass installer will always have no problem at all spending time and communicating about your needs.

Robin Selesky
ATM Mirror & Glass
High End Custom Architectural Glass Fabricators, Westchester County, NY

Around The Shop- Fall 2011 Updates At ATM Glass

2011-09-14T11:34:00.001-04:00

We have been busy with so many changes- all for the good. In the last 6 months we have added a new glass washing machine and drilling machine- both which I personally think have been shop favorites. Both inclusions have exceeded our expectations and have really allowed for an excellent finished product.

We have also included a new drawer system (Bromer)- as our flat glass stock has grown significantly.

ATM Glass is expanding! We are now taking over an additional 4000 sq.ft space adjacent to our current location. The two spaces will be joined allowing for more offices, reception area/showroom as well as additional shop floor space. Our previous office/showroom/reception area will be demolished - making for more production space in the shop area. Those of you familiar with our place of business, the office and showroom entry will no longer be next to the shop entrance (garage door)- the new entry will be on the "long" side of the building. We will also be acquiring more parking spaces as well. So it has been an exciting time.

New Faces! We have employed several new staff members, all are exceptional and we are happy to have then as part of our staff. We have two new residential field technicians and two new employees for our commercial end. We are still accepting applications for the following positions:

Residential Glaziers: Senior level experience (10+ years). Proficiency in frameless shower door installation a must. Experience with glass railing systems a plus. Must be comfortable fabricating heavy glass. (Machinery training provided by ATM Glass)
Residential Glaziers: Entry level. Proficiency in cutting glass- will train right candidate for fabrication of heavy glass. Experience with machinery operation a plus (Z.Bav). Must have experience installing framed and semi frameless shower doors, insulated glass, mirrors etc. Some level of fabrication in glass is expected, but will train right candidate.
Fabrication/Shop Staff: We are looking to add to our shop fabrication staff. This is an entry level position, but some experience in a glass shop is required (helpers welcome to apply)- but we will train for the following tasks: heavy glass fabrication, insulated glass production, standard glass fabrication.

Must be English speaking and detail oriented. There is paperwork required for this position

Serious inquiries only. Please email your resume to: info@atmglass.com. Please view our website for an overview of our company at: ATM Mirror and Glass, Westchester County-NY

"Fabulous Fabrication Event- 2011"

2011-03-14T10:57:00.004-04:00

And its that time of year again! Our fabulous fabrication event offers great discounts and upgrade options for our frameless shower enclosures at prices unmatched by any- all without cutting any corners on quality! Many free glass option upgrades, hardware style upgrades and super fast delivery...this promotion is limited but has been loved by all who haven taken advantage.

How do we do it?
since we are shower enclosure manufacturers, there's no middle man. We can offer unsurpassed quality control, design freedom and have greater buying power than others. During our fabulous fabrication event we can pass additional savings for volume purchasing onto our clients!

So let us price your next shower enclosure project and we can show you just how much you'll save!

(Offer is applicable to true frameless shower enclosures only. Promotion excludes Century Bathworks brand sliding shower doors).

For Consumers: Before buying any shower door- please read-the real scoop behind glass shower doors...what you need to know.

2010-12-30T11:19:00.009-05:00

Ignore the sales pitch...get the facts.

It's amazing the things you come to take for common knowledge, especially when it pertains to your line of work. You're surrounded by what is your "common knowledge" all day long...and as such.. it has become...well common..to you.

But what about to a potential customer? It's your job to educate them and provide them with the information regarding their possible purchase with the most accurate information possible. You don't want to be misleading in any fashion because that would have them disgruntled...and of course, you don't want that. We are always trying to "get in better touch" with out clients...understand their needs, questions etc. But sometimes we can loose sight of this- even if not intentionally. And your job can actually become more arduous when there is a lot of "junk science" information out there.... this was the case with a recent couple who had visited our Buchanan, NY showroom/production facility.

Meeting with Mr. & Mrs. "Jones".

Mr. and Mrs. "Jones" (for namesake) had visited our showroom looking for a frameless shower enclosure. Per usual, we walked them through the displays, operated the enclosures, discussed options, discussed their needs. Rather routine. I had then explained that our enclosures were all manufactured here at our facility and explained the advantages for that. Then I was asked a question..or series of questions that honestly was totally new to me..

"I heard that no-name enclosures are not as good as ones made by a company or out of a box".

I was then given a series of so-called "facts" as to why.....

Ok...this sort of took me for a loop, because I honestly couldn't understand the logic behind this statement. Then it hit me....if the client doesn't understand how an enclosure is made..what the "behind the scene workings" are...how would they know? Yes, someone did inform them of this so called "fact" and yes, it is actually comical. I having been in this industry for a number of years and our company being a 4th generation glazing construction firm- I may take some information as "common" but perhaps it isn't? And if there are people out there who are making such claims about "boxed" products, well...these claims need to be rectified somewhat. I say this not just to benefit our company per se but also all of the other firms out there who do fabricate their own enclosures- many of which are my colleges.

incorrect information #1: client was told: "a company that does only shower doors is better than using a glass shop"

OK, this is actually humorous. The "only shower door company" if they are buying a boxed product, who do they think fabricated the glass for their boxed product? a glass shop. From a professional stand-point, a skilled glazier (glass worker) will be more versed in working with...yes, glass (as in your shower enclosure) than someone who just installs someone else's product. One is an installer, the other is a craftsman. One works with the glass to make it what it is for you...the other takes the craftsmans work and puts it in. Our techs (as is the case in most professional situations) are trained as glass workers and installers. we do have some staff here that strictly does installs- but when there is a glitch or obstacle on site they call the tech who engineered and fabricated the job.

incorrect information #2: client was told: "but if you make your own, your glass and your hardware is "no name"

Another glass industry fact (perhaps the shower door only person wouldn't know this because they are not a glass shop as they say....)- in North America there are only a handful of glass manufacturers- PPG, Pilkington, Guardian, Schott-Lithotec and AGC . Glass shop "x" is buying the same glass as boxed product "x" unless they are buying glass in bulk from overseas (china). Glass shop "x" is buying the same hardware as boxed product "x" unless they are buying in bulk from overseas. All shower door hardware is made by either CR Laurence Company (largest shower door hardware distributor globally, US Horizons or a small margin of other hardware manufacturers who all of dubbed CRL's original hardware concept. This is a standard common knowledge fact in the glass industry. Yes, the boxed product will be re-branded with their name, perhaps a logo etc. But this is a fact. All the shower door only guy is doing is becoming a middleman. The glass shop who makes their own is AVOIDING THE MIDDLE MAN.

incorrect information #3: client was told: "but what about quality control who supervises the construction and safety, I want to know how long a product has been around"

sigh....I will try to answer this avoiding my face from hitting the keyboard.

#1: have you ever been to a large scale manufacturing plant? picture an assembly line. I am not mocking this line of work at all. what I am trying to say is that the enclosure is built by a person who trained to perform one task, probably never installed a shower door and could really care less to tell the truth. he has a specific job to do and will do it and pass on the next phase to the next person in line. The only truly skilled person in the manufacturing plant is the guy who is cutting your glass- who will also be the highest paid person on the floor as well. But remember, he is not installing your enclosure, he hasn't seen the job site and considered the installation variables. He is making something per information put in front of him.

#2: quality control. to understand quality control, you have to understand what this means in the glass industry according to the national standards committee for tempered glass products. There is a great amount of leeway for tempered glass including surface imperfections, size tolerances and the like. "Boxed" companies love this. If something is flawed, they will quickly remind the buyer of "acceptable flaws"- and trust me there are quite a few. And if something is wrong on their end...you will wait to have it fixed - until it is put back into fabrication on their assembly line. And you will try to explain that you dont make this product to your customer...and your customer will not care and remind you that, " You sold it". Being in this industry for as long as I have been, I can say first hand- this is their GREATEST FLAW. Their quality control - by ALL BOXED PRODUCTS is so poor this is the #1 reason why many glass companies STOPPED USING THEM.

We welcome anyone into our production area to see what is involved with making a shower enclosure. We will provide you with engineering reports, let you see our hardware and its construction and so on. Call the boxed company product and ask if you can see their line? If you ask to see data on who makes their glass or hardware I can assure you, the glass guy who is making their own has the same data.

#3: safety. these enclosures are made of glass, and yes glass can be dangerous. No one will know this better than a skilled glazier. Many boxed products use hardware that meets the *minimum* safety requirements. Such as using aluminum construction hardware when a brass construction hardware should be used. Or using a thinner type glass than what should really be used...but is legally passable. I personally see this frequently when providing consults on previously installed projects that we are asked to correct. It is amazing how different the perspective is when you personally are measuring, engineering and installing something versus making it and never seeing the person you are installing for face to face. I trust you- the off site manufacturer is not connected to an installation the same way the person is who makes your product and sees you face to face in your home. In addition, ANY reputable glass company, who provides you with a CAD drawing is working off of a program (yes, we all pretty much use the same one) that will NOT allow you to construct something exceeding the glass or hardware's safety limitations.

So I write this on behalf of the other glass companies out there who are making your own shower enclosures...you need to educate your clients because there is apparently a lot of "junk science" information being put out there- that yes, may seem totally absurd to you...the glass professional...but the homeowner only knows what is presented to them.

A well respected person in the glass industry once said to me regarding our production line when visiting our facility,

"You know, when you're good enough, you've become educated, you've invested in the technology and the education...you become the manufacturer...not just the installer of someone else's product...because then that just makes you an installer and not a glass professional...you have been trained as a skilled glass worker not just some guy relying on someone else's ability. You have come to be confident in your own. And that in itself makes you better than the "joe-schmoo" who doesn't even know how to make what he is selling ".

Thanks!

Article Author: Robin Selesky: Operations Manager, Engineering/ATM Mirror & Glass

LED In Action!

2010-11-03T15:26:00.004-04:00

today we installed a glass bar top (1-1/2" thick) - thermoformed glass- custom shaped with a cast pattern. One of our guys took this video of the completed installation:

Cliff Hanger....as featured on NBC- channel 4-NYC

2010-07-12T14:02:00.005-04:00

Back in 2007 we embarked on a venture that involved a residential front make over of a grand magnitude. The project involved the total "make over" of a modern home in Armonk, NY- to not only add upgrade the physical appearance of the home, but to add energy efficiency to a older (but spectacular!) home. The home recently sold for 6 million dollars. The home was featured on NBC channel 4 (NYC) and LX.tv. What made this home so amazing was that it was situated along a (now defunct) quarry. This added to the majestic feel and overall splendor of the location. However, this also created some unique challenges to our scope. The project was not for the weak of heart or inexperienced as a large majority of the installation took place off of scaffolding or required rigging over high elevations. Kudos to our crews who helped make this project a reality.
Our scope included: New windows, multi sliding door, glass railings (interior/exterior), shower enclosures, mirrors, structural glass/skylite glass.

June 14th-18th 2010.....Our Machinery Updates

2010-06-11T14:15:00.003-04:00

We will be closed for the week of June 14th through 18th. Our fabricating lines will be down for re-tooling/upgrading. We apologize for the inconvenience, however to keep providing our clients with a quality product that meets your needs this down time is unfortunately required.

Frameless shower doors...fabricating the dream bath

2010-06-11T12:19:00.013-04:00

If you had read my previous post...you will have heard me mention the obstacles of the frameless shower door in the American bath- and touch base on how far we have come from the days of making a European door work in the American bath...we have sure come a long way since the turn of the millennium and have made many advancements to keep the European look and add the American function to this popular enclosure. Just take a look....

from its design phase to fabrication...we're keeping a close eye on quality control. Using only brass constructed fittings...and providing our clients with a conceptual drawing as to how their enclosure will look

The above picture shows a true European styled door. Note- no sill..also the entire bath area is tiled.

and no two are alike...

and the frameless enclosure is still every bit as popular as when it first made its début. Only now it's much better! With many more glass options to choose from, hardware finishes to compliment everyones decor and endless configurations. It's components are durable and designed to last for many years to come. Unlike it's aluminum constructed counter-parts- the frameless enclosure uses brass construction fittings which are designed to hold the weight of the "heavy glass" that is used with this enclosure. And safety first! All glass is fabricated in such a manor to prevent glass from "slipping free" from its fittings.
Yes, they cost more than the aluminum framed doors- but with the components that are used in this enclosure, it truly will be the last enclosure you buy.

For more about frameless shower doors, visit our website
www.atmglass.com

Frameless shower doors...European design fitting American function...the quest continues!

2010-06-11T11:42:00.004-04:00

Like any other industry, the glass industry sees the trends and tricks changing from year to year. In the 80's we mirrored anything and everything. Malls, bathrooms (yes, often even the ceilings), Bedrooms (sometimes the ceilings in there too!). Then around the year 2000...we starting taking them all down. Most companies saw more revenue in their shops with mirror removal then installing new mirror...at least residentially. It was around this time that the frameless shower door fashion came in it's place. Everyone wanted the "European" styled shower enclosure, and the glass companies now had a new "friend". But not without it's particular challenges. Where the companies had fought with mirroring the impossible in the 80's, they now faced the obstacle of how to give a European styled door to Americans. Where's the challenge you ask? Lets look at the European bathroom. Simply put...its a room designed to be exposed to water from showering. You have your drain in the shower area and frequently you have a drain in the center of the bath itself. Everything is tiled (or covered with another "waterproof" material). The American bathroom is quite different. We want to bring our luxuries with us everywhere- including the bathroom. There are baths with wood floors, baths with TV's and stereo systems. And above all, we like to see water "kept in it's place"- and it's this definition that has made fitting the European styled door into the American bathroom a bit like putting a square peg in a round hole. We've all seen the commercials- a European named hardware company showing what seems to be hundreds of body sprays cascading over the user. What they arent showing is that in the European bath, probably 50% of that water is falling out of the shower area and into the bathroom floor. A feature that is highly unacceptable to Americans. Heck- we just paid 20k for that floor! Chances are the European bath has a flush sill (actually no sill) at the shower area- and here in the USA we have at least a 4" sill. So when we anxious Americans wanted to get the elegant look of the European shower door (that this actually referred to as a "screen" overseas)- what a nightmare the glass company was in for! The install looked great, the homeowner was ecstatic...and then they turned on the water. The water from their body sprays ended up just where they did in Europe- on the floor, their hand-held controls created havoc and in small showers- the water cascaded off of the user creating something of a lake on the bathroom floor. All of us were quickly receiving calls from upset clients asking why our door leaked and what we were going to do about it. We've all had the calls and we all were in for a big surprise once we knew just what it was that we provided. The European screen....the Europeans who felt that water on their bathroom floor was all "part of showering".
Years later, the industry had moved ahead and worked around the obstacle as best as possible. Having to incorporate polycarbonate strips around any and all operating parts of the enclosure (which still to this day has yet to be perfected in adhesion...sigh..the wows of glass to plastic bonding. they just don't get along) . Yet, still from time to time a client will present to you a photo of a German bath- elegant in design, but poor in American function- showing raised fixed glass panels, flush sill and body sprays pointing at the door and say, "this is the enclosure I want....just like this". We say, "sure....we just need to modify a few concepts here"...and well...the rest is history.

For a full product overview on our frameless shower doors installed in westchester county and surrounding hudson valley area, visit our website www.atmglass.com

Winding down White Acres- Hyde Park, NY

2010-06-11T10:25:00.008-04:00

Since the summer of 2007 we have been part of a magnificent project located along the Hudson River in Dutchess County, NY. A private residence (name withheld pending approval!)- consisting of a main house and guest house. Truly unique in form and function- in other words- "amazing". Serving as the homeowners retreat for entertaining, relaxing...and kicking back to enjoy the majestic scenery. Now in the Summer of 2010 we see our venture on this project winding down as it nears it's completion and we were extremely pleased to be part of it all. This property will be heavily photographed and publicized in upcoming segments of the New York Times and other popular publications. Our scope of the project consisted of the following:

Exterior curtainwall and bump outs
Exterior glass railings at terrace locations
Interior glass bent railings
Interior glass railings
Interior guard rails
Interior glass entrances
Exterior pool glass railing system
Frameless shower enclosures
Mirror work

We will be providing pictures of our finished work at this project shortly....

Systems/Manufacturers Used:

Vista Wall (Curtain Wall Sections-USA), Old Castle Glass (Insulated, Flat and Bent Glass Supplier/Fabricator-USA), Greenfield (Vista Wall Panels-USA), Weiland (flush sill "lift slide" doors-USA), CRL (glass railing systems, shower door patches, straight handrails, misc. patch fittings-USA) SRS Metals (bent hand rails-USA), Beretta (all glass door hardware-Italy), Hydroscreen (specialty shower door systems-Australia)

....hopefully we didn't leave anyone out??? If so, we will correct.

Glass Railing Gala

2010-06-10T18:04:00.000-04:00

If ever there was a year that was about glass railings- it was 2010. Versatile and airy, glass railings systems have proven popular in residential and commercial spaces. Endless options, configurations and priced for every budget...this look is affordable and functional!

for more about our glass railings, please visit our visit our website:
www.atmglass.com

loving LED!

2010-06-10T16:15:00.000-04:00

Dramatic or subdued...LED lighting brings new life to your glass project. True white light provides accent and functionality and RGB...with its "millions of colors" and endless effects- makes your space seem dream-like. Commercial and residential applications- indoors or out.

Glass counter/bar tops- add elegance to functionality!

2010-06-10T15:41:00.000-04:00

Homeowners and designers alike have fallen in love with glass counter tops- and why not? Impermeable surface, durable and easy to clean- glass is actually quite ideal. But how about taking it up a notch? Thermoformed cast glass offers a natural finish- with an array of textures and colors available...and yes, even shapes! Looking for an even more dramatic answer to the common counter? Add LED lighting- available with either pure white or RGB "millions of colors" and you have got a look that will have jaws dropping! Now of course, the LED look may not suit the average kitchen...but truly amazing for your bar area- just take a look at these photos. We will be featuring more LED applications shortly. We have fallen in love with the effect and so have our clients!

What makes us different...

2010-06-10T14:30:00.000-04:00

We offer many specialty services and products that are unique to our company. Including:

Glass rigging, lifting and hoisting: used for over-sized glass handling and placement. Using specialty machinery and years of expertise our crews have handled and installed glass into unique applications throughout the tristate area- including over-sized insulated glass units up to 136" x 102" in size. We offer this service to homeowners, GC's and other glass and glazing companies throughout the tristate area. Glass rigging is a tedious procedure that requires a great deal of precision and skill due to the potentially dangerous nature of the process!
Glass polishing and beveling: we house all of our own Italian high production glass and mirror polishing and beveling machinery. Our machinery is manufactured by Z.Bavelloni and Zaffarani and produce furniture quality edge work. The advantage is that we are able to offer a great deal of quality control and a shorter lead time for a product that the majority of glass companies have to "send out" for. We also service many of the area's glass companies with this service as well.

Specialty hardware: we offer the area's widest variety of specialty hardware for shower enclosures, glass entrances and glass railing systems. If you're looking for that truly unique look or have a project that requires a specialty function we have a hardware type to suit your needs. We have companies that supply us with fittings from Germany, Italy, Australia and of course the USA!

Patterned/Specialty "heavy" glass: looking for 3/8" or 1/2" thick glass in any other type but clear can prove to be challenging. We have had a tremendous request for "more possibilities" from homeowners and designers alike. As a result, we had added a wide variety of specialty glass to our heavy glass lines. Including the popular European styles: Master Carre, Master Pointe and Cast glass and some real specialties such as Thermoformed glass and translucent finish glass . These styles are loved by designers and homeowners who were looking to make a truly unique statement

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For a full online portfolio of our glass and mirror products, services and reviews, visit our website
www.atmglass.com

A bit about our company....

2010-06-10T13:31:00.000-04:00

We would like to take a moment to introduce all of you to our company. We are a full service architectural glass and mirror company. Our facility offers a full spectrum of glass and mirror products and services for both residential and commercial clients.

We focus on projects both large and smaller scale*- with equal attention to both. The vast majority of our services include frameless shower enclosures, glass railing systems, all glass (a.k.a. "herculite") entrances, store-fronts/mall-fronts/residential-fronts and insulated glass. However, we also provide a great deal of table tops, glass furniture, replacement insulated glass units, custom cut mirrors and glass. We work closely with homeowners, designers, builders and trade professionals to ensure your finished product is just as you had imagined.