Authentic Georgian grilles for Proto

"...the 3M™ VHB™ tape forms a strong, durable bond which has considerable resistance to moisture and UV light."

3M™ VHB™ Acrylic Foam Tape has enabled Proto Glazing to improve the appearance of its window bars -- by eliminating air bubbles. Because the windows look so authentic, they have been specified to replace traditional Georgian windows with double glazed sealed units in a wide range of residential and commercial properties, listed buildings and new building projects.

Glazing bars are bonded with newly developed 3M™ VHB™ 4941 Tape, to the outer faces of both panes of glass in the sealed units to provide the authentic appearance of traditional Georgian windows.

The company's chairman, Peter Proto, chose the 3M product primarily because of the improved appearance and strong bond that the tape gives, after learning that a similar VHB tape had been used for glazing bars in the refurbishment of the Dorchester Hotel.

3M™ VHB™ tape is suitable for use with primed timber, aluminum (brushed, bright or anodised) wet-painted or powder coated aluminum. Its resistance to plasticiser migration makes it ideal for bonding flexible PVC and other plasticised materials.

Both the glazing bar and the glazed unit must be carefully prepared using 3M™ VHB™ Tape to prevent contaminants such as grease and dirt affecting the bond. After removing the liner, the tape can be applied to the glazing bar and gives an instantly strong bond which requires no curing time. However bond performance will increase with time.

Firm pressure from a rubber roller will achieve total adhesive to surface contact to build maximum bond strength. Once the liner is removed from the tape, the glazing bar can be applied to the surface of the glass panel. With the application of pressure from the rubber roller the 3M™ VHB™ tape 'wets out' and provides a bond line of consistent thickness.

As the 3M™ VHB™ 4941 tape is applied, it conforms to any surface irregularities which ensures that the bond is consistent along the glazing bar.

This eliminates the unsightly marks sometimes seen through glass panels where air has been trapped by less comfortable tapes, sealants or liquid adhesives when applied to the glazing bar.

In addition to the quality finish and aesthetically pleasing appearance which is important to the glazing market the 3M™ VHB™ tape forms a strong, durable bond which has considerable resistance to moisture and UV light.

The process of applying 3M™ VHB™ tape has considerable benefits for companies such as Proto Glazing. It is quick and simple to use, and unlike silicone adhesives commonly used for glazing bar applications VHB tape does not require any clean up time. Its convenient application cuts labour costs and speeds up production time. Proto Glazing Chairman, Peter Proto feels this is a real benefit "Because it is so easy to apply" he explained. "It is difficult to make mistakes and there is no need to take short cuts, so quality control is improved by using tape rather than silicone adhesives."