How to Choose the Right Glass for Tabletops & Mirrors

Glass tabletops and mirrors do more than reflect light — they define a room’s style. Whether you’re designing a sleek modern living room, a classic dining space, or a spa-like bathroom, the type of glass you choose matters. The right choice balances safety, strength, and aesthetics to ensure beauty that lasts.

At City Glass Company in Janesville, we specialize in crafting and installing custom glass solutions for homes and businesses across southern Wisconsin. Here’s what you should know before choosing glass for your next tabletop or mirror project.

Understanding Tempered Glass: The Safe Choice for Tabletops

If your glass tabletop will see everyday use, tempered glass is the industry standard. It’s heat-treated to be up to five times stronger than regular glass and designed to break into small, blunt pieces instead of sharp shards — greatly reducing injury risk.

When to choose tempered glass:

Dining or coffee tables

End tables and countertops

Desks, shelving, or commercial applications

Tempered glass is not only safe but also available in multiple finishes — clear, frosted, tinted, or even low-iron for a crystal-clear appearance.

Annealed Glass: Best for Decorative or Protected Applications

Annealed glass (sometimes called “standard glass”) is the most traditional type, offering optical clarity and affordability. It’s best suited for decorative pieces that won’t face heavy impact or heat exposure.

When to choose annealed glass:

Protected display cases

Wall-mounted shelves or cabinetry fronts

Mirrors (where strength requirements are lower)

While annealed glass is less expensive, it’s more prone to cracking under stress — so it’s best for accent applications rather than load-bearing surfaces.

Specialty Glass for Style and Function

Beyond standard options, City Glass Company offers specialty glass designed to elevate both aesthetics and performance:

Low-Iron Glass: Ultra-clear and color-neutral, perfect for high-end tabletops or mirrors where true color and detail matter.

Frosted or Etched Glass: Adds privacy and design texture — ideal for bathroom mirrors or office settings.

Tinted Glass: Reduces glare and adds a modern touch to furniture and mirrors.

Laminated Glass: Features a protective interlayer that holds the glass together if broken — an excellent option for safety or soundproofing.

Each type has its own personality, allowing you to tailor your glass design to match your home’s style and your lifestyle needs.

Mirrors: Balancing Reflection and Durability

When selecting glass for mirrors, clarity and backing quality are everything. At City Glass Company, we use high-quality silver-backed mirror glass that resists oxidation and maintains reflection accuracy over time.

For added sophistication, consider:

Beveled edges for depth and detail

Custom shapes for statement décor

Antique or tinted finishes for warmth and character

Whether for a bathroom vanity, gym, or decorative wall installation, your mirror should be as functional as it is stunning.

Work with a Professional for Custom Fit and Safety

Glass is precise material — and the smallest measurement error can affect safety and fit. At City Glass Company, we custom-cut and polish every piece to exact specifications, ensuring smooth edges, perfect clarity, and seamless installation.

We’ll help you determine which type of glass best suits your environment, design goals, and budget — so your tabletop or mirror looks beautiful and performs flawlessly for years to come.

Bring Clarity, Safety, and Style to Your Space

From elegant tabletops to perfectly cut mirrors, City Glass Company delivers craftsmanship you can see and quality you can trust.