In modern architecture and projects using aluminum joinery, not only the profile design is of paramount importance, but also the type and finish of the glass. Choosing between different types of decorative and functional glass affects aesthetics, durability, and range of applications. The most common variants are enameled glass (enamel), glass with ceramic print , and Lacobel glass . Although they may appear similar at first glance, their properties and intended use differ significantly.
In this article we will explain:
- how is it different ceramic enamel od ceramic print,
- what is the difference between enamel and lacobel,
- which solution works best in combination with aluminum joinery in external and internal architecture.
Emalit – enameled glass
Emalite is tempered glass, which is then coated with a layer of special ceramic enamel. The glass then enters a tempering furnace, where the enamel is fused into the glass surface.
Characteristic:
- Color fastness – the enamel is permanently bonded to the glass, making it resistant to UV radiation and weather conditions.
- Security – the glass is tempered, so it has increased mechanical and thermal resistance.
- Matte or semi-gloss finish – the visual effect depends on the enamel and technology used.
- Uniform color – a wide range of colors possible, although less intense than in the case of organic varnishes.
Application:
Emalite is particularly suitable for ventilated facades , external structures, facade cladding, glass blinds, balustrades and elements exposed to weather conditions.
Lacobel – lacquered glass
Lacobel is float glass with a layer of organic varnish applied to one side . Unlike enamel, this glass is not tempered (although technologies exist that allow for subsequent tempering of lacquered glass in special versions).
Characteristic:
- Intense color and shine – the varnish surface gives the effect of depth and high gloss.
- Delicacy – Lacobel glass is not resistant to weather conditions, so it is only used indoors.
- Easy to care for – the smooth, shiny surface is easy to keep clean.
- Color variety – a wide range of colors, from classic to designer shades.
Application:
Lacobel is mainly used in interiors – in built-in furniture, partition walls, decorative panels, kitchen and bathroom wall coverings.
Enamel and ceramic printing – the most important differences
Ceramic enamel (Emalit)
- That's it uniform covering coating applied to the entire surface (or large parts) of the glass.
- It is most often created in one color (white, black, gray, RAL colors), without patterns.
- It is used to achieve an even, covering effect – e.g. for masking strips in facades.
- The end result is a smooth sheet of glass with a uniform color.
Ceramic printing (screen printing or digital printing)
- This is the application technology pattern or graphic using ceramic paints.
- It can be implemented by the method screen printing (repeating patterns, e.g. dots, stripes) or digital printing (solid images, gradients, custom themes).
- After printing, the glass also goes into the hardening furnace – the paint is fused into the sheet and becomes part of the glass.
- The end result is decorative or functional glass – you can obtain, for example, sun protection glass with a raster pattern, facade graphics or advertising elements.
Summary of the differences between enamel and digital printing:
- Enamel = uniform, covering coating in one color.
- Ceramic print = pattern/graphics applied with ceramic paint (screen printing/digital), giving more aesthetic and functional possibilities.
Both methods are resistant to UV, weather conditions and mechanical damage because the paint becomes an integral part of the glass after tempering.
Emalit and Lacobel – the most important differences
| Characteristic | Enamel (enameled glass) | Lacobel (lacquered glass) |
| Production process | Applying ceramic enamel and hardening | Applying organic varnish |
| Resistance | High – resistant to UV, moisture and weather conditions | Low – for indoor use only |
| Security | Hardened, resistant to impacts and temperature changes | No tempering as standard, glass is fragile |
| Finish | Matte or semi-gloss | High gloss, depth effect |
| Color palette | Rich but subdued | Very wide, saturated colors |
| Application | Facades, elevations, balustrades, external elements | Interiors: furniture, walls, decorations |
Application in aluminum joinery
Aluminum and glass are a perfect pair – lightweight, durable aluminum profiles blend perfectly with various glass options, and the choice between enamel, digital printing, or lacobel depends on the intended use of the project.
- Aluminum joinery in exterior architecture:
In the case of facades, ventilated facades or structures exposed to atmospheric factors, the clear leader is enamel or digital printIts resistance to UV and moisture ensures long-lasting color and a safe and aesthetically pleasing structure. - Interior aluminum joinery:
When aluminum profiles are used inside buildings – e.g. for office buildings, partition walls or interior design – it is worth reaching for lacobelIts high gloss, intense colors, and modern finish enhance the design of the rooms while maintaining the lightness of the entire structure.
Summary
The choice between enameled glass and Lacobel comes down to the question: should the glass be used outdoors or indoors?
- If we care about durability, resistance and safety in facade structures – we choose enamel or digital print.
- If design, shine and intense colors in the interior are your priorities, the perfect solution will be lacobel.
Thanks to the use of both technologies combined with modern aluminum joinery , architects and investors have a full range of possibilities at their disposal – from minimalist facades to impressive interiors.
