Mirrors are an inexpensive and eye-popping way to add beauty to any space. The right choice of mirrors will add to the aesthetic of a humble home. Before we delve more into the most affordable and elegant types of mirrors, let us learn more about the classification of mirrors based on make to make the pick easier.
Essentially, there are three types of mirrors based on their construction.
1. Plane Mirror
Plane mirrors are mirrors with a flat surface that reflects. Scientifically, when a light ray hits a plane mirror, the angle of incidence of the light ray will be equal to the angle of reflection of the light ray. Here, the angle of incidence is the angle between the incident ray of light and the normal surface.
Applications: Plane mirrors can be found in your houses as looking glass and solar cookers among others. It is also used in the science field as a periscope in submarines and other scientific instruments.
2. Concave Mirror
Concave mirrors are also otherwise called converging mirrors. The flat reflecting surface of this mirror is away from the incident light, i.e., has an inward recess. So they reflect light rays into one single focal point. They are also known as curved mirrors.
Applications: They are used in reflecting telescopes, in illumination applications, and to focus light in torches, spotlight, and headlamps.
3. Convex Mirror
The other name of a convex mirror is a converging mirror and its flat and reflecting surfaces bulge towards the direction of the light source. It thus cannot focus light and thereby form a virtual image inside the mirror. These mirrors cannot project an image on a screen as the image is inside the mirror. So, the image will seem larger as its distance to the mirrors becomes less.
Applications: Convex mirrors find their applications as a passenger-side mirror in a car, as you may already know or have guessed.. These are also found in the hallways of buildings, hospitals, schools, and hotels to mention a few. They are usually found mounted on a ceiling or a wall where roads or hallways intersect each other.
The Best Decorative Types Of Mirrors For Your Home
Decorative mirrors could be convex, concave, or plane. They are differentiated based on their aesthetic designs. Your home will have the next level of beauty added to it when decorated with mirrors. Here are a few types of mirrors that you can choose from for your beautiful home-
- Clear mirrors
- Silvered mirrors
- Antique mirrors
- Circular mirrors
- Framed mirrors
- Hanging mirrors
Let’s find out more details about each of these mirrors and why they could be a blessing to your pretty home.
1. Clear Mirrors
Clear mirrors are those that are reflective on one side and clear on the other side. Thus, it’s also called a two-way mirror and has a characteristic silver backing with copper and paint. These mirrors can be placed just anywhere in your home or in your personal space. Mirrors with less iron make for an ultra-clear screen which will reduce the slightly green hue that most mirrors produce. These mirrors will give your space an all-white interior with pure clarity. Two-way mirrors find their applications in a variety of designs such as:
- Home security
- Commercial surveillance
- Hiding valuables
- Monitoring employees
- Bank surveillance
- Showroom surveillance
- Smart mirrors
2. Silvered Mirrors
The most commonly found mirror, the silvered mirror is designed with annealed glass or tempered glass that is brushed on a conveyor belt while manufacturing. Silvering is the local term for the chemical process of eating reflective mirrors. If you thought that it’s silver that is chemically processed, you’re in for a surprise as it is an aluminum oxide that is cooled and stuck onto a glass sheet in a vacuum. This will coat the backside to obtain the required mirror effect. There are several applications for this type of mirror. Some of the most popular ones are:
- Two-way mirror
- One-way mirror
- Convex mirrors for easy viewing and safety
- Rearview mirrors (both one-way and two-way mirrors)
- Decoration
- Signaling technology
- Leisure projects
- Entertainment
3. Antique Mirrors
Antique mirrors feature coatings and tints that are reminiscent of the old era. For an old is gold look yet bursting with chicness, antique mirrors are a great choice. You could choose a concave mirror (one that curves inward) to create prominent reflections. However, convex mirrors create the opposite effect to help you see around the corners for oncoming traffic or such sudden movements around strong turns and bends.
For additional durability, you need to choose laminated mirrors that have clear glass and safety-backed mirrors. In areas where moisture could be a problem, two-way mirrors or pyrolytic mirrors could be used.
4. Circular Mirrors
These mirrors add a modern vibe to all kinds of spaces. Circular mirrors are the perfect decors for a living room or an entryway. The flamboyant appearance is the perfect way to maximize a small space. If kept facing the windows it will lend an airy and spacious feel to the room.
5. Framed Mirrors
Framed with unique designs this type of mirror will add a touch of pop of joy to your house. It can be even placed in the bathroom to freshen up the subtlety of the space. The colorful frames are a relief to the clear look of the mirror. Add it to your entryway or hallway and shine with compliments.
6. Hanging Mirrors
Hanging mirrors are best for practical purposes when they are tiny. These are thus perfect for small apartments or a bedroom. They also serve as a vanity mirror and add an equestrian vibe to the space. You could pair these beautiful hanging mirrors with pictures to add to the aplomb.
The Bottom Line
Mirrors are a cheap way of adding elegance to your space or home. Along with uniqueness and individuality, different types of mirrors will lead to an all-clear interior with many attributes such as safety and aesthetics. The list provided above is the broad classifications of mirrors based on science and decors. Happy hunting for mirrors according to your taste and style!
