Advanced Water-Based Mirror
Our cleanest and most durable mirror formulation — manufactured using state-of-the-art water-based coating technology with zero lead content.
Manufacturing Technology
Mawby & King mirror is produced using an advanced water-based paint system that eliminates the need for lead-based compounds entirely. This represents a significant advancement over traditional mirror manufacturing processes, which historically relied on lead-containing paints as a protective backing layer.
Our mirror manufacturing line was first installed in 1988 and has been enhanced multiple times to incorporate the latest coating technologies. The current generation — in production since 2022 — delivers our highest performance to date: superior corrosion resistance, improved durability and a cleaner, more sustainable manufacturing process.
How Mirror Glass Is Made
Mirror manufacturing is a multi-stage precision process. A sheet of high-quality float glass is first thoroughly cleaned to remove any contaminants. A thin layer of silver is then deposited onto the glass surface through a chemical reaction — this silver layer is what creates the reflective surface.
The silver layer is extremely thin and delicate, so it must be protected by additional coatings. In traditional manufacturing, a copper layer and then lead-based paint were applied. At Mawby & King, we have replaced these legacy materials with an advanced water-based paint system that provides equal or superior protection without any lead content. The result is a mirror that is both more environmentally responsible and more corrosion resistant than conventionally manufactured alternatives.
Corrosion Resistance
Mirror degradation — commonly seen as dark spots or edge blackening — is caused by moisture and chemical agents penetrating the protective backing layers and attacking the silver reflective coating. Our water-based paint system creates a highly effective moisture barrier that far exceeds the requirements of industry standard accelerated corrosion testing.
This superior corrosion resistance translates directly to longer product life in real-world installations, particularly in moisture-prone environments such as bathrooms, kitchens and commercial washrooms.
Available Substrates
- Clear glass — Standard float glass for traditional mirror applications
- Satin glass — Acid-etched surface for a softened, diffused reflection
- Tinted glass — Bronze, grey and other tints for decorative applications
Safety Film Backing BS EN 12600
Safety film is a polyester-based adhesive film typically applied to the back surface of mirror or lacquered glass. In the event of breakage, the film holds the fragments together, reducing the risk of injury from falling glass. Safety film backing is commonly specified for mirrors, especially where building regulations require compliance with BS EN 12600.
Mirrors are not available as toughened due to manufacturing constraints and also perceptible reduction in optical quality.
Request mirror samples or a quotation
Our sales team can provide samples, technical data sheets, and competitive pricing for your requirements.
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