CLEAR, TINTED, OR PATTERNED
Choosing Glass for Privacy and/or Style
Not all glass decisions come down to safety or code requirements. Sometimes it’s about how a space looks and feels. The right choice often depends on where the glass is going and what you’re hoping to achieve, whether that’s privacy, style, or something in between.
Let’s walk through some of the most common applications and the glass options homeowners choose most often for each.
Shower Enclosures
Shower glass tends to fall into two categories. Some homeowners want it as clear as possible. Others prefer a more private, modern look.
Top choices for shower enclosures:
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Clear glass
A more affordable option that still offers a clean, open look, though it carries a slight green tint compared to Starphire.
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Starphire
A low-iron glass that reduces the greenish tint found in standard glass. This is a popular pick for homeowners who want the clearest possible view.
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Frosted (Acid-Etched)
One side is sandblasted smooth, creating a soft, opaque finish. This is a common choice for a modern, private look.
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Rain
Adds a water or rain-like texture along with some privacy which offers a different visual style than a flat frosted finish. Popular choice for tub enclosures.
Bathroom Windows
Bathroom windows often call for more privacy than other windows in the home, while still letting in natural light.
Top choices for bathroom windows:
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P516 Obscure
Often called bumpy glass, this is one of the most common choices for bathroom windows. It offers strong privacy with a classic, textured look. Also, the most cost effective patterned glass.
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Reed
A smooth, subtle curve with vertical lines that offers a bit of privacy while maintaining a good amount of light.
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Delta Frost
Adds a light texture while allowing a bit more clarity than fully frosted options.
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Bamboo
A decorative option that adds privacy along with a distinct, natural-inspired texture.
Bathroom Windows
Bathroom windows often call for more privacy than other windows in the home, while still letting in natural light.
Top choices for bathroom windows:
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P516 Obscure
Often called bumpy glass, this is one of the most common choices for bathroom windows. It offers strong privacy with a classic, textured look. Also, the most cost effective patterned glass.
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Reed
A smooth, subtle curve with vertical lines that offers a bit of privacy while maintaining a good amount of light.
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Delta Frost
Adds a light texture while allowing a bit more clarity than fully frosted options.
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Bamboo
A decorative option that adds privacy along with a distinct, natural-inspired texture.
Kitchen Cabinets
Glass cabinet inserts are a popular way to add style and visibility to a kitchen without going fully open shelving.
Top choices for kitchen cabinet glass:
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Clear glass
Shows off dishware and decor fully, giving cabinets an open, airy feel.
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Frosted (Acid-Etched)
Softens the view into cabinets while still allowing light to pass through, a popular choice for a cleaner, more modern kitchen look.
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Seedy
Adds visual interest with a handcrafted look, often used in farmhouse or vintage-style kitchens.
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Gluechip
A decorative type of glass with a unique, frosted pattern that looks like ferns or frost on a winter window adding soft obscurity with a gentle look.
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Reed
A ribbed, vertical texture that’s become a popular modern design trend, adding dimension while still obscuring visibility.
General Home Windows
For windows outside the bathroom, the priority often shifts. Instead of privacy, homeowners are usually more focused on sunlight, glare, and comfort.
Top choices for general windows:
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Low-E glass
As we covered in a previous post, this coating helps block heat while still letting light through. There are higher strength low-e types, so if the window is west or south facing, it may be worth it to explore those options. Please keep in mind that low-e can only be applied to glass in an IGU (insulated glass unit) as the coating is delicate which can be prone to scratches and deterioration if exposed.
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Clear glass
Still the most common choice for windows where privacy and glare aren’t major concerns.
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Gray or Bronze
Can reduce glare and heat from direct sun exposure. Not the most popular option if low-e is already on the glass, but can be a good alternative for a different look for the home.
General Home Windows
For windows outside the bathroom, the priority often shifts. Instead of privacy, homeowners are usually more focused on sunlight, glare, and comfort.
Top choices for general windows:
-
Low-E glass
As we covered in a previous post, this coating helps block heat while still letting light through. There are higher strength low-e types, so if the window is west or south facing, it may be worth it to explore those options. Please keep in mind that low-e can only be applied to glass in an IGU (insulated glass unit) as the coating is delicate which can be prone to scratches and deterioration if exposed.
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Clear glass
Still the most common choice for windows where privacy and glare aren’t major concerns.
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Gray or Bronze
Can reduce glare and heat from direct sun exposure. Not the most popular option if low-e is already on the glass, but can be a good alternative for a different look for the home.
Front Doors and Entryways
Entry doors often need to balance privacy, security, and curb appeal all at once.
Top choices for front doors and entryways:
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Clear glass
Sometimes preferred for sidelights or transom windows where visibility and natural light matter more than privacy.
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Frosted (Acid-Etched)
A clean, private option that still allows light into the entryway.
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A Patterned glass
Adds character and curb appeal while keeping the interior obscured from outside view. Most of the previously stated patterned glass types can be placed in a front door or entryway window.
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Stained glass
A popular choice for older homes for charm and character. Though beautiful, stained glass is a specialty glass that is becoming increasingly harder to find manufacturers who produce it. Occasionally, big box stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot have pre-manufactured doors with stained glass in them. However, if broken, they are difficult to repair and more often than not replaced with clear glass or in some instances, an entirely new door.
*Please Note: This option was mentioned for information only. A Glasco cannot obtain, repair, or replace stained glass.
Can These Be Combined With Safety Glass?
Yes, in most cases. Many of these finishes can be tempered, depending on where it’s being installed. This means you don’t have to choose between style and safety. If your project involves an area that requires safety glass, like a shower enclosure or entry door, we can help you find a finish that meets code while still matching your design goals.
Not Sure Which Option Fits Your Space?
With so many choices, it’s normal to feel a little unsure at first. Stop by our showroom to see and feel the actual textures and finishes before making a decision. Seeing a sample in person often makes the choice much easier than picturing it from a photo alone. Our team can walk you through our samples and help you find the right glass for your project, whether you already have something specific in mind or you’re still exploring options.
Start Designing Your Space
Choosing glass for privacy and style should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Fill out the quote form on our homepage to get started, and we’ll help you find the right fit for your home or business.
