Clear vs Low Iron Glass: What's the Difference?
Glass is glass, right? Not quite! If you have ever ordered a custom shower screen, splashback, or balustrade on the Sunshine Coast, you might have come across the terms "clear glass" and "low iron glass." While both serve the same purpose by providing a strong transparent material, there are key differences that can impact the look of your project.
Let’s explore the details so you can make the right choice for your home!
How Glass Is Made
Both clear and low iron glass are made using similar processes. Raw materials, including silica sand, soda ash, and limestone, are melted at high temperatures to form molten glass. This molten mixture is then floated on a bed of molten tin, creating a perfectly flat surface before being cooled and cut to size.
The major difference between clear and low iron glass is the amount of iron in the mix.
What Is Clear Glass?
Clear glass is the standard type used in most applications. It has a slight greenish tint, which becomes more noticeable on thicker panels. This green tint is caused by iron content in the glass, which naturally absorbs and reflects light in a way that affects color perception.
Most people do not notice the green hue in everyday applications, but when viewed from the edges or against a white background, like in a shower or splashback, it becomes more apparent. If you prefer a classic look and do not mind a bit of natural tint, clear glass is a great choice.
Best used for:
Standard shower screens
Windows and doors
Glass balustrades
Budget friendly projects
What Is Low Iron Glass?
Low iron glass is designed to be ultra clear by reducing the amount of iron in the raw materials. The result is a significantly reduced green tint and a crystal clear appearance, even in thicker glass panels.
Low iron glass allows for more natural light transmission, making colors appear more accurate and vibrant. This is especially useful for high end projects where clarity is essential, such as splashbacks, frameless shower screens, or display cases where true color representation is important.
Best used for:
High end frameless shower screens
Glass splashbacks, especially when painted
Display cabinets and retail storefronts
Architectural features where clarity is essential
Looking for low iron glass for your project on the Sunshine Coast? We specialize in high quality glass installations tailored to your needs.
Clear Acid Etched vs Low Iron Acid Etched Glass
Acid etching is a process that creates a frosted, matte finish on glass by applying acid to the surface. This reduces glare and creates privacy while maintaining a smooth, modern look. Both clear and low iron glass can undergo acid etching, but the results differ slightly.
Clear Acid Etched Glass: Maintains the slight green tint found in standard clear glass, which can be noticeable.
Low Iron Acid Etched Glass: Offers a much more neutral and pure frosted appearance without the greenish hue, making it ideal for applications where true colour and brightness are important.
Best Applications for Acid Etched Glass
Privacy panels for offices or bathrooms
Decorative glass partitions
Feature walls with a frosted look
Cabinet doors with a soft matte finish
Which One Should You Choose?
It all depends on your needs and budget. If you are looking for a cost effective glass option, clear glass works well for most applications. However, if you want extra clarity for splashbacks or frameless showers where aesthetics matter, low iron glass is worth the upgrade.
Looking for expert glass installation on the Sunshine Coast? If you are not sure which one is right for your project, we are happy to help. Get in touch and we will guide you through the best options for your space.
