Tempered Glass vs Obscured Glass: Which Is Better?

Key Takeaways

• Tempered glass is four times stronger than regular glass and shatters into small, blunt, and less dangerous pieces.
• Obscured glass provides privacy while still letting light pass through, which is ideal for bathrooms and private spaces.
• Tempered glass is best for areas that require durability and safety such as shower doors and large windows.
• Obscured glass comes in various patterns and textures, offering property owners design flexibility and a range of customization options.
• At Panda Windows & Doors, we provide custom window and door solutions using high-quality glass materials like tempered and obscured glass.

What is Tempered Glass?

Tempered glass, also known as toughened glass, is a type of safety glass processed by controlled thermal or chemical treatments – which makes it resistant to heat and heavy impact. 

When broken, tempered glass shatters into small, blunt pieces instead of sharp shards, reducing the risk of injury.

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process of tempered glass involves heating the glass to over 600 degrees Celsius and then rapidly cooling it with high-pressure air jets. This process, known as quenching, creates a state of compression on the glass surface while the interior remains in tension.

The balance of forces created within the glass is what gives it its remarkable strength and safety features.

What is Obscured Glass?

Obscured glass is designed to cloak vision while still letting light pass through. Unlike clear glass, it is treated with a frosting technique or patterned to diffuse light and reduce visibility.

Obscured glass comes in various types, each providing different levels of opacity and design options. Some of the most common types are:

• Frosted Glass: Created by sandblasting or acid etching the glass surface to produce a translucent finish.
• Ribbed Glass: Features vertical or horizontal ribs that distort vision while allowing light to pass through.
• Patterned Glass: Comes with embossed patterns that provide a decorative look and privacy.
• Textured Glass: Has a surface texture that scatters light and obscures vision.

Some common patterns and textures of obscured glass include:

• Rain: Mimics the look of rain trickling down the glass.
• Reeded: Features narrow, parallel lines that run the length of the glass.
• Delta Frost: A more modern, frosted pattern that provides high privacy.
• Glue Chip: Looks like frost on a windowpane.

Pros and Cons

Tempered Glass

Tempered glass has several benefits:

• Strength: It is four times stronger than regular glass and highly durable.
• Safety: It breaks into small, blunt pieces, reducing the risk of injury.
• Heat Resistance: It can withstand high temperatures.
• Versatility: It can be used in many different applications, from windows to furniture and kitchens.

Tempered glass also has a few drawbacks. Firstly, with the additional processing involved in tempering the glass, it can be more expensive than standard glass — which is not ideal for budget-conscious projects.

Another major downside is that once tempered glass is cut or drilled, it loses its strength and safety features. Therefore, any modifications must be made before the tempering process. This limitation is a challenge for custom window or door designs that require precise cuts and holes.

Obscured Glass

Obscured glass has the dual functionality of light transmission and privacy. It also offers property owners a variety of design options, from frosted and patterned glass designs to textured finishes. This versatility and design flexibility makes it a popular choice for interior designers and homeowners.

On the flip side, obscured glass isn’t as strong as tempered glass. It breaks into sharp shards, which is a safety risk for areas prone to impact or heavy use. 

Additionally, the patterns and textures that make obscured glass visually appealing also makes it harder to clean. Dirt and grime can accumulate in the grooves and etched surfaces, requiring more effort to maintain a pristine appearance.

Tempered Glass vs Obscured Glass

Energy Efficiency

Tempered glass tends to be more energy-efficient due to its heat-resistant properties. Reducing heat transfer can help maintain indoor temperatures, which lowers your energy bills in both hot and cold climates.

Obscured glass, while providing privacy, does not offer the same level of energy efficiency. Its primary function is to diffuse light and obscure vision, so it doesn’t have the same insulating properties as tempered glass.

Costs

Tempered glass is generally more expensive due to the additional processing required to enhance its strength and safety features. Prices vary depending on the size and thickness of the glass, and any additional customizations.

Obscured glass, however, is more affordable, especially if you opt for standard patterns and textures. Custom designs or intricate patterns may increase the cost, but it usually remains less expensive than tempered glass.

Installation and Maintenance

Tempered and obscured glass both require professional installation to guarantee proper fit and safety. 

In terms of maintenance, tempered glass is relatively easy to clean due to its smooth surface. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and water will keep it looking clear and bright. Obscured glass, particularly textured or patterned types, requires a bit more effort to clean. Use a soft brush or cloth to reach into the grooves and remove any dirt or grime.

Design

Tempered glass offers property owners a sleek, modern look with its clear, unblemished surface. It’s a good fit for contemporary designs and spaces where you want to maximize visibility and light.

Obscured glass, with its variety of patterns and textures, can complement traditional and modern designs alike with extra functionality and style.

Tempered glass gives properties a sleek, modern look while providing energy efficiency.

Ideal Uses

Best Situations for Tempered Glass

Tempered glass is best used in properties where safety and durability are the main priorities. Some ideal applications are:

• Shower Doors: Its strength and safety features allow people to shower safely without having to worry about impact.
• Large Windows: It’s a reliable choice for expansive windows that need to withstand heavy impact and severe weather conditions.
• Glass Railings: In staircases and balconies, it gives properties a sleek, modern look.
• Furniture: Tabletops and shelves made from it are durable, clean, and have an elegant appearance.

Aside from the above applications, tempered glass is also commonly used in commercial buildings, public spaces, and areas with high traffic.

Best Situations for Obscured Glass

Obscured glass excels in providing privacy and adding decorative elements to a space. Ideal uses for it include:

• Bathrooms: It offers users privacy without sacrificing natural light.
• Office Partitions: Its partitions create private workspaces while maintaining an open, airy feel.
• Entry Doors: The glass panels in entry doors create a welcoming, stylish look while ensuring privacy.
• Bedrooms: It adds a touch of elegance and privacy when used in bedroom windows and closet doors.

Obscured glass is also a great choice for decorative features like room dividers, cabinet doors, and skylights, where functionality and aesthetic appeal can be combined.

Obscured glass windows provide privacy while still letting light into the property (image courtesy of A.S.A.P Glass).

Choose Panda Windows & Doors for Your Custom Designs

If you’re looking for the strength and safety of tempered glass or the privacy and elegance of obscured glass, we have you covered. 

At Panda Windows & Doors, we guide you through the entire process from glass selection to final delivery, making sure you find the right custom glass solution for your property.

Established in 1991 in Las Vegas, Nevada, we have grown from a small family business into a powerhouse in the building and design community. With more than 70 employees and 30 regional agents throughout the United States, Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean, our presence continues to expand.

Reach out to us to learn more about our glass products.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is tempered glass more expensive than obscured glass?

Yes, tempered glass is generally more expensive than obscured glass due to the additional processing required to enhance its strength and safety features. The cost can vary based on the size, thickness, and any customization needed.

Can I use obscured glass as an exterior window?

Yes, you can use obscured glass as an exterior window. It provides privacy while still allowing natural light to enter. However, it may not offer the same level of energy efficiency as tempered glass, so consider your specific needs and climate conditions.

How do I clean and maintain tempered glass?

Cleaning tempered glass is relatively easy due to its smooth surface. Use a mild detergent and water to clean the glass, and avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface. Regular maintenance will keep your tempered glass looking clear and bright.

For obscured glass, particularly textured or patterned types, use a soft brush or cloth to reach into the grooves and remove any dirt or grime. Regular cleaning will help maintain its pristine appearance and ensure it continues to provide privacy and light diffusion.

What are the ideal uses for obscured glass?

Obscured glass offers property owners both functionality and aesthetic appeal. It is best used for bathrooms, office partitions, entry doors, and decorative features like room dividers, cabinet doors, and skylights.

What is the average turnaround time for custom tempered or obscured glass windows?

At Panda Windows & Doors, our custom glass windows or doors take approximately 8 to 12 weeks for final delivery. We always strive to provide top-quality products that enhance property value in the long term. Contact us today for more on our custom window and door solutions.