The Anatomy of Optics: How to Choose Glass for Your Interior

Glass is one of the most versatile materials in the modern interior. But not every type of glass is equally suited to a particular task. The difference starts at the level of chemical composition and manufacturing technology, and ends with how the material behaves in a real space.

What Is "Ordinary" Glass

The basic clear glass we see in shop windows and standard partitions is called float glass. It is produced by melting the raw batch and pouring the molten glass onto a bath of molten tin. This method produces a sheet that is perfectly flat on both sides.

However, ordinary float glass has a slight greenish tint — a consequence of iron impurities in the raw materials. At small thicknesses (4-6 mm) this tint is virtually invisible, but in 10-12 mm glass constructions or stacked panels it becomes clearly visible, especially against a light background.

Low-Iron Glass: Clarity Without Compromise

Low-iron (extra clear) glass is float glass whose raw materials undergo additional purification from iron oxides. The result is an almost colorless material with a light transmittance of up to 91-92% (versus 87-88% for ordinary glass).

Where this is critical: - Shower partitions — the greenish tint of ordinary glass is especially noticeable on white tile - Glass shelves and display cases — the color of the product must not be distorted - Facade glazing — over large areas the difference becomes obvious - Glass countertops — the view through should be crystal clear

Tinted Glass: Grey and Bronze

Tinted glasses are made by adding metal oxides to the batch at the melting stage. It is not a film or a coating — the color permeates the entire thickness of the material.

Grey glass (grey tint) is the most popular choice for balcony and staircase railings. It transmits about 40-50% of light, creating a sense of privacy without full opacity. At the same time it keeps outlines crisp — through grey glass you can see the surroundings, but the details are slightly softened.

Bronze glass (bronze tint) is a warmer option. It transmits roughly 35-45% of light. It is ideal for interiors in a warm color palette: wood, copper, brass. The bronze tone gives the glass nobility and depth, especially combined with brass hardware.

Frosted Glass: Privacy While Keeping the Light

Frosting is a surface treatment that makes one side of the glass rough. The light is scattered, and through such glass you can only see silhouettes, not details.

There are two main frosting methods: - Sandblasting — an abrasive under pressure creates the roughness. It is a cheap method, but the surface is porous and easily absorbs dirt and grease. - Acid etching — a chemical treatment that "eats away" the top layer of the glass. The result is a smoother, more uniform surface that resists contamination.

At Nova Glass we use acid etching exclusively — it is what ensures durability and allows easy cleaning with ordinary household products.

How to Choose

The choice of glass type depends on three factors: the task, the lighting and the aesthetics. For shower partitions in small bathrooms, low-iron glass works best — it does not "swallow" the space. For balcony railings, grey tinted glass is optimal. For office partitions where privacy is needed — acid-etched frosted glass.