Obscure Glass Range
Obscure Glass is a type of glass that can be fitted to doors and windows that reduces the level of visibility through the pane. The upside of this is that it can limit how much people can see into an area so allows for privacy in rooms such as bathrooms, the downside however is that light can also be reduced, making the room appear darker. Obscure glass is sometimes called frosted glass, patterned glass, textured glass or privacy glass, although there are slight differences in them. Frosted or privacy glass is opaque so that light cannot transmit, whereas patterned glass obscures the view so that it's transparent to varying degrees.
The level of privacy is defined on a rating scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being just above transparent with some visibility in the glass whilst 5 offers some light transmission with complete privacy.
For Windows and Doors that require Obscure Glass, please choose one from our wide range of Pilkington Designs in the table below - when selecting your design you will need to take into account your preference and the level of privacy the glass provides and whether this is enough for the are where you intend to install the glass. The privacy rating is identified by the number next to each design's name.
Click on the designs for a larger view
 Warwick (1) |
 Chantilly (2) |
 Flemish (2) |
 Minster (2) |
 Sycamore (2) |
 Autumn (3) |
 Digital (3) |
 Taffeta (3) |
 Arctic (4) |
 Charcoal Sticks (4) |
 Contora (4) |
 Florielle (4) |
 Mayflower (4) |
 Oak (4) |
 Stippolyte (4) |
 Cotswold (5) |
 Everglade (5) |
 Pelerine (5) |
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The benefits of obscure glass
Our range of Obscure Glass combines privacy with style and allows more light into your rooms. Our range has 18 different designs covering a range of tastes, from classic and traditional through to something modern and contemporary. Our range can also be an attractive decorative feature for your guests. It also allows light into the room whilst also maintaining privacy or obscuration.
When ordering obscure glass, there are five levels of obscuration available (1 being the least obscure to 5 being the most - with 5 offering maximum privacy looking into the room). There are also other benefits to obscure glass windows, they reduce sunglare and noise and prevent the fading of furnishings which can occur as a result of being left in the sunlight for too long. They can also make your home more energy efficient all year around.
If you would like to find out more, or would like to discuss which of our range is right for you, then get in touch with is on 024 7666 6991.
What Is Obscure Glass Used For?
Obscure Glass is most commonly used in bathroom windows to provide privacy whilst also allowing maximum light into the room. For bathroom windows we recommend a privacy rating of 4-5 when choosing the pattern type. Level 5 obscure glass is also very popular in areas where full privacy is needed, such as in offices.
Another common use is in front or back external doors whcih contain glazed panels for privacy, but still allow light through into what would otherwise be a dark hallway or room. For secluded doors, we recommmend choosing a laminated glass for additional security.
Obscure glass can also be used for windows in other areas of the home, including living spaces and bedrooms. This may be an additional consideration if the room is adjacent to roads or paths or is overlooked by neighbours.
What is the difference between frosted glass and obscure glass?
Obscure glass is a category name for any class type that canreduce transparency in some way. However frosted glass ioffers the ability to reduce visibility through the glass and is distinguished by its white opaque frosting.
Can you see through frosted glass?
The transparency of all of our glass panels is rated from 1-5 with 1 being the most transparent and 5 the most opaque. Obscure glass can offer a range of privacy levels depending on the amount of decorative etching applied.
It is also worth noting, in daylight obscure glass does provide a reasonable level of privacy but at night when it is darker outside than inside the home, the window may be slightly more transparent so you may want a higher privacy rated glass for this reason. However solid glass is more opaque thasn patterned glass and is not easy to see through even at night time.
How is obscure glass made?
There are two types of obscure glass, acid-etched and textured glass.
Acid Etched glass creates a frosted appearance and is made by taking a standard glass sheet and applying acid which creates a frosted appearance and can be used to make patterns. Whereas textured glass has a texture applied during the manufacturing process by passing it over certain moulds to create the effect.
Examples of textured glass above include:
- Pelerine glass which is known for it's attractive feather-like, foilage inspired design
- Everglade Glass which has a beautiful swirling pattern
- Arctic Glass which is a popular option for bathrooms.
As well as obscure glass, there is a wide range of glass options for your windows:
- Standard glass is called "Low E" and is a great all round option for energy efficiency.
- Low Iron glass offers high clarity and energy efficiency
- Toughened glass is five times stronger than regular glass.
Pelerine Glass
One of the most popular glass patterns n our range is Pelerine glass. Pelerine is derived from the french word pèlerine," meaning a decorative lace collar and is inspired by the exquisite details of lacework. The glass variant known for its intricate patterns and delicate textures has been gracing homes for many years and has an attractive feather-like, foilage inspired design.
Characteristics of Pelerine Glass
- Elegant patterns - these designs range from intricate florals to geometric arrangements, allowing you to choose a style that resonates with you.
- Textural Richness - running your fingers over the surface of pelerine glass reveals a subtle, undulating texture that adds depts alongside its visual appeal.
- Light Play: When illuminated, the glass creates a dance of light and shadow, casting enchanging patterns across your space.
Windowforce
Registered Office:
1 Hanford Close Ind Est
Stoney Stanton Road
Coventry, CV6 5TL
T: 024 7666 6991
F: 024 7666 4554
Company Registered in
England No: 03615729