Regular Clear vs Low Iron Glass for Shower Doors (2024)

FAQs

Regular Clear vs Low Iron Glass for Shower Doors? ›

Crystal clear Low iron glass provides maximum brightness for shower enclosures with higher visible light transmittance than ordinary clear glass. Its clarity and color fidelity show shower enclosure walls as they really are without the greening of standard clear glass, particularly as glass thickness increases.

One of the biggest advantages of low iron glass is that it's much clearer than regular glass. This increased clarity can be particularly beneficial in a shower door, as it allows more light to pass through and makes the space feel more open.

In addition to unobstructed views, the edge work on low iron glass is much less green than standard clear glass. Low iron glass has a visible light transmittance (VLT) of 91 percent in a standard quarter inch thick glass, while standard clear glass has an 83 percent VLT, making it the clear choice.

The benefit of using clear glass is cost. Low iron glass is slightly more expensive but depending on your requirement, may or may not be needed. There is of course an aesthetic aspect to this choice which is personal preference.

The unique difference between both glass types is the transparency and color tint. Both glass types can be used anywhere you want. However, if you want clarity and greater light transmission, you must go for the low iron glass. Plus, you can add strength to the optically clear glass by tempering process.

The product most commonly used for shower door construction is tempered glass. This glass goes through a process of heating and rapid cooling that leaves it much more durable than annealed glass. The edges of tempered glass remain quite vulnerable to breakage, but this product includes one more safety feature.

The Benefit of Low Iron Glass

This means that it doesn't let heat through as quickly as clear glass, which makes it great for homes in warmer climates. Low iron glass also lets in more natural light, giving you gorgeous views while protecting what's inside your home during the day.

Low-iron glass is manufactured with silica and tends to be slightly less scratch resistant than clear glass.

Low-iron glass is sold under various brand names. Guardian Industries calls it "UltraClear" or "Ultrawhite". Pilkington calls it "Optiwhite". Vitro calls it "Starphire".

How to tell if glass is low iron? ›

Clear glass is not the clearest type of glass you can get; the amount of iron content gives clear glass a greenish tint to it. Low iron glass is more transparent than regular glass. it doesn't have the greenish tint due to the reduced amount of iron in its molten glass formula.

In other words, if you think keeping the screen original color(brighter than matte glass) is most important, you can choose clear tempered glass, if you think anti-fingerprint(better than clear glass) is most important, then matte tempered glass is your best choice.

Low-iron glass provides maximum brightness and clarity with a higher visible light transmittance than traditional clear glass. Applications requiring an unrestricted view can see tremendous improvement with the use of low-iron glass over more traditional options.

Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle, spray it on the glass, and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off with a microfiber cloth. For an extra shine, clean your glass shower door with vinegar regularly to prevent water stains from taking hold.

Clear and low-iron shower glass are relatively easy to clean and maintain. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water can help keep them clean and spotless. Water resistance.

Both deliver the same ShowerGuard glass protection, but the Guardian UltraClear low-iron glass is more transparent – which means it enhances clarity, helps boost light levels and maximizes the impact of your tile design.