Glass is a crucial material in modern architecture as it provides aesthetics and flexibility to the structure. It is also a versatile material. Since it is transparent in nature, glass is undesirable in applications where privacy is essential. And that’s why frosted glass comes into picture.
Glass frosting has a milky translucent surface and does not allow a clear view through it. Available in many different designs, frosted glass is preferred more in offices.
Here we’ll discuss the types of frosted glass, its benefits, and its application.
Advantages of Frosted Glass:
- Frosted glass translucent surface provides privacy to interiors and simultaneously allows light transmission. Thus, it helps in reducing the need for artificial lights.
- You can use it effectively in places where curtains and blinds are not needed.
- Frosted glass is used to reveal a decorative look to the interior. You can combine it with patterned glass to create innovative designs.
- You can easily clean it, as it has high resistance towards scratches.
- The translucent surface of the glass diffuses light uniformly and reduces the light glare, offering a comforting environment.
Application of Frosted Glass:
- Frosted glasses are used where privacy is imperative such as office doors, exterior windows, cabinets, glass partitions, etc.
- Many businesses engrave their company logo into the glass by using frosted glass to promote their brands.
- You can use it as decorative glass to enhance the aesthetics of your office.
How is Frosted Glass Produced?
Commercial glass frosting is mainly done in one of two ways:
- Acid-Etched Glass
By etching the glass with acid, you can achieve the frosted look of the glass. The acid reacts with the glass and erodes the surface. After the etching process, the glass is washed thoroughly.
The part of the surface on which acid is applied becomes translucent and appears frosted. The etching is permanent, and when you touch it, fingerprint marks will not remain on the surface.
Acid-etched glass has a smooth surface. The service provider can produce the glass in various degrees of transparency. The manufacturer can also impregnate different designs on the glass by using stencils.
- Sandblasted Glass:
Manufacturers produce sandblasted glass by blasting sand or husk on the surface of the glass with a high-velocity machine. Abrasion of glass occurs at the point of contact due to high-velocity impact. You can change the degree of transparency by altering the velocity and type of sand.
The sandblasted glass comes in many different designs when compared to acid-etched glass. However, it requires more care and maintenance as it leaves fingerprint marks and needs cleaning regularly.
Which One to Choose Between the Two?
Acid-etched glass is excellent for more complex, decorative designs. This glass creates a unique, smooth, satin look that gives a frosted appearance. The process leaves a permanent look that does not peel, chip, or wear down over time.
Sandblasting offers a more consistent, high-quality finish and is usually better-suited to bigger projects or for simple designs on window panels where more frosting is needed. Sandblasting glass is also more costly than acid-etched glass; however, lead time is quicker.
The Bottom Line
Since glass frosting is not heavy on the wallet, take some time and think about your office doors and windows to get that added privacy you always wanted.
