07/02/2026
SHOWER ENCLOSURE GLASS OPTIONS
Let's talk about Shower Door glass options!! Many times a potential client reaches out and they are unaware of the options of glass available. To no fault of their own, it is our responsibility to educate them. There are many out there .... Regular Clear, Obscure, Acid-etched, Rain Glass, Low Iron amongst many others. I would like to discuss the 2 main types for Shower Enclosures.
REGULAR CLEAR vs LOW IRON
Regular Clear Glass is the standard in flat glass. The reason I will discuss , Regular Clear first is how it presents itself. Once Regular Clear Glass is installed with a White or Light-colored background tile there is a greenish-blue tint/ hue to the glass. The reason for this is due to the Iron content within the material, the glass! In order to combat this, glass manufacturers created what is known as Low Iron Glass. It goes by many cute-catchy names that vendors brand it from "Starphire" to "HD" to "Ultra Clear" "Opticlear" and the list goes on and on. The bottom line is that it is Low Iron Glass.
"Well..what is Low Iron Glass" you asked?
Low Iron Glass is a type of flat glass that presents itself as Crystal Clear. This is done by manufacturers removing as much Iron from the glass as possible in the production process. This eliminates the Greenish-blue tint that would be there when tile is a light color.
Check out the pics and you will see the difference. During your in-person estimate, Your Glass Company should always bring in samples for you to actually see with your own eyes. Please do not just go by a picture with a dash of hope. Alot of companies dont even give an opportunity for clients to pick nor make them aware of the Low Iron option because they want to rush and make the sell. Close the dea without educating potential buyers on all available ootiins. That should be a RED FLAG if you run into that! Yes, Low Iron has a higher price tag but that is up to the client to make that decision of whether to purchase it or not.
I tell everyone, there is no right or wrong pick, just get what you really want. Some folks love the "tint" from Regular clear glass others despise it. REMEMBER, Its your preference, but do what your heart, mind, and gut together tell you. Your Shower is a sacred place, make it exactly how you want it.
Also... if there is a dark colored tile, save yourself the money and go with Regular Clear Glass. It really is not necessary to spend the extra money on a difference that cannot be seen. Although, alot of clients still insist on the Low Iron if tile is black.
View the following pics for a better understanding, thanks for the read. I hope this gives a simple explanation for all the questions.
