Key Takeaways
- Obscured glass allows light to pass through but limits visibility, creating a sense of privacy.
- Spandrel glass is opaque and used to conceal the structural elements between floors of buildings.
- Obscured glass is ideal for spaces like bathrooms and offices that need both light and visibility, while spandrel glass is primarily used in commercial buildings for aesthetic and functional purposes.
- From energy efficiency to costs, both glass types have their benefits. A choice between them depends on our specific needs and preferences.
- At Panda Windows & Doors, we deliver custom window and door solutions using high-quality glass materials like obscured and spandrel glass.
What is Obscured Glass?
Obscured glass is a type of translucent glass made through various methods like sandblasting, acid etching, or applying a frosted film. The result is a glass that limits visibility without completely blocking out light.
What is Spandrel Glass?
Spandrel glass is a type of opaque glass used primarily in commercial buildings to conceal structural elements such as columns, beams, and floor slabs. Unlike obscured glass, spandrel glass does not allow light to pass through and is used for both aesthetic and functional purposes.
Founded in 1991, Panda Windows & Doors specializes in state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems for both residential and commercial spaces through Panda Windows & Doors. Operating from our manufacturing facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, we have been at the forefront of innovation for over 30 years. Our extensive product lineup includes over 80 high-end offerings, such as pivot doors, French doors, folding doors, lift & slides, multi-slides, horizontal sliding walls, and operable windows. These systems are available in materials like aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, solid wood, and aluminum-wood clad.
We are renowned for our award-winning designs, engineering solutions, and fast lead times, delivering in just 6-10 weeks to customers throughout the U.S. and Caribbean. Trusted by leading architectural firms and glaziers nationwide, we stand as the premier manufacturer of custom luxury windows and doors in the United States.
Explore Custom Solutions from Panda Windows & Doors Today
Pros and Cons
Pros of Obscured Glass
Obscured glass allows for both privacy and some natural light. It lets in just enough sunlight for some visibility but diffuses the rest, increasing privacy and security, reducing glare, and blocking harmful UV rays.
With its wide variety of styles and patterns, obscured glass also has enough design flexibility to fit any architectural style.
Cons of Obscured Glass
Obscured glass is more expensive than regular clear glass due to the additional processing required to create the frosted or textured effect - and the textured surface of some types of obscured glass can also be more challenging to clean and maintain, as dirt and grime can accumulate in the crevices.
Pros of Spandrel Glass
Spandrel glass creates a clean and streamlined appearance for building facades by concealing structural elements and mechanical equipment. This type of glass is highly durable and can withstand significant thermal stress, making it suitable for various climates and environmental conditions.
On top of that, it’s available in a wide range of colors and finishes, allowing you to achieve any design aesthetic you wish for your property.
Cons of Spandrel Glass
Spandrel glass can be more expensive than other types of glass due to the specialized coatings and treatments required to achieve its opacity. Because it’s often used in large panels, it is also more challenging and costly to install and replace compared to smaller glass panes.
Obscured Glass vs Spandrel Glass
Energy Efficiency
Obscured glass provides good thermal insulation, especially when used in double-glazed or triple-glazed units. This helps to reduce heat loss in the winter and keep interiors cool in the summer, leading to lower energy bills.
On the other hand, spandrel glass is typically used in non-vision areas of a building, so its energy efficiency is less of a concern. However, it can still contribute to the overall thermal performance of a building when used in conjunction with other energy-efficient glazing solutions.
Obstructed glass is ideal for office spaces because it provides privacy while letting some natural light in (image courtesy of Budget Glass).
Costs
The cost of obscured and spandrel glass changes significantly depending on the specific type, size, and treatment required. Obscured glass can be more expensive due to the additional processing needed to create the frosted or textured effect, and spandrel glass can be costly due to the specialized coatings and treatments required to achieve its opacity.
It's important to think about the long-term benefits of each type of glass, such as energy savings and durability, to determine the most cost-effective solution.
Installation
Obscured glass can be relatively straightforward to install for experienced contractors. However, the textured surface of some types of obscured glass makes the process slightly more challenging.
Spandrel glass, particularly when used in large panels, often requires specialized equipment and expertise, which can increase labor costs and installation time.
At Panda Windows & Doors, we recommend hiring professionals to install your custom glass windows or doors.
Maintenance
Obscured glass, particularly those with textured surfaces, is more challenging to maintain because dirt and grime can accumulate in the crevices, requiring more frequent and thorough cleanings.
Spandrel glass, on the other hand, is easier because it is often installed in non-vision areas and does not require regular cleaning.
However, if the spandrel glass is damaged or needs replacement, it is way more costly and challenging to address due to its size and specialized coatings.
Aesthetics
Obscured glass provides a unique combination of privacy and light diffusion, which is useful in various residential and commercial applications. It is available in a wide range of patterns and textures, allowing for design versatility.
Spandrel glass, with its opaque finish, gives building facades a sleek and modern appearance. It is available in various colors and finishes.
Ideal Uses
Best Situations for Obscured Glass
- Residential Spaces: In homes, obscured glass is often used in bathrooms to provide privacy while still allowing natural light to flood the space. It is also used in entry doors and sidelights to create a welcoming atmosphere without giving outsiders a clear view into your home.
- Commercial Spaces: For commercial settings, obscured glass is a fantastic option for office partitions and conference rooms. It gives employees private areas to work or have meetings without being disturbed, while still benefiting from natural light. It can also be used in retail spaces, such as fitting rooms or storefronts, to enhance privacy and aesthetics.
Best Situations for Spandrel Glass
- Commercial Buildings: In commercial buildings, spandrel glass is used to hide mechanical equipment, structural columns, and floor slabs between windows. This creates a clean, streamlined appearance that enhances the overall aesthetic of the building. It's also used in curtain wall systems to create a cohesive look while hiding unsightly elements.
- Industrial Settings: In industrial settings, spandrel glass conceals machinery and other equipment that needs to be hidden from view. It’s a durable, low-maintenance solution that can withstand harsh environmental conditions — which is ideal for factories and warehouses.
Spandrel glass conceals non-vision elements of commercial buildings like columns, beams, and floor slabs (image courtesy of Glass Magazine).
Choose Panda Windows & Doors for Your Custom Designs
At Panda Windows & Doors, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, custom window and door solutions.
Since 1991, we have grown into a dedicated team of over 70 employees and 30 regional agents across the United States, Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean. With over 80 high-quality systems, including folding doors, lift & slides, and architectural windows, if you’re looking for obscured glass for your home or spandrel glass for a commercial project, we have the expertise and products to bring your vision to life.
When you choose us, you’re choosing a partner who understands the importance of form and function. We’re dedicated to helping you create spaces that are beautiful, practical, and efficient.
Reach out to us to learn more about our products and how we can help you achieve your design goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between obscured glass and spandrel glass?
Obscured glass allows light to pass through while blocking the view, making it ideal for privacy. Spandrel glass is opaque and used to conceal structural elements between floors of buildings.
Can obscured glass be used in exterior windows?
Yes, obscured glass can be used in exterior windows to provide privacy while still allowing natural light to enter. It's commonly used in bathroom windows and entry doors.
Is spandrel glass energy-efficient?
Spandrel glass can contribute to the overall thermal performance of a building when used in conjunction with other energy-efficient glazing solutions. It helps to conceal structural elements and can reduce heat loss.
How do I clean and maintain obscured glass?
Cleaning obscured glass can be more challenging due to its textured surface. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and mild detergent is recommended to prevent dirt and grime from accumulating in the crevices.
Why Choose Panda Windows & Doors for my custom glass window or door designs?
For over 30 years, we have provided hundreds of custom window and door solutions to enhance property aesthetics, function, and overall value.
With over 80 high-quality systems, including folding doors, lift & slides, and architectural windows, we have the expertise and top-of-the-line glass materials to bring your architectural vision to life. Contact us today for more on our obscured and spandrel glass solutions.
