Obscured glass is any type of glass which allows light to come in, but can’t be clearly seen through. These types of glass are designed to increase privacy. There are two types of obscured glass, tinted and acid etched.
a) Tinted Glass
Tinted glass is a good option if privacy and security are priorities for you, as it limits the amount that someone can see inside. Since tinted glass limits the amount of sunlight that can get through, it can also help reduce energy costs.
b) Acid Etched Glass
Acid etched glass is created by dipping one sheet of float glass into hydrofluoric acid, resulting in a rough texture which gives the glass a translucent finish, resembling frosted glass.
Benefits of Glass Doors
Glass offers many benefits, making it a favored material for doors in many modern establishments. Here are a few reasons to choose glass.
Aesthetic
Glass doors make any space feel bigger and more open, and give it a more contemporary touch. ASSA ABLOY offers sliding glass doors, which are an elegant and practical design. Sliding glass doors are ideal if you are trying to optimize space, since you don’t need to allow extra room for a door to swing.
Sustainability
Glass is one of the most sustainable building materials, and is 100% recyclable with no loss of quality. In addition, glass is durable, lasts a long time, and rarely needs to be updated.
Daylighting
Glass lets in plenty of sunlight, which can help raise energy levels and improve productivity in a workplace. It also reduces energy costs by taking advantage of the natural warmth of the sun to heat buildings during the colder months.
Less Sound Transmission
Some people would argue that glass doors don’t provide enough privacy, but thicker glass options, such as laminated or insulated glass, actually help buffer sound.
Easy to Maintain
Glass does not rust or corrode, and barely even collects dust, which makes it very easy to clean and maintain. To clean glass doors, all you need to do is wipe them down with a soft damp cloth to prevent dirt, debris, fingerprints, and more from building up on them.
Transparency
Glass doors send a message of transparency and encourage frequent communication in a workplace or establishment. They also make spaces feel more welcoming and approachable.
Customizable
Choosing glass allows you to adjust your door to fit your business's style and visual needs. You can further customize your glass doors by adding door pulls based on the style of your interior.
Glass Door Hardware & Accessories
ASSA ABLOY offers many door hardware and accessories which can serve as solutions for all glass doors.
Door Rails - A door opens and closes more seamlessly with door rails. Rails can be made to fit a variety of door lengths and door thicknesses. They have a variety of fabrication options to create a customized solution to fit any glass door application.
Patch Fittings - ASSA ABLOY provides glass patch fittings, which offer designers and architects a complete selection of products for most frameless glass configurations. With a maximum door weight of 300 lbs., our glass patch fitting design is manufactured to meet the industry standard and deliver the ultimate in strength and reliability.
Hinges - ASSA ABLOY offers door control solutions, including hydraulic hinges, which have an adjustable closing speed, constant braking control, and a hold-open between 90-180 degrees. An ADA option is also available.
Sliding Track Hardware - If you need a sliding door, then ASSA ABLOY’s collection of sliding track hardware will be useful to you. This hardware allows the door to slide effortlessly, and recovers the in-swing and out-swing space that is normally required for hinged doors.
Door Pulls - Match your building’s interior design by choosing from a wide selection of Rockwood door pulls. Door pulls also offer several locking options.
Mechanical Locking Hardware - We offer a variety of locks and deadbolts to secure your opening. A nice aesthetic option is the Locking Pull System. It integrates a contemporary post mount style door pull with a deadbolt locking system. Engineered for smooth attachment, the locking pull is manufactured to ensure strength and durability with clean and appealing lines.
View the full line of glass door hardware solutions here.
Get Glass Doors Today
Having read through this article, it's easy to see why glass doors are such a popular choice for businesses. From the environmental benefits to the increased productivity in the workplace, there are many reasons to switch to glass doors.
You can choose from a variety of glass to find one that fits your needs, and pair it with your desired accessories. Contact an ASSA ABLOY consultant to help you determine what type of glass will best suit your needs, and which accessories will enhance your door's appearance and functionality.