Glass
Low-iron glass
Low-iron glass is float glass made with a reduced iron content, which removes much of the green tint seen at the edge of standard glass. It lets through a little more light and gives truer colours, which is why it is chosen for display windows.
Where does it work well?
Display windows for jewellers and galleries, frameless frontages and thick or laminated panes, where the green edge of standard glass would spoil the colour of the stock or the brand graphics.
Pros
- Truer colour through the glass
- Clear edges with little green tint
- Slightly higher light transmission
- Can be toughened or laminated
Cons
- Costs more than standard float glass
- Longer lead times on some sizes
- Difference is small on thin panes
How long does it last?
Typically the same as standard glass of the same type, as the iron content does not affect durability.
What should you check when buying?
Check that every pane in the run is low-iron, because a mix will show side by side. State it on the order for laminated panes and sealed units. Ask to see a sample next to standard glass if the budget is tight.
Common questions
Is low-iron glass worth it for a shop window?
It is worth considering if the pane is thick, the display relies on colour, or the edges of frameless glass are on show. On a small or thin pane the difference is hard to see, so standard glass may do.
Can low-iron glass be toughened?
Yes, it can be toughened or laminated like standard glass, and it is processed to the same BS EN 12150 and BS EN 14449 standards. Only the iron content changes, not the way the glass behaves under impact.