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Types of Glass Explained: A Quick Guide to the PRL Catalog

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Glass isn’t just a transparent panel used to enclose windows. Over time, it’s become a design element as well as a functional barrier against risks such as ballistic threats, cold weather, hurricane winds, and more. 

PRL offers a wide range of architectural glass solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. This guide presents the main types of glass available in the PRL catalog, explained clearly and directly through brief definitions, general characteristics, and common uses, serving as a quick reference resource. 

Each product also has its own dedicated development, where technical specifications, configurations, and specific applications are explored in greater detail

Architectural glass types including laminated, Low-E, tinted, and reflective glass by PRL

Clear & Specialty Glass 

These solutions are focused on providing transparency and visibility for projects where maximum clarity and true color representation are required. 

Clear Glass 

Clear glass is a transparent glass that allows maximum light transmission and delivers clear visibility without color distortion. 

Features 

  • High optical clarity 
  • Neutral and uniform appearance 
  • Base glass for processes such as tempering, laminating, and coatings 

Common uses 

  • Windows 
  • Glass doors 
  • Interior and exterior architectural applications 

Available thicknesses 

  • 1/8″, 3/16″, 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″, 5/8″, and 3/4″ 

Low Iron Glass 

Low iron glass reduces the iron content found in standard glass, resulting in superior transparency and more accurate color reproduction. 

Features 

  • Enhanced visual clarity 
  • Clear edges without greenish tint 
  • Ideal for projects with high aesthetic requirements 

Common uses 

  • Architectural facades 
  • Display cases and storefronts 
  • Decorative and design-focused applications 

Available thicknesses 

  • 3/16″, 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″, 5/8″, and 3/4″ 

Misco Wire Glass 

Misco wire glass incorporates an internal metal wire mesh, combining an industrial aesthetic with improved glass retention in the event of breakage. 

Features 

  • Integrated wire mesh 
  • Industrial and functional appearance 
  • Available only in annealed glass 

Common uses 

  • Industrial applications 
  • Function-focused architectural projects 
  • Specialty doors and windows 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ (annealed only) 

Energy & Performance Glass 

This group of glass products is designed to improve the thermal and energy performance of projects by helping control heat transfer, reduce energy consumption, and increase interior comfort. 

Low-E Glass 

Low-E (low emissivity) glass features a specialized coating that reduces heat transfer through the glass, helping maintain more stable indoor temperatures without affecting natural light transmission. 

Features 

  • Improves energy efficiency 
  • Reduces heat gain and heat loss 
  • Provides UV protection 

Common uses 

  • Exterior windows 
  • Architectural facades 
  • Energy-efficient residential and commercial projects 

Available thicknesses 

  • 1/8″, 3/16″, and 1/4″ 

Insulated Glass Units (IGU’s) 

Insulated glass units (IGUs) are composed of two or more glass panes separated by a sealed air space, creating a thermal barrier that enhances energy performance. 

Features 

  • Improved thermal insulation 
  • Reduced heating and air conditioning energy consumption 
  • Compatible with low-E and reflective glass 

Common uses 

  • Residential windows 
  • Commercial buildings 
  • Industrial applications 

General information 

  • Helps retain heat in cold climates and blocks heat in warm climates 
  • Contributes to reducing condensation and exterior noise 

Laminated Glass 

Laminated glass is designed to provide increased safety, performance, and versatility. It’s composed of two or more glass layers bonded together with one or more interlayers. This configuration allows the glass to remain intact in the event of breakage, improving protection and comfort. 

Features 

  • Increased safety and glass retention in the event of impact 
  • Reduction of exterior noise 
  • Blocks up to 99% of UV rays 
  • Available in multiple configurations and thicknesses 

Common uses 

  • Facades and storefronts 
  • Glass railings and architectural applications 
  • Residential and commercial projects 

Within the laminated glass category, there are several subtypes that perform better depending on their specific characteristics or the market they’re designed for, including the following: 

Impact Resistant Glass 

Impact resistant glass is laminated glass designed to withstand high levels of impact without shattering. It’s ideal for applications requiring enhanced protection and durability. 

Features 

  • High resistance to repeated impacts 
  • Maintains structural integrity 
  • Suitable for interior and exterior applications 

Switch-It / Privacy Glass 

Laminated Privacy glass allows an instant transition from transparent to opaque through an activation system. 

Features 

  • On-demand privacy 
  • Improved visual and acoustic control 
  • Suitable for residential and commercial environments 

Bullet Resistant Glass 

Laminated security glass designed to protect against various levels of ballistic threat. 

Features 

  • Protection levels from 1 to 8 
  • Thinner and lighter than other solutions on the market 
  • Available in different shades and configurations 

Sound Control Glass 

Laminated glass manufactured with specialized acoustic interlayers to reduce sound transmission. 

Features 

  • Acoustic-grade PVB interlayer 
  • High-performance noise control 
  • Compatible with insulated glass units (IGU’s) 

Decorative Laminated Glass 

Decorative laminated glass allows the incorporation of different materials and designs within the interlayer. 

Features 

  • Endless customization possibilities 
  • Use of fabrics, wire mesh, wood veneers, and more 
  • Creates unique visual and lighting effects 

Rainbow Color Laminated Glass 

A laminated glass that incorporates colored interlayers to create modern and customized visual effects. 

Features 

  • Available in a standard range of colors 
  • Allows control of light transmission 
  • Doesn’t compromise structural performance 

Laminated SentryGlas®   

Structural laminated glass that uses SentryGlas® interlayers for high-performance applications. 

Features 

  • Up to five times stronger than traditional PVB’s 
  • Greater durability and resistance to moisture 
  • Available exclusively in clear 

Textured Glass 

Textured glass adds visual character, privacy, and light control through patterns that diffuse visibility without completely blocking natural light. It’s a common solution in projects where design and functionality must coexist. 

Glue Chip Glass 

Textured glass that features an irregular, frost-like pattern created through a chemical process that results in a distinctive and elegant finish. 

Features 

  • Organic and unique texture 
  • Diffuses direct visibility 
  • Allows natural light to pass through 

Available thicknesses 

  • 3/16″, 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ 

Bubble Glass 

Textured glass with integrated bubbles that create visual depth and a distinctive decorative effect. 

Features 

  • Three-dimensional pattern 
  • Handcrafted appearance 
  • Strong visual presence 

Available thicknesses 

  • 1/4″ and 3/8″ 

P-516 Glass 

Textured glass with a uniform geometric pattern that provides moderate privacy and a clean aesthetic. 

Features 

  • Consistent texture 
  • Balanced light and privacy 
  • Versatile application 

Available thicknesses 

  • 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, and 1/4″ 

Acid Etch Glass 

Glass treated with acid to create a satin surface that reduces glare and provides privacy. 

Features 

  • Uniform matte finish 
  • Diffuses visibility without blocking light 
  • Easy integration into modern designs 

Available thicknesses 

  • 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ 

Aquatex Glass 

Textured glass with a subtle pattern that simulates the movement of water, offering light privacy and a soft visual effect. 

Features 

  • Subtle design 
  • Balanced light transmission 
  • Ideal for interior applications 

Available thickness 

  • 3/16″ 

Bamboo Glass 

Textured glass with a vertical pattern inspired by natural fibers, providing an organic and contemporary aesthetic. 

Features 

  • Distinctive linear pattern 
  • Natural and modern feel 
  • Moderate privacy 

Available thickness 

  • 3/16″ 

Delta Glass 

Textured glass with a defined geometric pattern that combines privacy and design. 

Features 

  • Structured texture 
  • Modern aesthetic 
  • Efficient visual control 

Available thickness 

  • 5/32″ 

Rain Glass 

Textured glass with a pattern that simulates raindrops, ideal for creating privacy with a dynamic visual effect. 

Features 

  • Fluid and natural pattern 
  • Diffuses direct visibility 
  • Maintains good light transmission 

Available thicknesses 

  • 3/16″, 1/4″, and 3/8″ 

Reflective Glass 

Reflective glass, also known as mirror glass or one-way glass, features a metallic coating that reflects sunlight and the surrounding environment. This type of glass helps control glare, enhance daytime privacy, and reduce heat gain, while maintaining a modern and uniform appearance. 

Bluegreen Eclipse 

Reflective glass with a blue-green tone that combines solar control with a contemporary aesthetic. 

Features 

  • Subtle reflective finish 
  • Glare control 
  • Modern and uniform appearance 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ 

Bronze Eclipse 

Reflective glass with a bronze tone that provides a warm and elegant style while offering solar control. 

Features 

  • Reflective bronze tone 
  • Reduced direct sunlight 
  • Classic and sophisticated aesthetic 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ 

Mirro Pane 

A mirror-type glass that offers high reflectivity and visual privacy from the exterior. 

Features 

  • High reflective performance 
  • Enhanced daytime privacy 
  • Mirror-like appearance 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ 

Solarcool Azuria 

Reflective glass designed for solar control, featuring a blue tone that helps reduce heat gain. 

Features 

  • Thermal and solar control 
  • Blue tone 
  • Exterior architectural use 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ 

Solarcool Bronze 

Reflective glass with a bronze finish, focused on solar control and energy efficiency. 

Features 

  • Reduced heat gain 
  • Bronze tone 
  • Exterior applications 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ 

Solarcool Gray 

Reflective glass with a gray tone that balances solar control and aesthetic neutrality. 

Features 

  • Light and heat control 
  • Neutral appearance 
  • Architectural versatility 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ 

Solarcool Pacifica 

Reflective glass with a soft blue tone, designed for modern architectural applications. 

Features 

  • Efficient solar control 
  • Contemporary aesthetic 
  • Controlled light transmission 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ 

Vistacool Pacifica 

High-performance reflective glass that combines solar control with a clean and modern appearance. 

Features 

  • Balanced visibility and reflectivity 
  • Glare reduction 
  • Use in exterior facades and windows 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ 
Examples of architectural glass solutions from the PRL glass catalog

Shower Glass 

Specifically designed for wet environments, shower glass combines functionality, safety, and aesthetics. Its various options allow control over transparency, enhance privacy, and maintain a clean and durable appearance in residential and commercial bathrooms. 

Clear Glass 

Transparent glass used in shower applications that provide a clean and open appearance, maximizing light entry and visibility. 

Features 

  • High clarity and transparency 
  • Minimalist appearance 
  • Compatible with hardware and coatings 

Common uses 

  • Residential showers 
  • Commercial and hotel bathrooms 

Available thicknesses 

  • 1/8″, 3/16″, 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″, 5/8″, and 3/4″ 

Low Iron Glass 

Low iron glass used in shower applications offers superior transparency and more accurate color representation, ideal for premium design projects. 

Features 

  • Enhanced optical clarity 
  • Clear edges without greenish tint 
  • High-end aesthetic finish 

Common uses 

  • Design-focused showers 
  • High-end residential bathrooms 

Available thicknesses 

  • 3/16″, 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″, 5/8″, and 3/4″ 

Coated Shower Glass 

A shower glass with a special coating that makes cleaning easier and reduces residue buildup. 

Features 

  • Protective coating 
  • Reduces water and soap stains 
  • Easier maintenance 

Common uses 

  • Residential showers 
  • Hotel and commercial projects 

 

Tinted Glass 

Tinted glass incorporates subtle color tones during the manufacturing process allowing sunlight control, glare reduction, and enhanced privacy, while maintaining a defined architectural aesthetic. 

Azuria / Azurlite 

Tinted glass with a blue tone that provides solar control and a fresh, modern appearance. 

Features 

  • Uniform blue tone 
  • Glare reduction 
  • Contemporary aesthetic 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ 

Solarblue 

Blue tinted glass designed to balance light transmission and solar control. 

Features 

  • Moderate light control 
  • Clean appearance 
  • Versatile architectural use 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ 

Pacifica 

Tinted glass with a soft blue tone that offers solar control with a discreet appearance. 

Features 

  • Light blue tone 
  • Balanced light and color 
  • Modern architectural applications 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ 

Blue Green 

Tinted glass with a blend of blue and green tones, used for solar control and design. 

Features 

  • Blue-green tone 
  • Solar light control 
  • Distinctive architectural appearance 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ 

Bronze 

Tinted glass with a bronze tone that provides a warm style and reduces light transmission. 

Features 

  • Bronze tone 
  • Glare reduction 
  • Classic aesthetic 

Available thicknesses 

  • 1/8″, 3/16″, 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ 

Evergreen / Atlantica 

Green tinted glass that combines solar control with a natural appearance. 

Features 

  • Green tone 
  • Reduced sunlight transmission 
  • Exterior architectural use 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4″ 

Gray 

Gray tinted glass that offers solar control with a neutral and modern appearance. 

Features 

  • Gray tone 
  • Balanced light control 
  • High aesthetic versatility 

Available thicknesses 

  • 1/8″, 3/16″, 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ 

Graylite II 

Light gray tinted glass focused on light control with minimal visual alteration. 

Features 

  • Light gray tone 
  • Discreet appearance 
  • Light solar control 

Available thickness 

  • 1/8″ 

Solexia / Green 

Green tinted glass designed for solar control and energy efficiency. 

Features 

  • Intense green tone 
  • Reduced heat gain 
  • Use in facades and windows 

Available thicknesses 

  • 1/8″, 3/16″, and 1/4″ 

Super Gray 

Dark gray tinted glass that provides enhanced solar control and privacy. 

Features 

  • Deep gray tone 
  • Significant light reduction 
  • Strong architectural presence 

Available thickness 

  • 1/4 

Glass Edges 

Finished glass edges enhance the natural aesthetics of glass and allow each piece to be adapted to different decorative and functional applications. PRL offers a variety of hand-crafted edges, ranging from simple finishes to more elaborate decorative profiles depending on glass thickness. 

Waterfall 

Decorative edge with a fluid and continuous finish that creates an elegant and distinctive visual effect. 

Features 

  • High-presence decorative profile 
  • Handcrafted finish 
  • Ideal for specialty applications 

Available thickness 

  • 3/4″ 

45° Miter 

Edges cut at a 45° angle that allows precise joints and a clean appearance at corners. 

Features 

  • Precise angular cut 
  • Clean joint integration 
  • Modern appearance 

Available thicknesses 

  • 3/16″ and 3/4″ 

Rope 

Decorative edging with a rope-like relief that adds texture and visual character. 

Features 

  • Ornamental design 
  • Distinctive finish 
  • Decorative use 

Available thicknesses 

  • 1/4″ and 1/2″ 

Gemstone 

An edge with decorative facets that reflect light and create a jewel-like effect. 

Features 

  • Defined facets 
  • High visual impact 
  • Premium decorative use 

Available thickness 

  • 3/4″ 

Ogee 

Classic edging with smooth curves that adds elegance and sophistication. 

Features 

  • Traditional curved profile 
  • Refined aesthetic 
  • Decorative applications 

Available thickness 

  • 3/4″ 

Bull Nose 

A rounded edge that provides a smooth and safe finish. 

Features 

  • Rounded edges 
  • Safe to the touch 
  • Functional and decorative use 

Available thickness 

  • 3/4″ 

Double Bevel 

Edging with a double bevel that creates depth and an elegant visual effect. 

Features 

  • Decorative double bevel 
  • Pronounced light reflections 
  • Sophisticated aesthetic 

Available thicknesses 

  • 1/4″ and 3/4″ 

Pencil Polish 

Softly rounded and polished edges that are subtle and functional. 

Features 

  • Polished finish 
  • Subtle profile 
  • Versatile use 

Available thicknesses 

  • 3/16″ and 3/4″ 

Chipped & Polished 

Edges with an irregular texture combined with polishing, creating an artisanal appearance. 

Features 

  • Controlled rustic finish 
  • Decorative appearance 
  • Strong visual presence 

Available thicknesses 

  • 1/2″ and 3/4″ 

Flat Polished 

A straight, polished edge that provides a clean and minimalist appearance. 

Features 

  • Straight edge 
  • Uniform polish 
  • Modern aesthetic 

Available thicknesses 

  • 3/16″ and 3/4″ 

Ocean Surf (With Waves) 

Decorative edging with a wavy pattern inspired by the movement of the ocean. 

Features 

  • Wavy design 
  • High aesthetic value 
  • Annealed glass only 

Available thickness 

  • 3/4″ (annealed glass only) 

Bevel 

Classic beveled design that creates an elegant visual frame along its edge. 

Features 

  • Decorative bevel 
  • Controlled light reflection 
  • Traditional decorative use 

Available thicknesses 

  • 3/16″ and 3/4 

Spandrel Glass 

Spandrel glass is primarily used to conceal structural elements within glass facades while maintaining a uniform and aesthetically pleasing architectural appearance. This type of glass allows color and opacity to be integrated without sacrificing visual consistency. 

PRL offers spandrel glass in a wide range of standard and custom colors, with application options on clear or reflective glass to achieve rich tones and jewel-like visual effects. 

Features 

  • Wide range of standard and custom colors 
  • Opaque and uniform appearance 
  • Aesthetic integration with glazed facades 
  • Compatible with clear and reflective glass 

Common uses 

  • Commercial facades 
  • Hotels 
  • Retail stores and restaurants 
  • Large-scale architectural projects 

General information 

  • Available in annealed, tempered, low iron, and reflective glass 
  • Allows high-precision color matching 
  • Designed for interior and exterior applications 

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