At Ringer Windows, we know it can be hard to choose privacy glass for window replacement. That’s why we wrote this article with information and ideas to help you select the right glass for your home.
Does Privacy Glass Really Work?
Most of us think a privacy glass window will always allow light into a room while obscuring objects and people. Unfortunately, this is not true all the time! Under normal usage during daylight hours most privacy glass does block viewing. However, light from an interior space at night produces more contrast against the darkness potentially making the glass ineffective.
Should I Test My Privacy Glass Windows?
At Ringer Windows we always counsel clients to test the privacy glass in their home after installing new windows. This is especially true for sensitive areas like bathrooms, closets, and bedrooms. In addition, we recommend testing during both day and evening hours. That’s the best way to see how comfortable you are with the privacy level your windows provide.
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Which Privacy Glass Type is for Me?
Privacy glass comes in many styles and patterns, each with a distinct type of image blurring. At Ringer Windows we stock five options in three levels of privacy from minimum to maximum. However, we also recognize that privacy is very personal. Thus, we encourage clients to determine which glass type and degree of privacy is right for them. This is why it’s best to review our entire selection in person before you buy. Lastly, you can see our privacy glass options in our Walk of Windows Showroom at our Taylor, TX headquarters.
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What Key Things Should I Consider When Choosing Privacy Glass?
How much privacy glass you need in your home depends on many factors. To begin, you may want to consider how close the average viewer is or will be to any private room. Next, make a list of windows which may require privacy and their precise locations. Then, use the questions below to help you make final decisions about where to use privacy glass:
- Do you have a neighbor ten feet away with a direct line of sight into your bathroom?
- Or perhaps a bathroom or bedroom in the front of your house facing a busy street?
- In general, is your home close to a street or road or far away?
- Is any window in question in a bedroom, bathroom, shower, or perhaps a child’s room?
- How close will inhabitants be to a questionable window when inside your home? Directly in front as in a shower? Or is the window in a closet, over a tub, or somewhere no one will be close by?
- Window height matters as well. Do you have a floor to ceiling window or perhaps a small shower window high on a wall? Somewhere only heads and shoulders are exposed?
- We know that every situation where privacy glass could be used is different. That’s why your Ringer Windows consultant is trained to guide you in making the best decisions for your needs!
Can I Supplement with Blinds or Drapes for More Privacy?
We know from experience that blinds and drapes can actually work together with privacy glass in some cases. That’s why we often advise clients to include blinds or draperies with privacy glass if they’re unsure about exposure. During the day privacy glass works well so you can safely open the blinds and enjoy a secure, private setting. However, if you’re concerned about nighttime confidentiality blinds or drapes provide no doubt about protecting your privacy!
A Final Option: Half Privacy Glass in a Single-Hung Window
The last idea we’d like to offer is using privacy glass in the bottom half of a vertical single-hung window. The truth is most people don’t realize we can install privacy glass in the bottom sash and clear glass above. This option provides concealment where needed and a lot of natural light and great viewing above. We don’t stock this window variant but it’s easy to custom make and incorporate into your home.
Contact us today for a personalized consultation!
