When designing your custom shelving unit, every detail matters—especially the type of glass you choose. From safety to style, the right glass can elevate both the function and aesthetics of your shelves. At Soil & Oak, we work with clients every day to find the best material for their space. So let’s break down the most common glass options and help you decide what’s right for your project.
What Is Tempered Glass?
Tempered glass, also known as safety glass, is the top choice for most shelving applications—and for good reason.
Tempered glass is up to four times stronger than regular (annealed) glass, making it a more durable and secure option. If it does break, it shatters into small, blunt chunks instead of sharp, dangerous shards—greatly reducing the risk of injury.
At Soil & Oak, we recommend tempered glass for all shelving projects because it offers peace of mind, especially in homes with kids, pets, or high-traffic areas.
What Is Low Iron Glass?
Low iron glass is a type of clear glass that has reduced iron content, giving it a crystal-clear appearance. While standard clear glass has a slight green tint, especially along the edges, low iron glass appears much clearer and more transparent.
This option is perfect if you're going for a modern, minimal, or high-end look—and want your shelf contents to shine without any color distortion.
What Glass Is Right for My Project?
Here are the key factors to consider when selecting the right glass for your custom shelving unit:
1. Safety and Strength
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Tempered glass is our top recommendation because it’s stronger and much safer than regular annealed glass.
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It's ideal for both residential and commercial settings.
2. Glass Thickness
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3/8" thick glass is the most popular choice for home shelving. It offers a clean look and ample weight support for most personal-use scenarios.
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1/2" thick glass is better suited for commercial or restaurant settings, where shelves may need to support heavier items or endure more frequent use.
Need help determining your shelf’s weight limits? Your Soil & Oak designer is happy to help!
3. Glass Tint and Appearance
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Standard clear glass has a soft green tint, especially at the edges.
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Low iron glass provides a more transparent, high-clarity look.
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Grey or smoked glass offers a moody, dramatic aesthetic—perfect for creating contrast or enhancing a dark, industrial vibe.
Remember: Glass tint is purely a style choice—it doesn’t affect the strength or safety of the glass.
Choosing the right glass for your custom shelving unit comes down to how you’ll use it, where it’s going, and what kind of look you want. At Soil & Oak, we always recommend tempered glass for its strength and safety, and offer options in various tints and thicknesses to suit your space.
Not sure which thickness or finish is best for your project? Connect with a Soil & Oak designer, and we’ll guide you through every detail.
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Explore our gallery or contact us to get started.