Patterned and fluted glass
Fluted glass and other patterned glass add texture and privacy while letting light through. Reeded, fluted and decorative patterns, cut to size and toughened for doors and screens.
What is fluted glass?
Fluted glass, also called reeded glass, is a patterned glass with a series of parallel ribs pressed into one surface. It is made by passing hot glass between patterned rollers, so the texture is part of the glass rather than a coating.
The ribs bend light and break up the view through the glass, giving privacy while keeping a room bright. Fluted glass has become a favourite for internal doors, shower screens, kitchen cabinets and room dividers because it looks architectural and works in both modern and period homes.
Beyond fluted glass, patterned glass comes in many textures with different levels of privacy, from lightly textured to heavily obscured. Manufacturers grade patterns on a privacy scale, so you can choose how much you want to see through.
Fluted glass specification
- Fluted, reeded and other patterned glass
- Typically 4, 6, 8 and 10 mm
- Toughened or laminated to order
- Ribs vertical or horizontal
- Clear, satin and tinted options
How we supply fluted glass
- Choose a pattern. Pick a fluted glass or other texture and the privacy level you want.
- Confirm orientation. We agree whether the ribs run vertically or horizontally and which side faces out.
- Cut and toughen. The glass is cut, edged, drilled and toughened for doors and showers.
- Deliver. Panels are labelled for orientation so they are fitted the right way round.
Choosing fluted glass and patterned glass
For internal doors and cabinets, a slim fluted glass gives a subtle, refined look. Wider ribs give a bolder, more vintage feel. In bathrooms and showers, place the patterned face away from the wet area so the smooth side is easy to clean.
Patterned glass used in doors, low-level glazing or showers must be toughened or laminated. Very deep patterns cannot always be laminated on the textured face, so we will advise on the build when you order.
If you need plain privacy rather than a textured look, compare fluted glass with satin and frosted glass.
Typical uses for fluted glass
- Internal glass doors and side panels
- Shower screens and bathroom windows
- Kitchen cabinet fronts
- Room dividers and office partitions
- Front door glazing
Fluted glass FAQs
Is fluted glass private?
Fluted glass blurs shapes and gives good privacy at a normal distance. People close to the glass may see outlines, so choose a deeper pattern for bathrooms.
Can fluted glass be toughened?
Yes. Fluted and most other patterned glass can be toughened, which is required for doors and showers.
Is fluted glass hard to clean?
The ribs can hold dust and water marks, so fit the textured side where it is easiest to reach, and clean with a soft brush or microfibre cloth.
What is the difference between fluted and reeded glass?
The terms are often used for the same ribbed look. Some suppliers use reeded for narrow, rounded ribs and fluted for wider, concave grooves.
Can I use fluted glass in a front door?
Yes, normally as part of a sealed double-glazed unit with toughened or laminated glass. We can supply the patterned pane for your door maker.