Uncover How Low-E Glass Can Enhance Your Windows
When the time comes to replace your windows, you have the ability to customize many features — including frame material, glass type, coatings, pane count, hardware and more.
WindowPRO has helped Dearborn and Southeast Michigan homeowners find their perfect windows and doors for over 100 years now, and we want you to feel comfortable making decisions about your window replacement! That’s why we have answers to all your questions in our Learning Center. In this blog, we’ll explore what low-e glass is and how its use can help your property.
What Sets Low-E Glass Apart?
Low-e glass, short for low emissivity glass, is a type of glass that is specially designed to reduce heat transfer and minimize energy loss in buildings. It’s a popular choice for windows and doors, as it provides numerous benefits in terms of energy efficiency and comfort.
The Benefits Of Low-E Glass
Investing in low-E glass offers a variety of advantages for your property, and our team is here to share examples to help you understand what makes this glass type a great option to consider!
Energy Efficiency And Savings
The primary benefit of low-e glass is its energy efficiency. By minimizing the transfer of heat that occurs through your windows, your air conditioner and heater will be able to operate more effectively. This not only helps to reduce utility bills but also lowers carbon emissions, making low-e glass an environmentally friendly choice.
Comfort And Climate Control
Another advantage of low-e glass is its ability to provide better climate control. It keeps the indoor temperature stable, eliminating uncomfortable hot and cold spots and providing a more comfortable environment. By reflecting the sun’s heat, the glass prevents excessive heat gain during summer, reducing the need for air conditioning.
Sound Insulation
Low-e glass is known for its sound insulation properties. By reducing noise transmission, it helps create a quieter indoor environment, especially in urban areas or near busy roads. This can lead to a more peaceful and restful atmosphere that enhances the overall quality of life for occupants.
Furniture Preservation
Low-E glass blocks harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause furniture, flooring and other interior elements to fade. By minimizing UV transmission, this glass type helps preserve the color and condition of furnishings, ensuring they remain vibrant and fresh for longer periods.
Durability Of Material
Compared to traditional glass, low-E glass is highly durable and requires minimal maintenance. Its special coating helps repel dirt and water spots, which makes it easier to clean and maintain clarity over time. This longevity adds to the cost-effectiveness of low-E glass, as it reduces the need for frequent replacements or repairs.
Discover Different Types Of Low-E Glass
Low-e glass comes in two main types: hard-coat low-e glass and soft-coat low-e glass. Each type offers unique benefits and is suited for different applications, depending on the desired outcome.
What Is Hard-Coat Low-E Glass?
Hard-coat low-e glass is created by applying a thin layer of tin dioxide directly to the glass surface while it’s still in a molten state. This process results in a durable coating that is highly resistant to scratches and damage.
This option is commonly used in commercial buildings and high-traffic areas where durability is a key factor. Its robust nature makes it ideal for applications where maintenance is a concern.
Additionally, hard-coat low-e glass is known for its ability to reduce glare and block UV rays. This makes it a popular choice for structures that require protection from harsh sunlight while maintaining visibility. Its longevity and ease of cleaning further add to its appeal for commercial projects.
Explore The Features Of Soft-Coat Low-E Glass
Soft-coat low-e glass is manufactured in a vacuum chamber using a process called sputter deposition. This technique creates a delicate, highly reflective coating that provides excellent insulation properties. Soft-coat low-e glass is preferred for residential applications where energy efficiency is a top priority.
Due to its superior thermal performance, soft-coat low-e glass helps reduce heating and cooling costs by minimizing heat transfer through windows. Its ability to maintain a consistent indoor temperature by reflecting heat back into the room during winter and blocking excess heat during summer makes it a popular choice among homeowners.
Residential Applications For Low-E Glass
Low-e glass is widely used in residential applications, particularly for windows and doors. It helps to reduce heat loss during winter, keeping homes warm and cozy. Additionally, it blocks harmful UV rays, protecting interiors from fading and maintaining the integrity of furnishings.
With its energy-saving properties, low-e glass is a beneficial addition to any home, contributing to energy efficiency and comfort. Imagine waking up on a chilly winter morning, snuggled up in your warm bed, and looking out of your low-e glass window. As you gaze at the frost-covered landscape, you can’t help but appreciate the insulation properties of this remarkable glass.
The low emissivity coating on the glass surface acts as a shield, preventing the escape of heat from your home. This not only keeps you comfortable but also reduces your heating bills, allowing you to enjoy a cozy home without breaking the bank.
Commercial Use Of Low-E Glass In Windows
Low-e glass also finds extensive use in commercial buildings — such as offices, shopping malls and hotels. The energy efficiency it provides helps to reduce the building’s carbon footprint and lower operating costs. The superior thermal insulation properties contribute to a comfortable working or shopping environment, enhancing the overall occupant experience.
Commercial establishments can benefit greatly from the installation of low-e glass in terms of energy savings and sustainability. Picture yourself walking into a bustling shopping mall on a scorching summer day. As you step inside, you immediately feel a refreshing coolness envelop you. This pleasant experience can be made possible by the low-e glass used in the mall’s windows and skylights.
By reflecting a significant portion of the sun’s heat, low-e glass helps to maintain a comfortable temperature inside, reducing the need for excessive air conditioning. Not only does this create a more enjoyable shopping experience, but it also reduces the mall’s energy consumption, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Call Our Team For Top-Rated Window Replacement Services
Low-e glass is an innovative solution that offers numerous advantages. With its ability to minimize heat transfer, block UV rays and maintain a stable indoor temperature, low-E glass is a valuable addition to any building. Be sure to consider it for your next window installation!
If you’re thinking about replacing your windows, reach out to our team at WindowPRO. Not only do we provide dependable installation services, but we’re also here to answer questions you may have about materials or the process.
