When it comes to your windows, the type of glass they have can greatly affect their energy-efficiency. This is especially true with how about 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through its windows and about 76% of sunlight in cooling seasons can become heat, as stated by the Department of Energy. However, it can be confusing to know what low-E means in windows and what this means for making your windows more energy efficient.
So, here’s a brief overview of what low-E means in windows and why this matters. Let’s get into it.
What Does Low-E Mean?
Low-E stands for low-emissivity. If your windows are low-E, this means that their glass has a very thin coating that minimizes the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light that can come through your glass, aka, reflecting heat. What this means for you is that they help to keep your house’s temperature more consistent through reflecting the interior temperature back inside.
Different Types Of Low-E Coatings
There are a few different types of low-E coatings for your glass. The appropriate type of coating for your windows will depend on the climate that you live in.
Hard Coat
Also known as passive coatings, these are pyrolytic coatings that are applied to glass ribbon while it is being produced on the float line. This causes the coating to “fuse” to the hot glass, thus creating a very strong bond, aka – a hard coat.
Soft Coat
Also known as solar control coatings, these are applied off-line, when the glass is in a vacuum chamber at room temperature. Thus, this needs to be sealed in a laminated unit or insulated glass. It has lower emissivity and better solar control than passive coatings.
Why Are Low-E Coatings Important?
You know how we mentioned energy loss at the start of the blog? Low-E coatings help to prevent that, making your home more comfortable, all year round. The more energy efficient your home is, the more pleasant a place it will be to reside. Plus, the lower your energy bills will be. Why spend more on energy than you have to or deal with rising energy bills from factors that you can control?
Some of the benefits you can experience from using low-E coatings include the followings:
- Reduction in heat loss
- Cost savings
- Durability
- Protection against UV damage
- And more!
What Type Of Low-E Coating Do You Need?
As previously mentioned, this will depend on the climate that you live in. If you live somewhere very cold, then you may prefer hard coating, because of how they’ll allow some of the sun’s energy through your windows. However, if you live somewhere that ranges from hot to cold, you’ll probably prefer a soft coating, due to its superior UV protection and U-value.
If ever you have any questions about the best windows or glass for your needs, it’s best to consult with a local window professional. They’ll be able to provide you with personalized advice so that you can make the best choice for your specific needs.
High-Quality Low-E Windows In And Around Kaysville, UT
Creekside Windows & Glass provides the top-quality window and glass services you need for your home in Northern Utah. Whether you live near the base and you want soundproof windows or you’re doing a new construction build or you have broken windows that need fixing, we’re here to help! We offer window installation, window replacement, window repair, shower doors, and so much more.
Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer and if we can help you with the work you need done.
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