When it comes to windows, the type of glass you choose is a critical consideration. Low-E glass is a new and effective solution to temperature control in hot climates like Arizona. Experts estimate that 70% of energy loss occurs in windows and doors, while 90% of window heat loss occurs through the glass. If you live in Arizona, you know the importance of energy efficiency and maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home.
In this article, we’ll explain what Low-E glass is, how it helps conserve energy, the different types of Low-E coatings, and which type is best for your Arizona home.
What is Low-E Glass?
Low-E glass, or low emissivity glass, is a special type of glass that minimizes the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light that comes through your glass, without affecting the amount of light that enters your home. Low emissivity refers to a surface condition that emits low levels of radiant thermal energy. Low-E glass windows have a thin, transparent coating that maintains consistent temperatures in your home by reflecting the interior temperatures back inside.
The only difference between Low-E glass and traditional clear glazing is the coating which creates a slight tint comparable to a tinted car window.
Benefits of Low-E Glass
There are a number of benefits to Low-E Glass that Arizona homeowners can take advantage of to improve their living experience.
Better Temperature Control
The main benefit of Low E glass is better temperature control in your home, which is an absolute must in Arizona. Last year alone, Phoenix saw 52 total days of temperatures 110 degrees or higher according to the National Weather Service. Low-e glass can be a lifesaver when it comes to combating this Southwestern heat. The glass both keeps the climate-controlled air inside and stops heat from the outside from entering, reducing the need to adjust your AC and heating system. This type of glass is also weatherproofed which prevents any unwanted effects from natural elements.
UV Ray Protection
Another benefit of Low-E glass for Arizona homeowners is protection from UV rays. UV light poses a number of risks to your health and home including sunburns, eye problems, and damage to your furniture. Because Low e glass is equipped with a UV filter, you no longer have to worry about accumulative damage from UV rays. Low-E glass also protects your furniture from fading leading to decreased replacement costs.
Energy Bill Saving
Installing Low-E glass in Arizona is one of the easiest ways to cut down on your energy bill. Because Low-E glass still lets in natural light, you can rely on sunlight rather than electricity during the daytime to heat and light your home and conserve energy. Cover Glass enhances your property with Low-E technology via a spectrally selective coating, as opposed to traditional clear glazing to reduce the risk of air leakages, which will help you maintain a comfortable temperature and lower your heating and cooling bills.
Types of Low-E Glass Coatings
Passive Low-E Coatings (Hard-Coat)
Passive Low-E coatings are manufactured through thermal decomposition at high temperatures in order to change the chemical composition of the coating. The coating is then applied to the glass ribbon while it is being produced, which causes the coating to fuse to the hot glass surface. This creates a strong bond, or “hard-coat,” that is very durable.
Hard-coat Low-E glass is best for colder climates because it allows some of the sun’s energy to pass through the glass. This helps to heat homes in the winter by reflecting the interior heat energy back inside.
Solar Control Low-E Coatings (Soft-Coat)
Solar control Low-E coatings are manufactured by applying the coating outside of the production line to pre-cut glass in a vacuum chamber at room temperature. This coating, which is also referred to as “soft-coat,” is sealed in an insulated glass (IG) or laminated unit. The soft-coat has lower emissivity and better UV control to protect from solar rays.
Soft-coat Low-E glass is ideal for Arizona homes because it offers better UV protection and reflects the warm and cool air back into your room instead of allowing it to leak outside.
Invest in Low-E Glass for Your Arizona Home
Ready to reduce your bills and elevate your home at the same time? At Cover Glass, we’re proud to offer beautiful frameless glass products that do both, thanks to their weatherproofed properties and Low-E technology. Compared to standard glass, Cover Glass proves superior in cost-savings, energy-efficient, and of course overall aesthetics.
Visit us through our Arizona Distributor, or request an online consultation to connect with our glass door and window experts to find out how Cover Glass can provide you with more energy savings in Arizona this summer.
Want to learn more about our Low-E Glass technology?
