How To Choose the Perfect Glass for Windows

Searching for the best glass options for windows? Whether you’re looking to improve your energy efficiency or let in more natural light, its’ vital to know the best type of glass panel to use in new windows. Skimp on this, and rooms can overheat in summer and feel super cold in the winter.

The right glass can help you make your windows work for you- between multi-pane options and energy-efficient coatings, a pro can ensure you decide on windows that perform at optimum efficiency throughout the year. Below you rush into building integrated photovoltaics, below are a few tips to keep in mind while choosing the perfect glass for windows.

Low-E Vs. Tempered Glass

It is in your best interest to understand the difference between Low-E and Tempered Glass before commencing your search. A low-emittance coating is a thin layer of metal applied to one side of the glass. Also calls low-e glass, the coating is nearly invisible and slows down the rate the heat transfers through the glass pane.

Tempered glass, on the other hand, is the smartest choice for windows and other glass structures in your home. It is heated and then cooled very quickly during the manufacturing process. The rapid change in temperature makes it about four time stronger than untreated glass.

Air or Inert Gas

What’s the best window glass filling, air or inert gas? You might not know this, but IGUs were once filled with air. But heat and cold moved through the windows easily, reducing the effect of the double panes. Replacing air with a less conducive gas helps reduce heat transfer thus improving the performance of the glazing and lowering the unit’s U-factor, or rate of heat transfer.

The vast majority of IGus manufactured today are filled with either argon or krypton gas. Argon gas is more widely used since its’ more cost-effective than krypton. However, Krypton gas does take up less space than argon gas.

The Bottom Line

If you’re like most homeowners, there is a good chance you think about frame material first when it comes to replacement windows. While the actual glass installed in those frames may seem like an afterthought, they do play a vital role.

That’s why you need to be cautious before going with spandrel glass, reflective glass or any other type for that matter. In short, always do your homework before making this all-important decision for your house.