The Benefits of Low-E Glass in UPVC Double Glazed Windows and Doors

Applying a cool, metal oxide coating to clear or tinted glass ensures consistent appearance and performance across varying glass thicknesses. Low-E glass, commonly used in double glazed windows and double glazed doors, leverages advanced technology to enhance your views and comfort. Though it costs about 15% more than ordinary glass, Low-E glass can reduce energy use by 30-50%, optimizing heat gain in winter while blocking harmful UV rays in summer. When integrated into upvc double glazed windows, the benefits are even more pronounced. For hot climates, the low-E coating is best applied to the outside pane of glass. In contrast, for cold climates, it should be on the inside pane to retain heat. Low-E glass is recommended by many energy efficiency experts due to its high performance and aesthetic qualities.

In the 1970s, the introduction of insulated glass and Low-E glass revolutionized window technology. The "E" in Low-E stands for Emissivity, reflecting heat back to its source through an ultra-thin metallic coating. This allows visible light to pass while blocking UV and infrared (IR) light, which can damage materials and generate heat, respectively.

Low-E glass reflects IR light, helping to keep homes cooler in summer by preventing outdoor heat from entering. In winter, it reflects indoor heat back inside, maintaining comfort and energy efficiency. There are two types of Low-E glass: hard coat and soft coat. Hard coat Low-E glass, made by applying tin to molten glass, is scratch-resistant. Soft coat Low-E glass, created by applying a silver layer in a vacuum, is more delicate and is typically sandwiched between two glass panes to prevent oxidation and enhance insulation, often with argon gas.

Low-E glass reduces condensation by keeping the interior surface warmer. For example, on a cold night with 0-degree temperatures and a 15 mph wind, a single pane window might have an inside temperature of 26 degrees, while double pane glass might be 35 degrees. Hard coat Low-E glass would be near 49 degrees, and soft coat Low-E glass at 62 degrees.

Some manufacturers enhance Low-E glass by suspending low-E films between glass panes, achieving high performance and blocking up to 99.5% of UV light. These films can offer insulation values twice that of soft coat Low-E glass. With homes potentially losing up to 40% of heating or cooling through windows, investing in high-quality Low-E glass is a wise choice.

Summer: Low-E glass in energy efficient windows filters long-wave solar radiation, reducing heat gain and keeping your home cooler. It blocks UV radiation and reflects infrared radiation, minimizing heat buildup.

Winter: During winter, Low-E glass lets in warm solar rays while preventing indoor heat from escaping. This reflective property conserves energy and reduces heating costs.

Incorporating Low-E glass in your double glazed windows and doors, especially those manufactured in Sydney, enhances your home's energy efficiency and comfort, making it a valuable investment.