When shopping for new windows, you’ll soon find out that windows aren’t just glass panels anymore. Instead, we have options like energy-efficient, double- or triple-pane windows.
In addition to multiple panes, you’ll likely see the term low-E during your shopping process. What are low-E windows? Do you need them? Keep reading to find out.
What are low-E windows?
Short for low emissivity, low-E windows have a microscopic coating that minimizes the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that passes through the glass. By reflecting sunlight instead of letting it all into the house, low-E coating reduces radiant heat emissions and makes a home more thermally efficient.
Advantages of low-E windows
Low-E windows wouldn’t be so popular if they didn’t have a number of benefits. Here are a few of the top reasons to go with low-E:
- Better insulation: Insulation goes a long way in keeping your home comfortable throughout the year—but all the insulation in the world won’t do much good if you have outdated windows. That’s where low-E coating comes into play. Because low-E coating reflects sunlight in the hot summer months and traps it inside in the cooler months, your home is fully insulated and comfortable.
- Reduced energy costs: It’s estimated that up to 50 percent of all energy loss happens due to non-coated windows. The only solution to this problem is upgrading to low-E windows. In fact, the microscopic coating can reduce your yearly energy costs by up to $300.
- Protection against UV rays: Even though we can’t see them, the sun’s UV rays are incredibly harmful. After all, they’re why most of us get a sunburn when we’re outside for too long in the summer. But those UV rays do more than just harm our skin—they can fade furniture, drapes and flooring. Instead of drawing your shades to keep the sun out, upgrade to low-E windows.
- Plenty of sunshine: Just because those harmful UV rays can’t get through doesn’t mean your home won’t be flooded with natural light. Low-E coating allows nearly all visible light to come through. These windows do have a slight tint; however, it’s hardly noticeable.
- Long-lasting: There’s no need to worry about the coating starting to peel off or getting scratched or It’s applied evenly across the entire glass surface, so you can trust that the coating will stay on for the long haul.
Are low-E windows worth it?
The answer to this one is pretty straightforward: Yes, low-E windows are absolutely worth it. Windows with low-E coating are only a little bit more expensive than windows without it. Plus, with the energy savings you’ll see every month, the low-E coating can pay for itself over time.
Where can I get the best low-E windows?
For the top low-E windows in town at the best prices, look no further than The Glass Shop. Contact us today to get your free in-home estimate to see what low-E windows can do for you, your home and your energy bill.