If you are a homeowner in Canada, you understand the importance of energy efficient windows. A window that is designed of Low-E glass and designed with double or triple panes will provide superior energy efficiency, which makes a huge difference in energy costs.
While most homeowners know that Low-E glass windows are more energy efficient, they are not aware of how they are manufactured. The following article will provide insight into this process.
Check out our website for pricing and information for standard window sizes.
Facts about Low E Glass Windows
Low E, or “Low-emissivity” is a coating that is applied to windows for the following purposes:
- Reduce harmful effects of ultraviolet light
- Provide shade in even the hottest rooms in your home
- Maintain a steady indoor temperature year round in your home
Mostly all the vinyl windows today are equipped with low e glass. However, the amount of Low-E per window is dependant upon the window placement and how much sun the windows will get.
Almost all vinyl windows in Canada today come standard with a low-e coating. How much Low-E is ideal depends on which room the window is located in relative to the Sun? As a homeowner, you have the option of determining exactly how many coats of low-E will be applied to each low e windows.
How is Low E Windows Made
Soft Coat Low E Glass
This type of low e glass is manufactured via a process called “sputtering.” In this method, when the target is bombarded with particles of energy it then rejects the atoms from a solid target, thus applying a silver film to the finished glass. The coating chamber contains glowing plasma and positive ions. These are then attracted to a target that is negatively charged and sticks with a force so powerful that the glass material is the injected atom by atom. This is referred to as a soft coat as it is rather delicate. Hence, it must be protected within a sealed unit.
Hard Coat Low E Glass
In this method, before the glass hardens and is still in the molten phase, a low-E layer of indium oxide is then applied. This type of coating is referred to as hard coating or “pyrolytic” Low E glass due to the hotter temperatures at which it is produced.
3 Most Commonly Applied Low-E Window Coatings for Canadian Residents
LoE 180 Window Glass
This is the standard low E coating to reduce UV rays while keeping your home warm and comfortable This coating is recommended for those windows that face north. LoE 180 is typically included in the price of the window by most Canadian windows and doors suppliers.
LoE 272 Window Glass
This low-e coating provides more superior insulation as well as lower heat loss. Thus coating is recommended for any room of your home.
LoE 366 Window Glass
This low E coating is composed of the same insulation values as LoE 272. However, it also provides additional UV protection. LoE 366 coating reduces up to 95% of the harmful UV rays and is recommended for those windows that face South or West.
When you are ready to upgrade to Low E Glass windows, contact Direct Pro Windows and Doors for a free estimate and consultation. We will assist you in choosing the most energy efficient windows for your home
