Summary
- Low-e Glass Windows are Energy Efficient.
- Low-e Glass Windows offer Ultra-violet light protection.
- Low-e Coated Glass reduces heat transfer/heat gain.
- Low-e Glass makes your home more comfortable
- Reduces Glare and Controls Condensation.
- An Eco-friendly way to increase home value.
Low-emissivity (low-e) glass windows offer several advantages, especially in a hot and humid climate like Houston’s. Here are the top benefits:
1. Energy Efficiency – Low-e coatings reflect heat while allowing natural light in, reducing the need for air conditioning and lowering energy bills. Compared to clear glass, this is a real game changer.
2. UV Protection – Blocks up to 99% of harmful UV rays, preventing fading and damage to furniture, flooring, and décor. I think we can all agree that we don’t want to replace furniture and flooring every 4-5 years!
3. Heat Reduction – Helps keep indoor spaces cooler by reflecting infrared heat, which is crucial in Houston’s hot summers. Clear windows offer no protection against infrared heat. Surfaces no longer get hot.
4. Improved Comfort – Low-e glass windows reduce temperature fluctuations and hot spots near windows, maintaining a more consistent indoor climate. Family and guests will be more comfortable throughout the house.
5. Reduced Glare – Helps minimize glare from the sun, making it more comfortable to watch screens and reducing eye strain. Low-e glass windows makes it easier to watch TV or play games without the glare from the sun.
6. Condensation Control – Limits condensation buildup, preventing moisture-related issues like mold and mildew. When you can control the temperature variance between inside glass surface and outside glass surface, condensation doesn’t occur.
7. Eco-Friendly – By improving insulation and reducing energy consumption, low-e glass lowers carbon footprints. When we all work together to fight global warming, our future generations benefit.
8. Increased Property Value – Homes with energy-efficient features, including low-e glass, are more attractive to buyers and can command higher prices. The total return-on-investment for replacement windows is a combination of energy savings (typically over 13%), an boost in resale value (reports in the industry estimate 60%-70% cost recovery).
What Exactly Is a Low-e Coating?
The process and number of coats for producing low emissivity glass varies by glass manufacturer. Houston Window Experts installs low-e glass windows from almost 2 dozen manufacturers. In most cases, like in Houston’s hot and humid climate, the best low-e glass is manufactured by Cardinal Glass. Cardinal LoE3 366® glass is designed to block heat while allowing maximum visible light.
Cardinal LoE3 366 has 3 microscopic invisible coatings of silver on the glass to reflect heat away while still allowing 66% of visible light to enter the room. You’ll be more comfortable without the room becoming too dark!
Of course, you don’t rely on the glass by itself. Energy efficient low-e glass windows work together in synergy with the frame material, installation process, and gas fills (argon or krypton gases).
Diving In To The Details Of Cardinal Low-e Glass Windows
Superior Heat Rejection – With its triple silver coating, it reflects a significant amount of solar heat while allowing natural light in, keeping your home cooler.
Low Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) – Its SHGC is around 0.27, meaning it blocks about 73% of solar heat, which is ideal for Houston’s hot summers.
High Visible Light Transmission (VLT) – It still allows plenty of daylight (around 66% VLT), preventing your home from feeling too dark.
UV Protection – Blocks 95% of harmful UV rays, preventing fading of furniture, flooring, and décor.
Energy Savings – Reduces air conditioning costs, making it a cost-effective investment.
So, if you want the most benefits, ask us for Cardinal LoE-3 366 because it is the best choice for Houston’s hot, humid climate.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Is Low-E Glass Worth the Cost?
A: Yes, while it costs more than regular glass, the long-term energy savings and home comfort improvements often make up for the initial investment.
Q: Does Low-E Glass Make My Home Too Dark?
A: No, most modern low-e coatings allow plenty of natural light while blocking heat and UV rays. However, different coatings have varying levels of light transmission.
Q: How Do I Know If My Windows Have Low-E Glass?
A: You can do a simple test using a lighter or a flashlight:
-Hold the flame near the glass and observe the reflections.
-If one reflection appears a different color (slightly tinted or darker) than the others, it likely has a low-e coating.
Q: Will Low-E Glass Affect My Wi-Fi or Cell Signal?
A: No, standard low-e coatings do not interfere with Wi-Fi or cellular signals. Some metallic coatings in specialized glass may slightly reduce signal strength, but it’s rare in residential applications.
Q: Can I Add Low-E Coating to My Existing Windows?
A: Yes, low-e window films are available, but they are not as effective as factory-applied coatings in double- or triple-pane windows.
Q: What Is the Difference Between Low-E2 and Low-E3 Glass?
A: Low-E2 (Double Silver Coating) – Blocks heat but allows more light; good for moderate climates.
Low-E3 (Triple Silver Coating) – Blocks more heat and UV rays; better for hot climates like Houston.
Q: Does Low-E Glass Work with Any Window Frame Material?
A: Yes! It can be used with vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum, or wood window frames, though some materials insulate better than others.
Q: Is all Cardinal Glass LoE3 366?
A: Cardinal manufactures 4 different types which are designed for certain climates:
-LoĒ²-272 – Balanced heat control, good for mixed climates.
-LoĒ²-270 – Better heat rejection, ideal for warm climates.
–LoĒ³-366 – Best for hot climates like Houston (triple silver layer, superior solar control).
-LoĒ³-340 – Superior glare and heat control, ideal for extreme sun exposure.
