You may have heard of low-E glass, especially now that more and more people are trying to make their homes as energy-efficient as possible. It’s not the most cost-effective option up front, but its qualities can actually save you significant amounts of money in the long run on your energy bills. Your provider of replacement windows near Livermore, CA, can introduce you to more details about low-E glass, but here are the basics.
Low-Emissivity glass is glass that has been coated with an extremely thin metallic layer. This glazing coating is so thin that it is not perceptible to the human eye. However, it is effective at blocking infrared rays from sunlight, which are one of the main external sources of heat entering our homes. By reflecting the heat given by sunlight, it reduces the need for artificial cooling in your home. This, in turn, uses fewer resources and saves you money on your monthly cooling bills. These windows still let in the full amount of natural light, as well, meaning that you won’t need to use any extra indoor lighting to compensate.
In addition to blocking infrared light, low-E windows are also resistant to UV rays. These harmful rays can be damaging to your possessions over time, causing colors to fade and materials to weaken. UV rays can also be harmful to your skin at high doses. By blocking UV rays from entering your home, low-E windows help to protect your family and your belongings.
While low-E windows are very effective at reflecting heat away from your home, they are also great for keeping the heat in during the cold months. The metallic glaze coating works similarly to reflect the radiant heat back into your home, especially when combined with double-paned insulated windows. Essentially, the transfer of heat from one glass pane to the next is substantially lowered with a low-E coating. This means that your home can maintain a more constant temperature, and your use of heating and cooling will lower significantly. Low-E windows also reduce glare from the sunlight in your home, which is a benefit that anyone can appreciate.
It’s important to note that low-E windows do come at a higher price than typical windows. However, if you have the budget to afford this kind of investment, you will see benefits and save money in the long term. Because of the reduced heating and cooling that your home will need, you will notice significant savings on your energy bills, year-round.
If you’re looking to get replacement windows near Livermore, CA, and you’re interested in learning more about your options, speak with your installer. They will be able to help you understand all the pros and cons of each type of glass, and why it might be beneficial in your home. Low-E windows are one of the most efficient types of window glass you can buy, and you will notice both immediate and long-term benefits from your investment. Ask your contractor or window installer today to learn more about what kind of low-E window options they have to offer.