Understanding Low-E Glass: Common Questions Answered

Energy-efficient windows are important to households. These help reduce monthly energy consumption and bill. The secret to energy-efficient windows is in the glass. The quality of the frame and the kind of installation also matters.

The kind of glass that you use determines the window’s level of energy efficiency. Low-E glass is your best choice for maximum energy efficiency. First, we answer the common questions that homeowners have on a Low-E window replacement in Lake Oswego, OR.

What is Low-E Glass?

Low emissivity or Low-E is a special coating used in the glass. This coating lessens the amount of ultraviolet rays and infrared light that passes through the glass without compromising the visible light. As the glass absorbs heat or light energy, this special coating reradiates these particles. During winter, the heat energy that tries to escape outside is reflected indoors. The reverse happens in summer. Low-E glass help keep homes dry and comfortable while increasing energy savings in different seasons.

How do you measure its effectiveness?

We measure the efficiency of a glass by checking the U-Value, Visible Light Transmittance, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), and Light to Solar Gain. The U-value gauges the heat loss and Visible Light Transmittance (VLT) measures the amount of light that pass through the window. On the other hand, SHGC measures how much heat energy your window transmits. Light to Solar Gain is the ratio of SHGC and VLT. These values will help homeowners pick the right window for their households.

Where do you get windows with Low-E glass?

Erin Isle Construction offers windows with Low-E glass. These come from Simonton, Milgard, and Plygem — brands that are ENERGY STAR certified. We provide energy-efficient windows, which means more energy savings and superb value for homeowners. Moreover, we install awning, bay, bow, casement, double-hung, sliding, and picture windows. All of our replacement windows in Portland, Oregon are durable, long lasting, and energy-efficient.

We hope that this post answers most of your common questions on Low-E glass. If you have more questions or if you want to learn more about our products, call us at (503) 691-9096. Feel free to fill out our contact form on the right side of our Contact Us page for a no obligation consultation.