When you are shopping for new windows for your home, you will no doubt learn about low-emittance, or low E, glass. Educate yourself on the types of low E windows that are available so that you can make an educated purchasing decision when you buy new Low E windows in Houston.
The first thing to know is that it is not actually the glass that has low emittance but rather a coating that is applied to the glass surface. The low E coating is a virtually invisible, microscopically thin layer made of either metal or metallic oxide. This coating is adhered to the window or glass pane and works to limit the UV rays that are allowed through the glass by suppressing the overall heat flow. All Low E windows in Houston will be double glazed but the level of UV reduction will vary and typically comes in three types.
One level of Low E windows in Houston is classified as high solar gain. This type of window is filled between the panes with argon gas and is designed to limit the loss of energy but allow solar rays to penetrate the glass. These are typically installed in buildings in cooler climates where heat is used more than air conditioning. As such, you will often see these used in building projects featuring a passive solar design element.
Another type of low emittance window is that with a moderate solar gain, or spectrally selective low emittance glass. Also filled with argon gas, these windows limit energy loss while simultaneously reducing the amount of solar heat that is transmitted through the glass. This is accomplished by the addition of the low E coating on the glass. These windows are ideally suited for climates that need both heating and air conditioning indoors at different times of the year. As such, the moderate solar gain window is a good choice when selecting Low E windows in Houston.
The third common type of low emittance window you will see is a low solar gain version. Again filled with argon gas and built to limit energy loss, these windows feature a coating that most dramatically prevents the transmission of solar rays, allowing an average of only 27% of solar heat through. The low solar gain window is best used in climates when air conditioning is the predominate need.
Once you understand the types of low emittance windows available, you will be able to make the right selection for your needs.
LOW E windows Houston – Value Windows & Doors offers LOW E windows and all their vinyl windows are certified by Energy Star, NFRC, and AAMA. Visit them now.
