Vinyl Low E Window Differences-Low-E W/Argon & Heat Mirror Dual/Double Pane Insulated Windows

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Anyone would be hard pressed today to turn on the news and avoid two of the most important issues influencing us as consumers and inhabitants of our planet—energy conservation and saving money. Now more than ever we are faced with considering ways we can make changes in our own households to be both more energy conscious and financially responsible, and one way to accomplish that is by installing windows that keep us from throwing money and energy resources literally out the window.

Heat Mirror vs. Low-E. Does it matter?

Not all glass is created equal, but the type of glass you decide upon for your home should be determined by factors such as climate, shading over your home, the potential for condensation and various ratings for the glass such as the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) and the shading coefficient (SC). Without becoming too technical in the explanations, there are specific differences in Heat Mirror and low-e that will help you to decide which glazing would perform best in your home.

The Mirror That Wasn´t

By the title one might be inclined to consider Heat Mirror to be a visually reflective coating, but in all actuality what heat mirror reflects is heat in the solar spectrum back to the source while allowing in natural light. In other words, the components of sunlight that allow heat to build up inside of the home are reflected back to the outside. Conversely, heat on the inside of the home is also reflected back indoors making this type of glass an efficient choice for keeping heat out in the summer and inside in the winter. Of the types of glazing available, Heat Mirror is currently the most effective choice for filtering out harmful ultraviolet rays.

Low-E Within, Low-E Without

Low-e or low emissivity glass was a technology developed in the 1970´s to also reflect heat back to the outside, but is not as effective as Heat Mirror in filtering ultraviolet rays or retaining heat inside of a home on its own. It is a better option than clear double pane glass in that it deflects near infrared heat from the outside surface of the windows, but its performance is best when applied in a sputtered or soft coat process sealed inside an insulating glass unit. Should the seal be broken or compromised, the low-e coating loses its effectiveness. That also holds true for Heat Mirror so a well manufactured insulated glass pack is a must in deciding on replacement windows.

A Nobler Gas There Ne´er Wert

Argon could have very well have been the name of a character in a Shakespearean play, but today we know argon as the noble gas that gives a boost to your window´s glazing in keeping heat at bay inside of your home. An inert and non-reactive gas, argon reduces the conductance of air between the spaces within an insulated glass unit making your windows even more efficient. When deciding upon windows for your home, argon or krypton filled insulated glass units are an important but simple option to consider in keeping your family comfortable and heating costs lower.

Putting It All Together

Whether Heat Mirror or low-e is the option you choose for your replacement windows, the construction of the window frame is just as important in the performance of your glass style. Vinyl windows have become the most popular choice when it comes to low maintenance and longevity, but pay attention to the quality of vinyl used (i.e. virgin vinyl opposed to recycled), whether the frame has single construction or various moving parts that can wear out or break off over time and the warranty that comes with the insulated glass units.

Your window contractor should be able to give you demonstrations on the type of glass and window style that will perform best in your home as well as provide detailed information regarding the kind of savings you can expect from your window replacement. Replacing drafty single paned glass windows with more energy and cost efficient insulated glass and frames is a decision that both your wallet and conscience will be happy you made.

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Mike Brexler/ C. F. McPherson