Windows allow solar energy to enter a building providing light and heat. Almost all the sun's energy passes through the clear glass and strikes objects in the room where it is absorbed by furnishings, flooring and the building itself. It is then re-radiated and given off as heat. However, as heat flows to areas of low temperature, up to two-thirds of this heat is lost during the heating season, through the window glass.
Clear Glass |
Low-E Glass |
Low E Glass
One of the newest innovations in energy efficient windows is Low Emissivity, or Low E glass. This is glass which has an invisible coating which reflects long wave radiation back into your home (keeping heat in) while allowing short wave (solar) heat radiation to enter. This helps reduce heating costs of your home in winter. By not allowing heat to escape, the temperature of the glass inside your home is kept warmer which reduces that cold uncomfortable feeling near windows. Low E coatings are also known to reduce the harmful ultraviolet rays which cause fading of interior finishes.
Argon
Argon gas is most commonly used in the ordinary incandescent lightbulb; it is clear, non toxic, and non flammable. The space between the two panes of glass is filled with Argon gas, because thermal conductivity of this inert gas is lower than air. Result? Heat loss is reduced and energy efficiency is improved. When considering the Argon gas option, ensure your supplier is selling
you a window which has been tested and is capable of retaining the gas once installed. A window that leaks Argon, will take away both the thermal and monetary value of your investment. Swiggle Seal is the only Warm Edge insulating glass system to pass the DIN standard of Argon gas retention in North America today .
