Quick Q&A: What are Low-E Windows?

Quick Q:

What are Low-E windows, and are they right for me?

Quick A:

Low-E windows are double paned windows that have a special material applied to the glass during manufacturing. This provides protection against ultra-violet (UV) rays that increase the temperature within the home and also fade upholstery, carpets, and other fabrics upon which the sunlight falls.

Low-E windows are commonly used throughout the entire United States, including South Central Pennsylvania. Without getting too technical, we’ll say that there are different types of Low-E windows based upon their intended use, location, and UV ratings. Low-E windows differ one from another primarily by the material application site on the window (in other words, where the manufacturer puts the “special glaze”). It’s either on the inside pane of glass (generally for cooler climates) or on the outer pane of glass (generally for warmer climates). Most Low-E windows used in South Central PA would be of the variety designed for cooler climates. Manufacturers have different ratings for various regions of the U.S. and typically these ratings are driven by local ordinances when building new homes.

The Bottom Line

Low-E windows have a special material or “glaze” applied to their glass that helps prevent unwanted radiation (such as UV rays) from passing through the window (while still allowing visible light to pass through). Low-E windows should be considered by any homeowner wishing to make their home more energy-efficient or simply wishing to save their upholstery or other fabrics from premature fading.

For professional assistance with this and other home maintenance work, Tuckey is the local expert to call. Keep our number handy – you never know when you might need us! Call (717) 524-1136 or visit www.tuckey.com for more information.

(Picture By Nieuw (Own work) [GFDL (https://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC-BY-SA-3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/)], via Wikimedia Commons)