Last Updated on November 3, 2021 by Kravelv
Windows are an integral part of any home, and the type you choose will have a big impact on how your property looks. But with so many types to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. Different properties have different needs, too—from energy efficiency for passive homes to cost for new construction projects—so it’s important to take into account what’s going on in your particular situation when making decisions about new or replacement windows. Here is a guide that will help you understand the various types of window glass so that you can make informed choices about what will work best in your own home!
1. Float Glass
Float glass, formed by floating molten glass on the molten tin in order to result in the smoothest large flat panels possible, is named for its process.
This is your basic sheet of glass before it has been cut, treated, or incorporated as part of a window frame. Our low-cost, colorless glass is your starting point for higher-quality windows and doors.
2. Low E Glass
Low-e glass or Low Emission glass systems are often designed to block certain waves of light from the sun. In particular, they block the UV rays that cause damage to skin and fade materials like fabrics such as clothing, furniture, and carpets. At the same time, during cooler months when heat needs to be kept inside a building like home, it does a good job of keeping the heat in.
There are a few ways to cut back on UV rays through windows, but installing low-E glass is the best option. According to a home glass window repair company, these types of windows are only necessary for areas that get sunlight almost all year round such as southwest-facing and western-facing windows. A west-facing window would need these types of glasses.
3. Insulated Glass
Double- and triple-paned windows typically have space for an inert gas sealed in between the panes.
Insulated glass is used in double-pane and triple-pane windows. The panes of glass are separated by a space bar, which is perfect for adding argon or krypton gasses to offer insulation to the windows.
In order to maximize the energy efficiency of a window, it’s important to pay attention not only to its R-value (which is a measure of insulation), but also solar heat gain coefficient and U-factor. If you break the glass in any pane, however, your protection will decrease.
4. Obscured Glass
Designed to be difficult for people on the outside to see into a home – this specific type of glass can’t be fully seen through from the outside. The outer layer obscures visibility. Obscured glass can be used as an extra privacy measure to keep your home safe. If people can’t see inside, it will allow light in while also giving you privacy in rooms like your bathroom. Obscured glass offers a balance between light and privacy, so it’s typically well-suited for bathrooms or other private spaces where this is an issue.
5. Energy Efficient
If you are looking to increase energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly options for window replacement in your home, look no further than ENERGY STAR® windows.
Glass is one of many factors that determine the energy efficiency of a window, whether it’s new or replacement windows. The coating, the insulating air or gas, and even the number of panes all play their own role in this process; each has its own benefits depending on where you live and what your needs are. What you choose can be a variety of options but you should consult with your local residential window replacement company to determine the best course of action for your unique circumstances. In general, you will always want to choose the energy-efficient option but there are different types of energy-efficient windows as well.