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LOW-E FILM CONTROLS LIGHT AND THERMAL TRANSMISSION With its low-emittance surface facing the room, low-e film also helps lower solar heat gain during the cooling season, as a greater fraction of the energy absorbed by the window is prevented from entering the building.
Can I add Low-E coating to windows?
If the glass is also treated with a “Low-E” (low-emissivity) coating – which improves the thermal efficiency of a window – the U-Factor of that same double-pane window could be as low as 0.55. Many of today’s most advanced window films can be used in conjunction with a Low-E coating, to help further reduce heat loss.
What Is a Low-E coating on windows?
Low-E coatings have been developed to minimize the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that can pass through glass without compromising the amount of visible light that is transmitted. When heat or light energy is absorbed by glass, it is either shifted away by moving air or re-radiated by the glass surface.
Can you put window film on Low-E glass?
“You can’t put Window Film on a dual pane or Low E glass”—False. In fact, certain window films are made especially for Dual Pane or Low-E glass. It is True that not all types of window film are compatible with all types of glass and installing a non-compatible film can cause thermal stress damage to the seals or glass.
Is Low-E glass worth the money?
Absolutely! Low-e glass options are definitely worth the investment. For just a few more dollars than standard glass, you get the energy savings, improved year-round comfort, and protection from low-e glass. And that little extra cost can pay for itself with the money you’ll save on utility bills!Dec 28, 2016.
How long do low-E windows last?
Low-emittance or low-e window film is very durable and will last for years. Its average life expectancy is 10 to 15 years, which will vary depending on climate and whether you use it mainly on the outside of your windows, where it is exposed to the elements.
Can Low-E be applied to existing windows?
Low-E means “low-emissivity.” Low-E films usually contain metal or metal oxide as the material that counteracts the UV rays. If you aren’t prepared to replace your old windows with new, energy-efficient windows that feature factory-applied low-E coatings, applying low-E film can be a viable, cost-saving alternative.
How can you tell if glass is Low-E?
How Can Homeowners Tell if Their Windows Have Low-E Glass? Hold a lit match or a pen light up in front of the window. If the window contains low-e glass, one of the images will be a different color than the rest of the images. If the window does not have low-e glass, the four reflected images will be the same color.
Is Low E 366 worth it?
The ultimate performance glass, Low-E 366 provides the highest levels of year-round comfort and greatest energy savings. Its patented coating offers an ideal balance of solar control and high visibility. Blocking up to 95% of the sun’s damaging rays, Low-E 366 glass sets a new standard in energy performance.
Does Low-E windows keep heat out?
No! Low-e glass blocks excessive heat and UV rays that can harm plants, as well as providing extra insulation during cold weather.
Does Gila window film go inside or outside?
A: All Gila Window Films are safe for dual pane windows if used correctly. Most can be applied to the inside of dual pane windows with the exception of Glare Control and Privacy Control Black (outside only). Q: Why is Gila Application Solution important?.
Can I use Windex to apply Gila window film?
Do not use Windex or other household cleaners on the glass as the film does not adhere well and the chemicals in the cleaners can degrade the plastic. When the glass is clean, clean it or let it air dry. Cut the film to the size of a straight edge.
Does window film ruin windows?
There is absolutely no evidence showing that window film can cause windows to become foggy. Modern window film technology is quite durable and won’t change in appearance under long-term UV exposure.
Why do Low-E windows look green?
Building code requires that replacement windows include Low-E glass, which is very efficient at blocking solar heat and reducing damage from UV light. Unfortunately, Low-E glass provides a blue/green coloration to the glass that many homeowners find unattractive. Low-e stands for low emissivity.
Does Low-E glass scratch easily?
The coating is actually very difficult to scratch and is harder than the glass. For example, if you scratch the coating with a coin, it is the metal from the coin you see deposited on the glass surface itself rather than a scratch.
Are there different types of Low-E glass?
There are two types of Low-E glass: hard coat and soft coat. As you might imagine, they have different properties. In fact, they actually look different. Hard coat Low-E glass is manufactured by pouring a thin layer of molten tin onto a sheet of glass while the glass is still slightly molten.
Can you use Windex on Low-E windows?
Cleaning Low E Glass Consequently it is recommended that Windex® glass and surface cleaner (clear liquid) is used as this will minimise smearing. Do not use ammonia based glass cleaners or alcohol based cleaners, as these will leave smears on the glass.
What side does Low-E go on?
For single pane windows it is recommended the low-e coating is always placed on the inside facing surface. Low-e coatings are sensitive to weather and pollutants making it difficult to clean without damaging the surface.
Is it worth getting argon filled windows?
It is generally not a good investment to replace windows just for energy-efficiency purposes. Argon, for instance, typically increases the insulating R-value of a window by only half a point. (Insulated-glass windows, also called double-pane glass, typically have an R-value of around 2.0 to 3.0.
