Replacement Windows: Which Glass Is Right For You?

You've made the choice to replace the windows in your house. However, the choice of which windows to choose goes beyond style and even amount of panes. These days, it's all about energy efficiency. If you're dedicated to reducing your utility costs—Better Homes and Gardens reports energy costs can go down as much as 15 percent with the right windows – you'll want energy efficient windows. Choose the energy efficiency option that best conforms with your house's needs.

Multiple Panes

Double and even triple hung windows have been on the market for a long time. Manufacturers create these windows by spacing two or three panes of glass and hermetically sealing them. Hanging more than one pane of glass creates a layer of insulating air between the panes. These windows are appropriate for walls in windy areas, especially if they're north-facing.

Gas Fill

The next step after double or triple hanging the panes is adding a gas fill. Manufacturers fill the space between panes with inert gas, usually either argon or krypton. These gases present a higher resistance to heat flow than air alone. If cold is a major factor in your home, gas-filled panes can help reduce heating costs.

Heat Absorbing Tint

On the other side of the spectrum, too much heat can be an issue. If that's the case, windows with heat absorbing tint are a good investment. The tint absorbs a large part of the incoming solar radiation, which keeps the interior cool. However, these tints reflect only a small amount of light, so they don't create a mirror-like appearance. Tints come in gray, bronze, blue, green and black.

Low E4 Glass

Low E4 glass is manufactured with glazing that helps control solar heat gain and loss. Sometimes this glazing is tinted, which also reduces visible light. This is necessary if you have south-facing windows. Indeed, some manufacturers go one step further with a microscopic layer of silver that controls even more light and UV rays. These types of windows help protect wooden flooring and furniture.

Spectrally Selective Glaze

One step beyond even Low E4 glass is that coated with a spectrally selective glaze. These glazes have been designed to reflect specific wavelengths while remaining transparent to others. This means they admit more transparent light while reflecting the infrared rays of the solar spectrum. Glass treated this way is the most efficient in keeping spaces cool in hot climates. 

Consider the placement of your home's windows and the effect the sun has on the interior of each room. Let this information drive your selection of replacement windows for your house, and talk with professionals like Custom Glass Mirror Image LLC to make the best choice for your house.