Low-e (low emissivity) glass is a type of insulating glass that is used to control the rate
at which heats enters or exits the premises. Low-e glass is made using a thin metallic coating on the glass that reflects thermal radiation
or inhibits its emission, therefore reducing heat transfer through the glass. Low-e glass reflects the radiation rather than absorbing it,
resulting in a lower U-value. The lower the U-value, the better the
performance. Low-e glass is also made to restrict some of
the solar radiation that is transmitted through glass.
Initially, low-e glass was used in major commercial
applications, however, it is now moving into the residential market. Low-e glass is ideally suited for office
buildings, factories, homes and public venues.
Low-e glass is suitable
for all types of climate conditions with variations in the laminate according
to the needs of the client. Low-e glass
has a very thin coating on the interior glass
surface which cleans differently to ordinary glass. Cleaning can be accomplished by using a number of different glass cleaning products.
There are two
types of low-e glass, hard coat and
soft coat. Hard coat low-e glass is
the more common variety. It is made by coating the glass during the production stages with a thin metallic oxide
layer. It is durable and difficult to scratch. Soft coat low-e glass allows
more visible light in with little visible haze levels.
Low-e glass is an
effective way of energy saving. During the winter the coating on the glass prevents the heat emitted from
heating appliances from escaping. This enables the house to stay warmer for a
longer duration of time for minimal cost. During the summer, low-e glass reduces the amount of heat
transferred through the window by filtering the sun’s short wave radiation.
Energy efficient
glass comes in single double glaze. Double glazing units, (otherwise
known as insulating units) are extensively used in doors and windows for
residential and commercial building and architectural applications. In a double glazed unit, two layers of glass are separated by an air space,
which acts as an insulator against heat gain or heat loss. Double glazing units are designed to provide superior performance,
and have the capability to modify the environment. Double glazing units retain views and natural light while at the
same time providing ample energy and high thermal performance.
Double glazed units can
significantly decrease the cost of energy bills and reduce outside noise
drastically. A variety of styles and colours are available in these units and can be custom made to suit any
customer’s requirements. They are suitable for residential as well as
commercial applications including hotels and offices. Double glazed units provide enhanced security and at the same add
to the beautification of a home or building. Double glazed units also help reduce and prevent condensation in
the glass. Double glazed units do
not need maintenance as they do not fade or warp.
The best
suppliers of low-e and glazed glass will comply with the
Building Codes in Australia to ensure proficiency, as well as adapting
environmentally friendly practices. Manufacturers provide high quality
insulated glass at reasonable
prices.
