Low-e (or low
emissivity) is a type of insulating glass with a transparent metal coating on
one side. This coating helps to control the rate at which heat transfers
through the glass. It does this by inhibiting the emission of radiation to keep
your home or office warm in winter and cool in summer. The metallic coating
helps to keep long wave radiation inside the building. During winter, the low-e
coating prevents the heat emitted at night from heaters or wood stoves, etc.
from leaving the building. While during summer, it reduces the amount of heat
transferred through the window by filtering the sun’s short wave radiation.
Low-e glass and
is an effective energy saving solution – complying with the Australian Building
Codes’ provisions for energy efficiency. The coating can also reduce the damage UV rays
can cause to furniture and interiors by reducing the amount of heat conducted
through the glass.
Whilst low-e
glass was mostly limited to commercial applications in the past, it is becoming
more and more common for residential purposes. It can be applied in various
ways including laminated glass, single glazed or double glazed windows and
either hard or soft coat. For improved performance on doors and windows low-e
glass can be used in a combination of laminated and toned glass.
Double glazed units, also known as insulating glass units, are extensively used in doors and
windows for both residential and commercial building and architectural
applications. In this type of unit two panels of glass are parted by an air
space which acts as an insulator against heat gain or heat loss. One important
benefit is that they need no maintenance including no fading, painting or
warping. These units can be combined with low-e glass to achieve better results
and heat reduction.
Double glazed
units save highly on energy bills and reduce outside noise drastically. While double
glazed units incur higher initial cost than single glazed windows in the long
run they allow higher savings on energy bills. They are designed to provide
superior performance and modify to suit the environment. Double glazing units
retain views and natural light and at the same time provide better energy efficiency
and thermal performance compared to single glazed units.
A variety of
styles and colours are available in these units and they can also be custom
made to suit customer’s requirements. They are suitable for residential as well
as commercial applications including hotels and offices. Double glazed units provide
far better security and strength as compared to single gazing units. In areas
prone to extreme weather conditions such as cyclones, double-glazed window
panels can be toughened in order to make the windows much stronger and
increasing safety during these life-threatening weather events.
For more information on glasses, please
visit http://www.flatglass.com.au/
