Those building a home or remodeling one take a close look at windows. Homeowners have to decide how many panes go in the windows, whether they want wood or vinyl replacement windows in Cabot AR and if they want reflective film on their windows. With all these things swirling around their minds, it’s no wonder homeowners are confused. Please allow us to explain windows and how they affect energy efficiency.
What Is Low-E?
Low-e stands for low emissivity. To emit means to give off or discharge something. In the case of windows, when the sun shines through them, ultraviolet and infrared rays shine through. Heat does as well. Your rooms will resemble a sauna.
Windows with low-e coatings don’t let the heat or harmful rays through, just the light. The coatings are thinner than a strand of hair. You’ll usually find at least two coats of low-e coatings on new windows. The coatings reflect the light back outside, so your rooms will remain cool but still have natural light.
What About Energy Efficiency?
Efficient means to do something in a competent, organized manner. Experts agree that about 70 percent of heat loss goes out windows and doors. This means the HVAC unit works harder to keep the house warm in winter and cool in summer. That sends the power bill through the roof.
If low-e coatings reflect the heat back outside in summer, it does the opposite during winter. The heat is reflected back inside the house. The HVAC unit won’t work harder, so the power bill will be lower.
Low-e glass coatings on vinyl replacement windows in Cabot AR provide a bonus to homeowners in lower or lack of condensation. When heat meets cold, moisture forms on windows. If it’s not removed, mold and mildew form. This is detrimental to the health of the family, especially those with COPD, asthma, and allergies.
