Window Glasing: Best Types Of Energy Efficiency Coatings

Choosing the right window treatment is challenging, especially when aspects of energy efficiency are considered. If you are thinking about upgrading your windows, you will find a wide range of somewhat overwhelming options. There are different types of glasing techniques used to ensure that the best performance is delivered by the purchased products. These methods include gas fillings, use of multiple panes for insulation and application of protective coatings. Though all these treatments are effective, the coatings have notable benefits, such as affordability and flexibility after installation.  Here are the main types of glasing coatings in the current market.

Low-emissivity

Glass panes with low emissivity coatings limit the transfer of heat through insulated window treatments. This low-e layer is typically very thin, essentially invisible to the eye and it consists of a metallic oxide or metal coating. The coating is usually applied on the window panels during the initial manufacturing process. However, you can purchase separate low-e films to improve the performance of your already installed glasing. There are different coatings designed to suit the preference and requirements, depending on factors such as climate, building configuration and the window orientation. The types are classified as high, moderate and low with regard to solar and non-solar energy gain. The low-e films are ideal because they can last for up to fifteen years before degradation and can be replaced through DIY application of fresh coatings.

Reflective Treatment

This type of window glasing is ideal for use in very hot regions where control of solar radiation is imperative. The reflective coatings typically consist of a metallic layer, which means that the treatment is more effective in blocking more light than heat. In this way, reflective glasing reduces the glare in the building and limits the transmittance of visible light. Unfortunately, you may require additional lighting if you choose to install these types of windows. This increased energy demand is likely to off-set the lower requirements for cooling. You should consider this type of glasing as a reserved option for special applications.

Spectrally Selective Glasing

The use of spectrally selective coating offers advantages of reduced heat gain without compromising the availability of visible light. This is a type of low-e layer that functions by filtering out some of the wavelengths in the solar spectrum. The infrared heat portions are reflected by the selective coating, but it remains essentially transparent to the visible light wavelength. There are also advanced and customised glasing systems which can manipulate the total heat gain or loss depending on preference and climatic conditions.

For more information, contact a local glazier.