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Is Low-e Window Glass Really OK?

16 years ago

I need to replace the glass on a 6 x 5 foot picture window and the repair guy strongly recommended going with low-e.

He explained the advantages and it sounds like most people like them and have no complaints.

I'm not concerned about the additional cost but I am concerned about having to live with a hazy or tinted view. I love my picture window and I don't want it to be compromised at all.

Is my concern unwarranted? Thanks in advance.

Featured Answer

tryinbrian

16 years ago

For what it's worth, my theory is to use low-e on all EXCEPT the southern exposure. I like the heat from that low winter sun beaming through the south-facing windows, and I think low-e windows interferes with this. In the summertime, however, I appreciate having the low-e glass on the east and west to keep that hot sun from heating up the house so much. (In Ohio, the summer sun doesn't come in the south windows very much - it's too high in the sky).

I do notice the visual difference from the regular to the low-e (sort of like looking through slightly tinted windows), but I guess if you save energy it's worth the trade-off.

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Comments (7)

steve_o
16 years ago
I have low-e film on my southern-facing windows and can notice only the smallest difference in tint between the windows with film and the ones without. There is a slightly greater difference in reflectivity when the windows are seen from outside, but it's nothing striking or ugly. The view is just as sharp out the low-e windows as they are out the untreated windows. Go for it!
Michael
16 years ago
jim,

Find out what the VLT (Visible Light Transmittance)is on the glass he is considering. They can vary greatly, depending on the glass and Low E coatings. Find the highest VLT and buy it.

steve,

I have a question. Why did you chose the southern exposure for low e and not the entire house? Low E works on all sides of the house.

Michael
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Jim96
Original Author
16 years ago
Thanks to both of you for your input.

Sounds like the low-e is the way to go.
steve_o
16 years ago
Why did you chose the southern exposure for low e and not the entire house?

Almost purely budget at the time, coupled with the fact that I didn't want to chose window treatments for those windows right away; this way I'm protecting what's inside those rooms and I can get window coverings when I find what I want; the other windows will receive the film probably next year.
Happyladi
16 years ago
I live in Texas and have been pricing windows. I am told that low E glass is required for all new windows in Texas now.
J B
3 years ago
I just had low e windows put into my whole. house not knowing they would have a gray tint to them. It is the most depressing choice I've ever made in life given the brightness before and after in my house. Please consider this if you are trying to do something along these lines. if you like natural light, don't do it. The cost savings doesn't matter to me, as I would rather have natural bright light in my house.

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