Low-e vs solar gain vs window treatments
stimyg
16 years ago
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stimyg
16 years agolast modified: 9 years agoRelated Discussions
Low-E vs Storms on Gothic Window
Comments (2)Just a few thoughts... R value is not the best measurement of a window's energy performance. U value is a much more accurate measure, but unfortunately most window sales folks still use R value in their presentations because most people have been conditioned to think in R value. LowE is a metallic coating that is applied to one (or more) lites of an IGU (Insulating Glass Unit) or thermo-pane window. Not all IGU's use LowE coating and not all IGU's use an aluminum (metal) spacer. The top-of-the-line IGU's manufactured today use what is called WET or Warm Edge Technology spacer. There are several different WET spacers in use today, including a couple that are stainless steel based. LowE coatings substantially increase the energy efficiency of a window. LowE coatings are required by energy code in many parts of the country for new construction. Having storm windows is better than not having storm windows, but the energy performance of a single pane window with a storm window is not comparable to a modern IGU-equipped window with LowE and argon fill. There really is no comparison in energy performance numbers or actual field measurements. John, you have classic old windows that might be worth saving for the asthetic value, but you will lose something in energy performance if you do so. I really like older windows, personally, and if the original windows are in good enough shape to save, I would attempt to save them...but that would be a trade off in performance versus new windows. If you can afford it, you can get newer windows that look every bit as good as the originals with much better energy perfomance. Something over 70% of all LowE coated residential glass in North America is manufactured by Cardinal Glass which happens to be headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. They also happen to have an R&D lab in Minneapolis, which is a local phone call for you I assume...Cardinal supplies most of the major window companies in North America with LowE glass and also many of the big window companies with IGU's as well....See MoreLowE2 vs LowE3 Recommendation
Comments (1)I would opt for the higher VLT if in your area. Michael...See MoreLowE2 vs 3 indirect light
Comments (1)Depending on where the home is, the lower in the horizon passive solar may be of some benefit. SHGC is what you focus on in the summer and U-Factor is more appropriate measure for the wintertime savings. Where is the home located? What are the SHGCs on the comparable units and this wouldn't be the first time a salesperson was incorrect. I know that last part is shocking.......See MoreLOW E4 vs LOW E 3
Comments (3)Are both these glass packs frome Andersen ? To recomend one would want to know the U values and soar heat gain numbers of these windows and would want your location. Might also want to know your elevatins....See Moreguy_exterior_man
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