Low-E Insulating Glass

Low Emissivity Glass

About Low Emissivity Glass

In the hot Arizona climate the preferred choice of glass for windows and doors is Low-E Insulating Glass. Low-E (low-emissivity) is a term used for a surface that radiates, or emits, low levels of radiant energy.  Low-E glass is manufactured by applying specific metallic coatings (silver, zinc or tin) to the surface of glass to reflect heat.  There are two types of Low-E glass: hard coat and soft coat.

Hard Coat Low-E Glass

Hard coat Low-E glass is manufactured by pouring a thin layer of molten tin onto a sheet of glass while the glass is still slightly molten. The tin actually becomes "welded" to the glass. This process makes it difficult or "hard" to scratch or remove the tin. Often this glass has a blueish tint to it.

Soft Coat Low-E Glass

Soft coat Low-E glass, on the other hand, involves the application of silver, zinc or tin to glass in a vacuum. The glass enters a vacuum chamber filled with an inert gas which is electrically charged. The electricity combined with the vacuum allows molecules of metal to sputter onto the glass. The coating is more delicate or "soft".
 
Low-E Insulating Glass

When either type is added to the inner surface of a dual pane or insulated glass unit, it's referred to as a Low-E Insulated unit. The two types of Low-E glass have different performance characteristics. The soft coat process has the ability to reflect more heat back to the source. It typically has a higher R value. R values are a measure of resistance to heat loss. The higher the R value of a material, the better its insulating qualities. Below is a comparison of R values with the different types of glass configurations:

Type of Glass R Value
Clear Insulated Glass 7/8" overall thickness 2.08
Hard Coat Low-E insulated glass 2.45
Hard Coat Low-E insulated glass with argon 2.75
Soft Coat Low-E insulated Glass 3.50
Soft Coat Low-E insulated glass with argon 4.35

Utilizing a Soft Coat Low-E insulated unit with argon instead of a standard Clear Glass 7/8" overall thickness unit would give you more than twice the insulating benefit. Twice the insulating benefit means less energy consumption and greater cost savings for you. An added benefit is more uniform interior temperatures and overall comfort.

Why Choose Best Glass

Best Glass is your Low-E insulating glass provider. Serving the greater Phoenix area since 1991, Best Glass has maintained an A+ rating with the Greater Phoenix Better Business Bureau. Homeowners, business owners and contractors alike have relied on Best Glass to repair, replace and install new Low-E insulating glass in homes, businesses and commercial buildings of all types.

How to Contact Us

To speak with one of our experts today, call 602-437-2378 or contact us online.
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Celebrating 30 Years!

Best Glass is giving back with a donation of $30,000.00 to St. Mary's Food Bank in a matching funds food drive.

Please help us help others who are suffering during this difficult time. Every dollar you donate provides enough food for 7 meals and because Best Glass is matching that dollar it will provide 14 meals. 

 
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