What's the difference between Low-E and regular glass?

Low-E glass has a microscopically thin metallic coating that reflects heat while allowing light to pass through, making it significantly more energy efficient than regular glass.

Regular glass allows heat to transfer freely in both directions - your heated indoor air escapes in winter, and hot outdoor air enters in summer. This means your heating and cooling systems work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures. Standard glass also allows harmful UV rays to pass through, which can fade your furniture, carpets, and artwork over time.

Low-E (low-emissivity) glass features an ultra-thin metallic coating - typically silver or tin oxide - that's virtually invisible to the naked eye. This coating acts like a one-way mirror for heat energy. In winter, it reflects your indoor heat back into your home instead of letting it escape through the glass. In summer, it reflects the sun's heat away from your windows, keeping your home cooler.

In Ottawa's Climate Zone 6, Low-E glass is essential for energy efficiency. The coating can reduce heat loss through windows by 30-50% compared to regular glass. You'll see this reflected in lower heating bills during our long winters and reduced cooling costs in summer. Most quality replacement windows now include Low-E coating as standard, and it's required for ENERGY STAR certification in our climate zone.

There are different types of Low-E coatings - "hard coat" and "soft coat" - with soft coat being more effective but requiring protection between glass panes in double or triple-pane units. When combined with argon gas fill and proper installation, Low-E glass helps your windows achieve the U-factor of 1.22 or lower needed for Canada's Greener Homes Grant eligibility.

For a free estimate on energy-efficient Low-E windows for your Ottawa home, request a quote from Ottawa Window Pros.

---

Find a Window Installation Contractor

Ottawa Window Install connects you with experienced contractors through the https://justynrookcontracting.com:

• weather stripping pros ✓
• L.L. Renovation ✓
• SM Windows & Doors ✓