Guide to Glass Selection

If you're looking for windows for your home you not only want to choose a style that matches the style of your home but it is now neccessary that any windows you have installed meet the requirements for replacement windows. The government regulations are in place to try and reduce emmissions of heat from your homes windows, not only helping towards the efforts of reducing global warming but also potentially saving you money on heating bill's.

There are many different types of glazing available for windows, and you can even combine different glazing techniques. First, you can improve the energy efficiency of your home by using insulated glazing windows. With insulating glazing such as double glazing the gap between the sheets of glass is filled with inert gas and a strip full of silicone balls.

Maybe you would rather choose tinted glass. Glass that is tinted tends to absorb a large amount of solar radiation that comes through the window. This reduces the solar heat gain and glare. If you tint your windows in gray or bronze, then you can reduce the penetration of both light and heat equally.

You may prefer to select triple or double glazed windows. These are also known as storm windows. These are windows that have two or more panes of glass and they are hermetically sealed to form a single-glazed unit. There is an air space between each pane of glass. Some window manufacturers use spacers that separate the two panes of glass. These conduct heat less than others and can even lower a window's U-factor.

Reflective Windows If you get reflective coatings on your window, then you can reduce the penetration of solar radiation and block more light than heat. This greatly reduces the visible transmittance and glare. It also reduces the window's solar heat gain coefficient. A reflective coating is usually made of up thin, metallic layers and can come in a variety of colors. These are normally used in hot climates. Unfortunately, you will need to use for electrical lighting and this can offset any energy savings you may get from the reflective coatings.

Lastly, there are many different specialty coatings that you can select for your windows. It is up to you what you choose. It is largely based on how much you are willing to spend on your windows. Consult with a glazier and find out what your options are and what will meet your needs best.