Energy-Efficient LOW-E Argon Thermopane Windows (Double Glaze Windows with

Low-E Glass and Argon Gas)

This article explains how combining Low-E coatings with argon gas improves insulation.
Argon gas enhances thermal resistance compared to air-filled panes, while Low-E
coatings reduce heat loss in winter and limit solar heat gain in summer. Together, they
significantly increase energy efficiency, with R-values improving from 2.0 (air-filled) to
3.6 (argon-filled with Low-E).

Link: https://www.garaga.com/information/faq/low-e-argon

An energy-efficient Thermopane window with LOW-E Argon means that during colder
seasons, the window allows the sun’s rays to penetrate into the home, letting in heat
and light. As well, it limits the escape of heat outward. In the warmer summer months,
the windows limit the amount of seasonal heat as well as that produced by various
sources (paved driveway, vehicles, etc.) from entering, while nonetheless allowing the
light in.

LOW-E

LOW-E is a virtually invisible metal oxide coating applied to window’s glass during the
manufacturing process while the glass is still hot. It is this film that interacts with the
rays of the sun.
Argon

A regular Thermopane window has simple air between the two panes. This air has some
insulation properties but they are very weak. Argon is the most commonly used gas in
the manufacture of windows because it is an excellent thermal insulator. It thus reduces
consumption of electricity such as used to heat a room. In addition, Argon is colorless,
odorless, tasteless and non-reactive to other bodies. In fact, this inert gas is used in the
preservation of fruits and vegetables where it is added to bags when packaged to play a
key role in preservation.

Combining LOW-E and Argon

When combined together, LOW-E and Argon gas make a formidable team to combat
both cold and warm weather. Energy-efficient LOW-E Argon Thermopane windows are
thus a product that effectively controls temperature variations.
Is the thermal resistance factor better?
Yes, if you compare it with a double-pane sealed window without LOW-E Argon. You
increase your energy efficiency, especially if you have garage door with many
decorative windows.
The Pros and Cons of Low-E Glass vs Double-Glazed Windows (Double Glaze
Windows with Low-E Glass)

This article provides a comparison of clear double glazing versus Low-E glass in terms of U-
values and solar heat gain coefficients (SHGC). It suggests that Low-E double-glazed windows
are more effective at reducing heat transfer while maintaining adequate light transmission.

Link: https://www.swartland.co.za/comfort-living/

Importance of Windows in Interior Spaces

• Windows provide fresh air, light, and outdoor views.

• However, improper window choices can cause up to 30% energy loss.
• Energy-efficient windows improve comfort, reduce utility costs, and comply with
legal regulations (SANS 10400).
Types of Energy-Efficient Windows

1. Low-E (Low-Emissivity) Glazing - Glass with a thin coating that reduces heat
transfer while allowing light in.

• Pros:
➢ More affordable than double-glazing.
 ➢ Can be used in standard windows to improve energy efficiency.
• Cons:
➢ Scratches easily
➢ Creates a haze effect under sunlight.
➢ Requires special cleaning.
➢ Limited impact on Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC).

2. Double-Glazed Windows - Two glass panes separated by a spacer filled with inert
gas (e.g., Argon) for insulation.

• Pros:
➢ Superior insulation, reducing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.
➢ Improves security.
➢ Reduces noise pollution.
• Cons:
➢ Can be expensive (though Swartland offers affordable options).
➢ If seals fail, condensation may form between panes.
➢ Large double-glazed windows can be heavy and impractical.

Comparing Window Performance: U-Values & SHGC

• U-Value: Measures heat loss; lower values mean better insulation.

Best Performance: Low-E double-glazing (4/12/4) – 1.93 W/m²K.
• SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient): Measures heat admitted through glass;
lower values reduce heat gain.
Best Performance: Low-E double-glazing (4/12/4) – 0.70.

Conclusion: Double-glazing is the best choice due to superior insulation, security, and
noise reduction. With competitive pricing, it offers a better long-term investment than
Low-E glazing. To maximize efficiency, use Low-E double-glazing for optimal thermal
performance.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Low-E Glass (Double Glaze Windows with Low-E
Glass and Argon Gas)

This discussion highlights the insulating power of Low-E glass when combined with
argon gas in insulated glass units (IGUs). Such combinations can achieve U-values as
low as 0.9, making them highly effective for energy conservation.

Link: https://claytonglass.co.uk/news/the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-low-e-glass/

Low E, or Low-Emissivity, glass is a type of glazing glass containing a transparent,

microscopic coating that improves the thermal efficiency of windows. Helps retain heat
indoors in winter and block solar heat in summer.

How Low-E Glass Works?

Energy Loss Through Windows

• 10-50% of a home's energy loss occurs through windows and doors.

• 90% of energy lost through windows escapes via the glass itself.
Understanding Emissivity

• Emissivity measures how much thermal energy a material emits (scale: 0 to 1).
• Lower emissivity = better heat reflection.
• Standard clear glass has an emissivity of 0.9, allowing 90% of heat to pass
through.
• Metals like silver and aluminum have emissivity values below 0.05, making
them excellent heat reflectors.

Types of Low-E Coatings

1. Soft-Coat (most common in the UK):

• Applied in a vacuum chamber at room temperature.
• Sealed within an insulated glass unit (IGU).
• Lower emissivity, better thermal performance.
• Typically made of silver or other low-emissivity metals.
2. Hard-Coat:
• Fused to the glass during production.
• Less efficient than soft-coat in reducing heat loss.
Conclusion
Low-E glass significantly reduces energy loss by reflecting heat, making homes more
energy-efficient and comfortable. Soft-coat Low-E glass, with its silver-based coating,
offers superior insulation and is widely used in energy-saving window solutions.

ADVANTAGES OF LOW E GLASS:

• INSULATING POWER

Low-E glass significantly enhances a window’s insulating power by reflecting more heat
back into a home compared to standard uncoated glass. Its low-emissivity film
reduces heat loss, making it particularly beneficial during harsh winters. Soft-coat Low-
E glass can achieve an emissivity as low as 0.05, and when combined with
technologies like warm-edge spacer bars and argon-gas-filled cavities, it creates
highly efficient insulated glass units (IGUs). Double-glazed Low-E glass units can
reach U-values as low as 0.9, offering excellent thermal performance. In practical terms,
this means a warmer home in winter and fewer thermostat adjustments, keeping indoor
temperatures stable and energy bills lower.

• IMPRESSIVE SOLAR GAIN STATISTICS

Low-E glass is not only effective in winter but also helps maintain cool indoor
temperatures during summer by reflecting solar heat away. Its low-emissivity
coating, when applied to the inner surface of the inner pane within an insulated glass
unit (IGU), reduces solar heat gain while maintaining optical clarity. This positioning
allows Low-E glass to act as a solar control solution, reflecting thermal energy from
the sun much like it reflects indoor heat in winter. When combined with a tint, it becomes
solar glass, capable of achieving a solar heat gain coefficient (g-value) as low as
0.14, meaning it blocks 86% of solar heat. This ensures a cooler, more comfortable
indoor environment, reducing the need for excessive air conditioning. In practical
terms, it means a more pleasant home during hot summer months—and potentially
fewer meltdowns over melting ice creams.

• UV PROTECTION
Low-E glass not only improves insulation and solar control but also blocks nearly
100% of UV radiation, protecting both your family and home interiors. UV rays can
cause fading and discoloration of carpets, furniture, and fittings over time, acting like
a bleaching agent. The Low-E coating works by reflecting specific wavelengths of
radiation, particularly shortwave ultraviolet (UV) rays, while still allowing visible light
to pass through. This advanced filtering mechanism ensures that your home remains
bright and naturally lit without the damaging effects of UV exposure, making Low-E
glass an excellent choice for both comfort and long-term interior preservation.
 • Long-Lasting Performance

Since the soft-coat Low-E layer is sealed within the insulated glass unit (IGU), it is
protected from scratches or damage, ensuring long-term insulation, UV protection,
and solar reflection.

• Compatible with Other Features

Low-E glass can be combined with security enhancements, noise reduction, and
easy-clean technology without affecting its performance.

• Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings

By reducing heat loss, Low-E glass lowers heating bills and performs better than
standard double glazing.

• Eco-Friendly
The reduction in energy consumption lowers your carbon footprint, making your
home more sustainable.
• Reduced Glare

Low-E glass helps minimize glare from bright light sources, improving indoor
comfort compared to standard uncoated glass.

DISADVANTAGES OF LOW E GLASS

• DECREASED NATURAL LIGHT ENTRY

One potential disadvantage of Low-E glass is its reduction in natural light

transmission, which can range from 25% to 85%, depending on the specification.
However, this can also be an advantage, as it minimizes glare and reduces UV and
thermal radiation inside the home. Ultimately, Low-E glass provides flexibility—offering
a softer, more comfortable indoor atmosphere while still allowing the option to open
windows for full natural light.

• IT’S MORE EXPENSIVE

One drawback of Low-E glass is its higher initial cost compared to standard uncoated
glazing. However, its superior thermal insulation can lead to long-term savings on
heating bills, offsetting the upfront expense. In the long run, the investment in Low-E
glass may prove more cost-effective than standard glass due to its energy efficiency.
Pilkington Low-E Glazing (Double Glaze Windows with Low-E Glass)

Link: https://www.pilkington.com/en/pl/o-firmie-unpublished/types-of-glass/energy-
efficient-glass/low-emissivity-glass#

By placing low-e glass into a double-glazed unit, the individual glass pane temperatures
change. As more heat is retained, the outer pane of glass is not heated as much by
escaping energy and the inner pane is keeping more heat in and becomes warmer. This
has two effects. There are fewer cold draughts from convection near the windows and
the risk of condensation on the glass is reduced. In this way, low-e glazing not only
prevents heat loss, but also encourages warmth during the colder months of the year.

Low-E Glass vs Double-Glazed Glass: Which Is Better?

This article explains how Low-E glass, with its microscopic metallic oxide coating,
reflects heat and reduces energy bills by up to 30%. It is particularly effective in sunny
climates for controlling solar heat gain and protecting interiors from UV damage. While
Low-E glass focuses on reflecting heat, it can also improve indoor comfort by reducing
drafts and eliminating "cold glass" sensations.

Link: https://www.panda-windows.com/blog/low-e-glass-vs-double-glazed-glass-which-
is-better
Advantages of Low-E Glass

• It slashes energy costs because your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as
hard.
• It protects your furniture and curtains from fading due to UV rays.
• It improves the comfort of your home by eliminating “cold glass” and reducing
drafts.

Disadvantages of Low-E Glass

• It can be more expensive than regular glass upfront.

• In some climates, it might block too much solar heat, leading to higher heating
costs.
• Its performance can vary depending on the direction your windows face.

What is Double-Glazed Glass?

Two sheets of glass with a space in between – that’s double-glazing. It’s exactly the
same principle behind having two layers of clothing; it keeps you warm by trapping air in
the middle.
Double-glazed glass consists of two panes of glass separated by a spacer and sealed
together. This space is often filled with inert gas, like argon, to further improve
insulation.

Advantages of Double-Glazed Glass

• It offers superior insulation compared to single-pane windows.

• It’s great for noise reduction, making it ideal for homes in busy areas.
• It reduces the amount of condensation that forms on your windows.

Disadvantages of Double-Glazed Glass

Despite its benefits, double-glazed glass isn’t perfect:

• It can be costlier than single-pane windows, both in terms of materials and

installation.
• Improper installation can lead to issues like fogging between the panes.
• It’s heavier, which might require adjustments to your window frames.