When you are in the market for replacement windows, you have a number of options. One that many people overlook is an innovation called Low-E glass. Low-E is short for "low emissivity," which means it transfers less radiant heat than traditional glass does. The information below will help you understand what these types of windows are and how they can benefit you.

An Introduction to Low-E Glass

What Is It?

Low-E glass contains one or more different types of coatings that increase reflectivity and minimize heat transfer. In other words, this glass increases the R-value (or insulation ability) of your windows.

During winter, it reflects heat back into your home and prevents it from escaping outside. During summer, it keeps UV rays and heat from sunlight from entering your home.

How Does It Work?

Low-E coatings are designed to reflect most radiation from outside the visible spectrum while allowing in light. Reflected radiation includes ultraviolet light, which causes furniture and carpeting to fade, and infrared light, which causes the heat you feel when sunlight hits your skin.

Thus, the room seems just as brightly lit, but it doesn't receive the harmful, wide spectrum radiation.

How Does It Benefit Homeowners?

By choosing replacement windows with panes of Low-E glass, you reduce household heat loss. In turn, you save money on utility bills year-round. You also reduce your household carbon footprint and benefit the environment.

Moreover, your HVAC system does not have to work as hard to keep your home a comfortable temperature, so it's less likely to break down and more likely to have a long, useful lifespan. Meanwhile, you enjoy comfortable indoor temperatures with fewer hot and cold spots, and your carpeting, drapes, and upholstery don't fade after long-term exposure to sunlight.

If you're considering Low-E glass for your replacement windows, contact Tri-State Window Factory in Deer Park, NY, to learn more. They have served Long Island for more than 45 years. In addition to window installation, they also specialize in roofing, siding, entry doors, and sliders. Visit their website to browse their services or call (631) 667-8600 to request a quote for affordable replacement windows.