When shopping for replacement windows, there are many customizations and decisions that need to be made. Each customization and decision will have a direct effect on the durability, energy efficiency and cost of your new windows. Shopping for replacement windows can feel overwhelming – especially because most window replacement companies are not transparent when it comes to features and more importantly, price.
At Thermal King Windows, we take great pride in doing things differently. We have served the Lee’s Summit and Kansas City area for over 20 years. We want you to feel confident in your window replacement, which is why we have resources answering all your questions! In this article, we will explore the basics of glass coatings, the importance of these coatings for your home, the different types available, and how they can affect various aspects of your living environment.
Understanding Glass Coatings
Glass coatings are thin layers of film (basically microscopic!) that are applied to the window surface to alter its properties and improve its performance. These coatings are designed to address specific concerns such as energy efficiency, privacy, security, UV protection, and aesthetics. By applying these coatings, homeowners can enhance the functionality and comfort of their homes.
Popular types of glass coatings include:
- Low-E Coatings
- Glare Control Coatings
- Privacy Coatings
- Insulating Coatings
- Safety & Security Coatings
- Decorative Coatings
The Basics of Glass Coatings
The primary purpose of glass coatings is to control the amount of heat and light that passes through the window. These coatings can either reflect or absorb specific wavelengths of light, thereby mitigating the effects of solar radiation. Additionally, some coatings are designed to reduce glare and provide additional durability and strength to the glass surface.
Why Get Glass Coatings for Your Home
Glass coatings offer numerous benefits for homeowners. First and foremost, they contribute to energy efficiency by minimizing heat transfer and reducing the stress on heating and cooling systems. This results in higher energy savings from your replacement windows.
Glass coatings also play a significant role in enhancing the overall comfort and livability of your home by reducing the impact of external factors such as noise and UV radiation. The security and privacy enhancements provided by certain types of glass coatings cannot be overlooked. These coatings can make it more challenging for potential intruders to see inside your home, thus adding an extra layer of protection for your family and belongings.
Additionally, by reducing glare and controlling light transmission, glass coatings create a more comfortable living environment, allowing you to enjoy natural light without compromising on visibility or privacy.
The Different Types of Glass Coatings
Glass coatings play a crucial role in enhancing the performance and functionality of windows. Let’s discuss the types of glass coatings more in depth:
Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Coatings
Low-E stands for Low-emissivity. Low-E coatings are designed to block damaging UV and infrared rays from entering your home. This minimizes heat transfer between the interior and exterior of your home or business. Low-E coatings achieve this by reflecting a significant portion of the solar spectrum, while still allowing visible light to enter. By reducing heat gain during summer and heat loss during winter, Low-E coatings help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature throughout the year.
Glare Control Coatings
Glare Control or Reflective coatings are highly effective at blocking solar heat and reducing glare. This helps to improve the energy efficiency of your windows. These coatings are created by depositing a metallic layer onto the glass surface. The metallic layer reflects a significant amount of incoming solar radiation, preventing it from entering your home. Glare control coatings are commonly used in areas with intense sunlight or where privacy is a concern.
Privacy or Tinted Coatings
Tinted coatings, often known as privacy coatings, contribute to your home’s energy efficiency and privacy. These coatings are typically available in various shades, offering homeowners the flexibility to tailor the level of light transmission and heat reduction according to their preferences. Tinted coatings also provide added privacy by limiting visibility from outside your home.
The color you choose for your tint will have a unique impact on your window. For example, a green tint will decrease visible light transmission and increase shade indoors. While a gray tint will block more UV rays and also lessen solar heat and glare, a golden tint will do the opposite. Make sure you discuss your window needs when talking with your window contractor about tints and privacy coatings. Your expert window contractor will be better able to choose the best solution for your home if the project goals are well defined.
Insulated Coatings
Insulated coatings improve the thermal performance of windows by incorporating a layer of insulation between the glass panes. This layer helps to reduce heat transfer through the window, resulting in improved energy efficiency and greater comfort. If you want highly efficient and insulated windows, make sure to ask your window contractor about triple pane glass!
Decorative Coatings
For a fraction of the cost, decorative films can mimic the appearance of luxury decorative glass. The appearance of textured, frosted, or stained glass can be created with this kind of coating. It’s important to remember that this kind of coating won’t last as long as real ornamental glass and doesn’t offer any additional insulation or protection.
Security Coatings
Security coatings are specifically formulated to provide an additional layer of protection against forced entry. These coatings make the glass more resistant to impact and reduce the likelihood of break-ins. Security coatings are commonly used in high-security environments or for homeowners seeking an extra level of safety. These coatings are also beneficial if you live in a neighborhood with children, as the coatings make the glass less likely to shatter when hit with a stray ball.
When choosing the right glass coating for your windows, it is essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize energy efficiency, privacy, or safety, there is a glass coating available to meet your unique home and needs! We recommend consulting with a professional window replacement contractor to determine the best option for your home.
Expert Window Replacement in Lee’s Summit and the Kansas City Area
Glass coatings have many positive impacts on your window replacement windows, but of course will generally increase the cost of your windows. Glass coatings can help improve the energy efficiency, aesthetics plus give you peace of mind with added privacy and security benefits.
Shopping for replacement windows can be a stressful process. There are many decisions to make about the frame and glass of your replacement windows that greatly impact their functionality.
At Thermal King Windows, we take the stress out of your window replacement! With over 35 years of experience and over 10,000 projects completed, we are your Kansas City window experts. If you’re ready to replace the windows in your home, contact us today for a free estimate and consultation.
