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Low-e windows

Discussion in 'Homeowners Corner' started by harrisek, May 8, 2012.

  1. harrisek

    harrisek A work in progress

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    Are low-e windows worth the extra cost?
     
  2. rkitek

    rkitek Member

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    there are variou treatments for low-e winddows. some use a film layer on the inside surface of the glass and others are on a film sandwiched between layers of glass or suspended between glass. Each has a different cost and can provide varying levels of UV pretection as well as energy efficiency by reducing heat gain. Depending on the number of windows you have and the areas you are putting them in, or replacing them in, all affect the outcome. A large area with lots of glass it may make sense to use low e glass. if you are replacingh a single window with no plans of replacing more, it would not make sense. likewise, an older home with little insulation could benefit from a better window but will still have other losses due tro air leakage and other infiltration. In this case paying a little more for low e on the inside face of glass might makke sense but addding the suspended film which is a liuttle more expensive does not. it all comes down to a return on investment and the impact the windows will have.
     
  3. harrisek

    harrisek A work in progress

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    Thank you for your response, it's very helpful. All of my windows are builder grade. All but one or two are no longer sealed, with visible condensation and dirt between the panes. So the plan is to replace them all.
     
  4. Villager

    Villager Ashburn Village Resident

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    I haven't had windows replaced yet but received good information about doing so from Scott at Firehouse Windows and Siding.

    http://firehousewindows.com/
     
  5. harrisek

    harrisek A work in progress

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    I had never heard of low-e windows until recently. How common are they?
     
  6. vacliff

    vacliff "You shouldn't say that."

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    I had new low e windows installed a year and a half ago when the tax incentive was still there.
    It has made a huge difference, particularly in air leakage and noise reduction.
     
    AJB007 likes this.
  7. Villager

    Villager Ashburn Village Resident

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    I think the low e part is supposed to help with things (floors, furniture, pictures) fading from direct exposure as well.
     

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