Benefits of Low E & Argon Gas

Windows allow solar energy to enter a building providing light and heat. Almost all the sun's energy passes through the clear glass and strikes objects in the room where it is absorbed by furnishings, flooring and the building itself. It is then re-radiated and given off as heat. However, as heat flows to areas of low temperature, up to two-thirds of this heat is lost during the heating season, through the window glass.

Low E & Argon Gas counters this heat transfer with a micro thin metallic low emittance (Low E) coating, only a few atoms thick, on the outside surface of the inner pane. It manages this heat by keeping up to 90% within the room. This translates to energy cost savings and lower heating bills… but it is also effective during the summer too! It keeps the outdoor re-radiated heat from transferring to the cooler indoors.

As glass allows visible light to enter it also allows ultraviolet (UV) radiation in. This causes fading of carpeting, drapes and upholstery. Low E & Argon Gas selectively blocks two-thirds of harmful UV rays that cause damage and helps extend the colour and lifetime of valuable furnishings, while transmitting only 6% less visible light than ordinary double-glazing.

Argon gas replaces air between the two panes of glass… why? Because it has an insulation value more than 30% greater than air, and it resists convection. As conduction and convection account for one-third of most heat loss through sealed glazing units, argon is a natural improvement over a conventional air space.

The overall result is warmer interior glass surfaces of 5-6 degrees, with greater resistance to condensation. Warmer interior glass surfaces mean convected downdraughts are reduced. This reduction makes sitting areas near windows or patio doors much more comfortable, allowing you greater use of all your floor space. 

For further information regarding Low "E", contact an Aluminum Associates sales representative at 453-6400 or visit our 1801 Trafalgar St. showroom.