Replacement Window Glass

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Replacement Window Glass

Selecting the correct replacement window glass or glass package for your home depends on a number of factors. The most important issue is the climate you live in. We will go over lots of the terms that come into play when replacement window glass packages are discussed. For most consumers, the best thing they can do is find a really good window company/installer/contractor who can recommend the best glass options for your area and budget. However, knowing the basics is always a good thing.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient

For hot locations such as in the South East or South West, you will want a low solar gain heat coefficient or SGHC to reduce how much heat enters through the glass. The one place you may not want a low SGHC in these climates is on a window that rarely or never gets sun and you want more heat to enter this room.

For colder climates, you would want a higher SGHC to increase how much heat enters through the glass. There is a trade off here because some place are hot in the summer, cold in the winter. A reputable contractor should have a good idea what is standard for your area.

Low-e Glass

Most new construction and replacement windows come standard with a low-e glass. All low-e glass products have some tint to them, which cuts down on the light and heat that enters through the window. How much tint is ideal for your windows will usually be a factor of climate (and is integrally tied to the SHGC number). However, most manufacturers offer numerous grades of the low-e glass on their different glass packages, which can be confusing. Here are some of the most popular replacement and new window glass options.

LoE 366

This is a brand of low-e glass (made by Cardinal Glass) that has a triple silver coating that allows for a low solar heat gain. This comes standard on most Champion windows.

LoE-240

This is a dual silver coating that is tinted to cut down on glare.

LoE-270

This is a brand of low-e glass (made by Cardinal Glass). Milgard's SunCoat uses the LoE-270.

Solarban 60

This is a brand of low-e glass (made by PPG) that has a dual silver coating which allows for a moderate solar heat gain.

ProSolar

This is also a brand of low-e glass (again, made by PPG).