Choosing new windows is more than just finding the right material and window style. Those are important, but perhaps more important are the glazing options you choose. These largely contribute to the safety and efficiency of your Mesa, AZ replacement windows. Do you know your glazing options? Here are a few of the options you should know:

Number of Window Panes

The first thing to consider is the number of window panes to add to your window. Two is the general standard for insulated glazing units (IGUs). These provide an adequate barrier in most climates and help insulate heat gains and losses. That said, now homeowners can get two, three, or four panes of glass on replacement windows. That said, the energy savings on these extra layers of glass are not always worth the added cost.

Different Inert Gas Fills

It isn’t just normal air between the panes of glass. Air retains moisture and expands and contracts due to temperature fluctuations. This damages the seals on IGUs. Instead, they use noble glasses. They are colorless, odorless, and non-toxic. But they have more density than air and do not react. This helps reduce heat transfer and prolongs the life of replacement windows. Three common gasses used in IGUs are argon, krypton, and xenon.

Safety Glass

Laminated, or safety glass is another feature of modern replacement windows. As with car windows, this coated glass does not shatter into large dangerous shards when it breaks. Instead, it breaks into smaller, less dangerous pieces. And if you choose window glass with an interlayer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) it makes windows impact resistant so the glass remains largely intact. Both improve the security and safety of your home.

Window Tints

Window tints come in a range of colors and applications to prevent certain wavelengths from entering the home. They are usually green, blue, grey, or bronze in color. Some can absorb as much as 45% of solar radiation and reduce visible light transmittance. These are great options for windows on south or west-facing windows where you want to prevent heat gains and cut down on glare.

Reflective Coatings

In hot climates like this one, some manufacturers apply different coatings to the exterior surfaces of windows that bounce sunlight away. This also keeps unwanted heat out of the home. You can usually see which windows have these coatings because they look bronze, silver, or gold. The problem is these reflect both heat and visible light, which can make a home feel dark.

Low-E Glass

This special glazing technology reduces solar heat gains but also allows more natural light to filter into the home. Basically manufactures apply an ultra-thin metallic oxide coating on the insides of the window panes. You can’t see them, but they do a great job at keeping out unwanted heat.

To learn more about glazing technology on Mesa, AZ replacement windows contact Freelite Inc. Our experts can walk you through some of the best products for the area and help you find the right solutions for your home and budget. For a consultation call (602) 233-1981 or visit our showroom located at 331 W. McDowell Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85003.