How to Choose the Right Low-E Glass? The Impact of Different Types on Building Energy Efficiency
TIME: 2025-04-30 READ: 13 AUTHOR:
As a leading architectural glass manufacturer, we understand the critical role that Low-E glass plays in improving building energy efficiency. Choosing the right Low-E glass can significantly enhance a building’s performance by reducing heat loss, improving insulation, and optimizing solar control. However, the choice between hard coat (pyrolytic) Low-E glass and soft coat Low-E glass can be challenging. Understanding their differences will help ensure the best fit for your project’s needs.
What is Low-E Glass?
Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is designed to minimize the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light that passes through glass without compromising visible light transmission. This helps reduce energy costs by improving thermal insulation and controlling solar heat gain.
Hard Coat vs. Soft Coat Low-E Glass: Key Differences
1. Hard Coat (Pyrolytic) Low-E Glass
Manufacturing Process: A thin Low-E coating is applied to the glass surface at high temperatures during production, making it highly durable.
Performance: Hard coat Low-E glass offers better durability and can be used in single-pane and double-pane applications.
Energy Efficiency: While it provides moderate insulation, it generally has a higher solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), meaning more heat enters the building.
Best Applications: Ideal for cold climates, where capturing solar heat can help with heating costs.
2. Soft Coat Low-E Glass
Manufacturing Process: This type of Low-E glass is produced by applying the coating in a vacuum-sealed environment after the glass has been formed. The result is a more energy-efficient glass but with a delicate coating that requires careful handling.
Performance: Soft coat Low-E glass has superior insulation performance and lower U-values, making it better at preventing heat transfer.
Energy Efficiency: It offers better solar control, reducing cooling costs by minimizing unwanted heat gain.
Best Applications: Suitable for hot or mixed climates, where limiting solar heat gain improves indoor comfort and reduces energy costs.
Choosing the Right Low-E Glass for Your Project
When selecting between hard coat and soft coat Low-E glass, consider the following factors:
Climate Conditions: If the goal is to retain heat (cold climates), hard coat may be preferable. For cooling efficiency (hot climates), soft coat is a better option.
Glazing Type: Soft coat Low-E glass is more commonly used in double- or triple-pane insulated glass units (IGUs) for maximum efficiency.
Durability Requirements: If the glass will be exposed or require extensive handling, hard coat glass offers better durability.
Building Orientation: Projects with large glass facades facing direct sunlight may benefit from soft coat Low-E glass to minimize solar heat gain.
Maximizing Building Energy Efficiency with the Right Glass
As an architectural glass manufacturer, we provide high-quality Low-E glass solutions tailored to different climate conditions and energy efficiency requirements. Whether you need hard coat or soft coat Low-E glass, we offer customized solutions to help contractors and developers achieve optimal building performance.
Looking for expert advice on energy-efficient glass solutions? Contact us today to find the best Low-E glass for your next project!
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