Low-E Glass vs Impact Resistant Glass: Which Is Better?

August 4, 2024

Key Takeaways

Low-E glass is coated to reflect heat – a good option for saving energy and providing comfort in various climates.
Impact-resistant glass is designed to withstand force – so it offers extra safety and security for extreme weather conditions or break-in attempts.
Costs may vary, but investing in Low-E or impact resistant glass can lead to long-term financial savings and peace of mind.
Both types of glass have specific specialities, with Low-E being great for climate control and impact-resistant glass being ideal for high-risk areas.
At Panda Windows & Doors, we provide personalized consultations and an extensive selection of design and customization options to ensure you find the perfect fit for your home.

What is Low-E Glass?

Low-E, or low-emissivity glass, is a shield that protects your home from the sun’s heat and winter’s cold. With its microscopically thin coating, it reflects heat, allowing you to effectively control the temperature inside your home without cranking up the AC or the thermal system.

Advantages of Low-E Glass

It slashes energy bills by keeping your home’s temperature more consistent.
It cuts down the harmful UV rays that can fade your furniture and floors.
It improves comfort by eliminating hot and cold spots in rooms.

Disadvantages of Low-E Glass

It costs more upfront than regular glass, and
if not properly installed, the benefits can be compromised.

But when you think about the long-term energy savings, the initial investment is probably worth it.

Here’s how Low-E glass regulates at-home temperatures during summer and winter (image courtesy of Prestige Plus).

Founded in 1991, Panda Windows & Doors specializes in state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems for both residential and commercial spaces through Panda Windows & Doors. Operating from our manufacturing facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, we have been at the forefront of innovation for over 30 years. Our extensive product lineup includes over 80 high-end offerings, such as pivot doors, French doors, folding doors, lift & slides, multi-slides, horizontal sliding walls, and operable windows. These systems are available in materials like aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, solid wood, and aluminum-wood clad.

We are renowned for our award-winning designs, engineering solutions, and fast lead times, delivering in just 6-10 weeks to customers throughout the U.S. and Caribbean. Trusted by leading architectural firms and glaziers nationwide, we stand as the premier manufacturer of custom luxury windows and doors in the United States.

Explore Custom Solutions from Panda Windows & Doors Today

What is Impact Resistant Glass?

Impact-resistant glass is made by bonding two or more layers of glass with a plastic interlayer, like PVB (polyvinyl butyral). When hit, the glass may crack, but the pieces stick to the plastic, keeping the overall window intact.

Advantages of Impact-Resistant Glass

It provides a sturdy barrier against extreme weather and potential intruders.
It reduces noise, making your home a peaceful sanctuary.
It can lower insurance premiums because of the added security and protection it offers.

Disadvantages of Impact-Resistant Glass

On the flip side, impact-resistant glass:

is heavier and pricier than standard glass.
requires a stronger frame and support, which adds to the installation cost.

We’ll say this, though: when a storm hits, you’ll be thankful you didn’t cheap out!

The sturdiness of impact-resistant glass, also known as hurricane or storm glass (image courtesy of Air Master Windows).

Low-E Glass vs Impact Resistant Glass

Energy Efficiency

When it comes to keeping your energy bills down, Low-E glass is the top option. Specially designed to reflect heat, it does some of the work of heating and cooling systems.

While impact-resistant glass doesn’t have the same heat-reflective properties, it can still be an energy-efficient option if combined with Low-E coatings.

Cost Considerations

Low-E glass typically costs more than regular glass because of its advanced coating. However, the energy savings over time can more than make up for the upfront costs.

Impact resistant glass also comes with a higher price tag due to its complex construction, but it can save you money in other ways (like reduced insurance premiums in hurricane-prone areas.)

Installation and Maintenance

Proper installation is necessary for Low-E glass to prevent seal failure, while impact-resistant glass needs a sturdy frame to support its weight.

At Panda Windows & Doors, we recommend hiring specialized third-party installers for our manufactured products.

Maintenance-wise, both types are relatively low hassle. Just clean them as you would any other glass, and they’ll keep doing their job.

Aesthetic and Practical Considerations

Low-E and impact-resistant glass share the quality of being both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Low-E glass is virtually indistinguishable from regular glass, allowing for a wide variety of design options. For impact-resistant glass, although it’s thicker, it doesn’t require major alterations to the aesthetic of your windows.

Ideal Uses for Each Glass Type

Best Situations for Low-E Glass

Areas with extreme temperatures, both hot and cold.
Homes where energy efficiency is a priority.

Places with high exposure to sunlight to protect against UV rays.

A Low-E glass window keeping a house warm during winter.

Best Situations for Impact-Resistant Glass

Coastal areas at risk of hurricanes and storms.
Urban environments where security and noise reduction are concerns.
Any location where safety from natural or human threats is paramount.

CRITERIA	LOW-E GLASS	IMPACT RESISTANT GLASS
Energy Efficiency	– Excellent energy efficiency by reflecting heat back into interior space – Reduces heating and cooling costs significantly	– Does not inherently provide energy efficiency benefits unless combined with low-e coating
Cost Considerations	– Higher upfront cost than regular glass – Long-term energy savings can offset initial cost	– More expensive than regular annealed glass due to laminated construction
Installation & Maintenance	– Requires careful handling during installation to avoid coating damage – Regular cleaning with approved, non-abrasive cleaners	– Heavier and more difficult to install than regular glass – Proper professional installation recommended – Regular cleaning with approved cleaners
Aesthetic & Practical Considerations	– Can have a slightly tinted appearance – Reduces UV transmission to protect interior furnishings	– Thicker profile but remains transparent – Provides superior protection against hurricanes, storms, security breaches and accidents
When to Use	– Hot, sunny climates to reduce cooling costs – Cold climates to allow solar heat gain while insulating – Year-round efficiency in regions with seasonal variations – UV protection for furnishings	– Hurricane/storm-prone regions – Coastal homes facing hurricane risks and high cooling costs – High security needs like commercial buildings – New construction or retrofits in hurricane zones

Comparison table between Low-E glass and impact resistant glass.

Making the Right Choice with Panda Windows & Doors

Choosing the right glass for your windows and doors is about making a smart investment in your home’s safety, comfort, and efficiency.

At Panda Windows & Doors, we believe that your windows and doors should reflect your personal taste while providing the protection and efficiency you deserve.

Here’s what we offer:

1. Design: We help you choose the right custom luxury glass doors and windows from our 80+ options.

Tailor every detail, including glass types like Low-E or impact resistant glass.

Review and approve your sales order to ensure all specifications are correct before manufacturing.

2. Manufacturing: Our project manager confirms all necessary components and orders any unique materials.

CNC machines precisely cut and mill extrusions.
Extrusions are then thoroughly cleaned and powder-coated for a durable finish.

3. Quality Control: Each product undergoes rigorous inspection and testing on our Test Wall. We ensure smooth functionality and quality, providing you with photos and videos of your products before packaging.

4. Packaging & Shipping: Products are wrapped in protective materials and placed in custom-built crates for safe transit. We ensure your order arrives intact, whether shipping domestically or internationally.

5. Delivery & Warranty: Inspect your order upon arrival and register the product to activate the Limited Warranty. Apply a high-quality finish to wood surfaces within 7 days to prevent damage. Ensure proper installation and protection during construction.

6. Care & Maintenance: Follow our care and maintenance guide to keep your Panda products in top condition. Regular cleaning and maintenance will ensure a lifetime of use and beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does the U-factor of Low-E glass compare to that of Impact Resistant glass?

The U-factor measures how well a window insulates. Low-E glass has a lower U-factor, meaning better insulation properties, because of its heat-reflective coating. Impact resistant glass can also have a low U-factor if it’s combined with Low-E coatings.

While the U-factor is an important consideration, it’s not the only one. You’ll also want to think about the specific challenges your home faces, like extreme weather or security concerns, and weigh those against the U-factor to make the most informed decision.

Can I combine Low-E with Impact Resistant features in a single window?

Absolutely! Combining Low-E coatings with impact-resistant glass gives you energy savings and robust protection. This combination is ideal for homeowners in areas that experience extreme weather and a need for improved energy efficiency.

What are the long-term financial benefits of installing Low-E or Impact Resistant glass?

Low-E glass can reduce your energy bills by keeping your home more temperature-stable year-round.
Impact-resistant glass can lower your insurance premiums, especially in areas prone to severe weather.
Both options can increase your home’s value and appeal to potential buyers with their added features.

How do Low-E and Impact Resistant glasses respond to varying climate conditions?

Low-E glass excels in climates with extreme temperatures, reflecting heat to keep interiors comfortable without overworking HVAC systems.

In contrast, impact-resistant glass is designed to withstand harsh conditions, such as hurricanes or attempted break-ins, providing a stalwart defense regardless of climate.

Are there any special care instructions for windows with Low-E or Impact Resistant glass?

Use a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge to clean the glass.
Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the coatings or seals.
Inspect the windows regularly for any signs of damage or seal failure.

With proper care, your windows will continue to provide energy efficiency and protection for many years.

At Panda Windows & Doors, we’re here to ensure that decision is supported by quality products and expert service. Whether you choose Low-E glass for its energy-saving properties, impact resistant glass for its protective qualities, or a combination of both, you’re making a wise decision that will contribute to a safer and more comfortable home.