Low-E coatings have been developed to minimize the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that can pass through glass without compromising the amount of visible light that is transmitted. When heat or light energy is absorbed by glass, it is either shifted away by moving air or re-radiated by the glass surface.

What is low-e coating made of?

Low-e glass has a thin, transparent coating, generally comprised of a thin layer of silver or other low emissivity material, that reflects infrared energy. Simply put it reflects heat (like a heat mirror) and keeps it inside (see figure 1). This prevents heat transfer between the inside and outside environments.

How long does low-e coating last?

Weaver said that, based on what he has been told, “the newer low-e coatings are much more durable and more securely bonded to the glass than the older-generation low-e’s.” He said the sealant on the glass should last five to 10 years, and the coatings should outlast that by several years.