Energy efficient glass is on the way

Architects have always struggled with windows. In ancient buildings, the trick was to make the window big enough to admit light, and not so big that it allowed too much heat (or rain, or snow) to get into the building. Then came glass.

Windows key to energy efficient buildings

Single pane windows were the norm, but it should come as no surprise that glass is to blame for about 50% of a building’s heat loss, and about 90% of a building’s heat gain. Sadly, the heat loss comes in the winter, and the heat gain arrives in the summer. Double pane windows can help resist changes in internal temperature, but they’re plagued with their own set of problems.

Window frames warp over time, opening large gaps around the window. Seals between glass break, causing the insulating gas to escape. Once this happens, moisture accumulates between the panes, and the insulating value of double pane windows is lost.

Controlling the transfer of heat between the exterior and the interior is essential in today’s construction. High quality replacement windows can reduce energy consumption by close to 30%, so there’s definitely an advantage to gaining energy efficiency.

The next evolution of construction glass is likely to be “smart glass.” Smart glass is also called tunable glass, because nanoparticles embedded in the glass can orient themselves when a small electrical current is applied. The current causes the window to become opaque virtually instantly, and allows better control of both light transmission and heat gain or loss.

If window replacement isn’t part of your plan, you can still employ strategic heat and light control by using Glassprimer™ glass paint. Glassprimer™ glass paint provides coverage for about $1 per square foot, and comes in virtually any color. Glassprimer™ glass paint can still permit light transmission, while providing exceptional UV resistance.

If you’d like more information about Glassprimer™ glass paint, please visit the rest of our site. If you’d like to purchase Glassprimer™ glass paint, please visit our online store .

Photo Credit: Thomas Brown, via Flickr.com