Glass is the biggest component of all patio doors, and it is also the most critical one. So whatever patio door replacement option you choose, make sure you think carefully about the glass package. Read on to learn why glass plays such an important role in the performance of patio doors.
The Right Kind of Patio Door Glass
What is the right kind of patio door glass? First, you have to consider that glass is a naturally conductive material, so a single layer of glass separating your indoor and outdoor spaces won’t prevent heat transfer. This translates to heat loss when it’s cold outside and heat gain on hot days. To compensate, your HVAC system will have to work overtime, boosting your energy consumption and thus your energy bills.
This is where dual-panel glass comes into play. Composed of two layers of glass separated by insulated spacers, dual-panel glass eliminates contact between interior and exterior surfaces. This dramatically reduces conduction between your interior and the outdoors. When installed on insulated patio-door frames, dual-panel glass forms an airtight seal when closed, helping maintain a consistent indoor temperature. All Renewal by Andersen® hinged and gliding patio doors feature High-Performance™ Low-E4® dual-panel glass.
High-Performance Low-E4 Glass Packages
We offer three unique glass packages:
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High-Performance Low-E4 Glass: Our standard glass package, this includes a low emissivity (Low E) coating that blocks up to 84% of UV rays. Compared to most dual-panel glass options, High-Performance Low-E4 glass is up to 45% more energy-efficient in the winter and up to 56% more energy-efficient in the summer.
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High-Performance Low-E4 SmartSun™ Glass: This glass package is designed for windows that directly face the sun and is our most energy-efficient option. Compared to most dual-panel glass, it is up to 70% more energy-efficient in the summer and 49% more energy-efficient in winter. It also blocks up to 95% of UV rays, protecting your upholstery and furniture from fading.
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High-Performance Low-E4 Sun Glass: If you find sunlight too intense for your liking, choose this glass package. In addition to the same features as our SmartSun option, you get a subtle tint that softens harsh lighting without darkening your interior.
To learn more about how our glass options work on our gliding and hinged patio doors, call Renewal By Andersen® of Seattle today at (206) 777-0954. Use our contact form to schedule your free in-home consultation. We serve many areas in and near Seattle.