Can Low-E Glass Damage Your Neighbor’s House?

Low emissivity (low-E) windows feature a highly reflective coating on the glass, which reflects sunlight away from the home to minimize heat transfer, leading to lower energy bills for the homeowner. While low-E glass is an innovative technology that has boosted the energy efficiency of countless homes across the country, some believe that the sunlight reflected by low-E windows can melt the vinyl siding of neighboring homes.

Is it true that Low-E glass can damage nearby homes? Read on to find out.

Can Low-E Windows Damage Nearby Homes?

In general, this concern is overstated. While the issue isn’t fully understood yet, it occurs from differences in barometric pressure between the interior and exterior glass panes in double-pane windows. The pressure difference can cause replacement windows to become slightly concave. As a result, it magnifies the light that’s reflected off the windows, which some people worry is a hazard.

Tips to Minimize the Risk of Heat Damage

If your home is less than 20 feet away from another home with vinyl siding, talk to your contractor about the risks of installing low-E windows. One thing you can do to reduce the risk of damage is planting tall trees between your home and your neighbor’s to act as a barrier. You can also consider installing a polycarbonate awning over the window to minimize glare.

At Renewal by Andersen® of Central Pennsylvania, we are your leading provider of energy-efficient windows and patio doors. Our team installs casement, picture, double-hung, bay and sliding windows and more. Call us at (717) 591-4900 or complete our online form for a free in-home consultation. We work with homeowners in Lancaster, PA.