Glass Options
The Andersen 100 Series offers a selection of glass options designed to enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and performance. These options are crafted to meet various needs, from reducing heat transfer to providing privacy and a specific aesthetic.
Low-E Glass Options: The primary glass offering for the 100 Series is Low-E glass, which helps to reduce the amount of ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) light that passes through the window. This translates to several benefits:
- Low-E4® Glass: This is the standard Low-E glass for the 100 Series. It is engineered to reflect a significant portion of the sun's heat, which can help keep your home cooler in the summer and reduce heating costs in the winter. It also helps to block harmful UV rays that can fade furniture, carpets, and artwork over time.
- Low-E4® Sun Glass: For areas with intense sunlight or for homeowners seeking maximum solar heat gain reduction, Low-E4 Sun Glass is available. This option provides even greater solar control, further reducing heat transfer from the sun.
Tempered Glass: In applications where safety is a concern, such as near doors, floors, or in bathrooms, tempered glass is an option. Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that is heat-treated or chemically treated to increase its strength. If broken, it shatters into small, relatively harmless pieces, unlike standard glass which breaks into sharp shards.
Obscure Glass: For areas where privacy is desired, such as bathrooms or bedrooms, obscure glass is available. This type of glass diffuses light and provides a translucent effect, obscuring the view from the outside while still allowing natural light to enter.
Glass Thickness: The 100 Series typically utilizes double-pane construction with a sealed air or gas space between the panes. The thickness of the glass and the width of the space are optimized for thermal performance, with specific configurations designed to meet ENERGY STAR® requirements in various regions. The exact specifications for glass thickness and spacer width will vary depending on the chosen Low-E option and the climate zone.
Gas Fills: While not always explicitly detailed as a separate "option" for the 100 Series, Andersen utilizes inert gas fills like Argon between the glass panes in their energy-efficient configurations. Argon is denser than air and has lower thermal conductivity, which further enhances the insulating properties of the window, reducing heat transfer.
It is recommended to consult the specific product details or an Andersen representative for the most precise information regarding glass options and their performance characteristics for your particular needs and region.
