Low-E Glass Windows: What Brandon Homeowners Should Know

Discover How Using Low-E Windows Can Help

Florida is the Sunshine State, but that sunshine can make it hard (and costly) to keep your home cool year-round. Discover how you can use low-e glass windows to improve your home’s energy efficiency.

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What Are Low-E Glass Windows?

Low-E is a shortening of “Low Emissivity,” a term used to describe a specialized coating for glass that is used to enhance its energy efficiency. Low-e glass windows are windows that have been given the low emissivity film.

What Makes Low-E Glass Windows Different?

So, what does having a low-e coating do for a window or door product? Here’s what makes low-e glass windows different from clear glass windows:

Low-E Glass Helps Reduce Your Energy Costs

Because Low-E windows help reflect away hot UV and infrared light from your home, your air conditioning doesn’t have to work as hard. This, in turn, helps you reduce your monthly AC costs.

Passive Low-E vs Solar Low-E Glass

There are two kinds of Low-E glass: Passive and Solar Control. Passive glass actually increases solar heat gain, which is bad for Tampa homes. Make sure you get Solar Low-E glass.

Energy Star Requirements and Low E Windows

Low-E coatings are not a requirement for Energy Star, per se. However, they are a common feature of Energy Star-compliant windows and doors because they improve SHGC.

Get a Quote for Low-E Glass Windows

If you’re looking to reduce your monthly energy costs, low-e glass windows are definitely the way to go! Before you buy, though, it’s important to have an accurate and reliable quote for service in hand. Request a free.

Brandon Low-E Glass Windows

Impact Windows

Impact windows are built to withstand heavy impacts and high wind pressures to protect your home from the worst of storm season. With multiple panes of low-e glass, these windows can be incredibly energy-efficient.

Double Hung Windows

Low-e double-hung windows have two sashes that can move up and down to make ventilating a space a breeze, but still effectively block out UV and infrared light when shut to enhance your home’s energy efficiency.

Sliding Windows

With large rollers, sliding windows are easy to open and close, providing great ventilation when needed. Use low-e glass sliding windows to make them as energy-efficient as possible when closed to save money.

Picture Windows

Picture windows have large glass panels that give a great view, but can let in a lot of warm sunlight. Using low-e glass in your Brandon home’s picture windows helps keep things cool and save you money each month.

Casement Windows

Casements swing open horizontally to maximize the open area when they’re open. Make your casement window more energy efficient when closed by using low e vs clear glass to block out the sun’s heat.

Awning Windows

Get energy-efficient awning windows that block out harmful UV and infrared light that heats up your home to save money every month on your electricity bill. Maximize your savings with expert installation from Karoly.

Bay Windows

These windows project out from the home and let in a lot of light, giving you a great view. Make your bay windows as energy-efficient as possible by using low-e glass that reflects UV and infrared light back outside.

Custom Windows

Get custom low-e windows that are specifically crafted to your needs and specifications to better suit your home. Karoly works with several leading window makers to provide custom options for Brandon homes.

Low E Glass Doors

Windows aren’t the only openings in your home that should be as energy efficient as possible! Karoly Windows & Doors also offers a variety of Low-E doors from different manufacturers to provide Brandon homeowners with extra energy-efficient doors.

Brandon Low E Glass Doors

Sliding Glass Doors

Sliding glass doors have an extremely large surface area to let sunlight in. Using low-e glass can help minimize the amount of UV and infrared light that enters to keep your home cool.

Standard Sliding Patio Doors

An ever-popular option for homes in Brandon and beyond, sliding patio doors are a great fit for almost any house. Get low-e glass doors that block harmful UV and infrared rays.

Pocket Sliding Doors

Pocket sliding doors are a little unique in that they have a track that runs along your back wall to let them slide well past the door frame. Keep yours energy efficient with low-e glass!

Bi-Parting Doors

Bi-parting doors close and open from the middle of the door frame for a more elegant look and feel. Lots of homeowners choose to use low-e glass for these doors to maximize energy efficiency.

Exterior Doors

Karoly offers a wide range of energy-efficient doors from different door manufacturers to help you find the perfect exterior door to suit your preferences while enhancing energy efficiency.

Entry Doors

Keep the hot air out and the cool air in with energy-efficient entry doors that use low-e glass. Save money on your energy bill every month by making this critical energy efficiency improvement.

Double Entry Doors

Install double doors that have double the impact on your visitors without sacrificing energy efficiency. Get low-e glass double doors that keep out harmful UV and infrared light to keep cool.

French Doors

With heavy-duty rails and a classical construction style, French doors can make a strong impression on others. Get expertly-installed French doors with enhanced energy efficiency from Karoly!

Check Out Our Reviews

          Posted on Google  
   
   W Murphy 
 8 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
I reached out to Karoly for new sliding windows in my florida room and two exterior doors.  Karoly came out and spent quite a while getting all the measurements right.  That makes you feel good.  When the installers came out, two days and done.  Windows look great and the doors are solid and close tight.  Everything is now impact and hurricane rated.  I got my insurance discount.  Thanks Karoly!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Elva Morales 
 1 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Villi and Christian did a fantastic job replacing all the windows in my home! Their attention to detail, professionalism, and care
throughout the project truly stood out. I'm extremely pleased with the results and want their supervisor to know what a wonderful team they are. Thank you both for your excellent work!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mark Hodge 
 12 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
Great job, guys! You went above and beyond from start to finish. I’m really glad I chose to do business with you. Finding a good, reliable contractor isn’t always easy, but you definitely delivered. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend you to anyone looking for quality work and great service.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ben Khosravani 
 11 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a leak under a sliding door, which was installed by the previous owner of our condo. I called Karoly and they came in less than 3 days and the very friendly, professional representatives fixed the issue at no charge.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Anthony Pinto 
 27 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service from beginning to end, everyone on the team was extremely friendly and helpful!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Daniel Melker 
 24 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am very hard to please as I pretty much expect close to perfection.  From a serious point I just want a TEAM that cares and gives it their best.  Mistakes happen.  However today I had Hurricane windows placed by Karoly.  Actually from the very beginning it was like dealing with a family.  In all my dealing with different companies A/C etc they far outshined any company I have ever dealt with.  My techs were  Vili, Zoli and Christian.  They gave 150%, were very clean, cared about our house and did exquisite workmanship.  1,000% incredible and guess what they are not my relatives.  LOL
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Nina Goins 
 24 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Karoly sent us Bo and Peter who completed the job in one day.  Very professional,  cleaned up after themselves, and what they removed including the door jams, threshold, trim was all reinstalled.  They di exceptional work.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Cheryl Sigmon 
 21 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +2
I will never be able to brag enough about how superior this company is. My husband and I interviewed at least seven window companies, all full of similar products of PGT or other hurricane safe Windows. We became window experts on our own with the knowledge we absorbed comparing apples to apples.

Karoly was the final company we met with and Austin presentation was simple and he showed us a sample and did all the measurements. He explained the Simonton brand very well and the warranty they offer cannot be beat. We visited their showroom and met with Jesse  to really look at products. Our decision was quick and easy and the price was better than their competitors.

We completed all the paperwork with Richy and Angela and the rest of the wonderful staff. Installation day came and we met the fantastic installers that were so kind and clean. In 3 days our job was done. The day after that inspector came and passed us and one week later Karoly came back to complete final installation of some parts and now it’s all finished.

These windows have changed our home completely. Not only did we work with the best contractor and save money we also gained a more beautiful home and it’s so quiet! No barking dogs or loud traffic or thunder anymore just peaceful tranquility!!!

Thank you everyone at Karoly for making us so happy!!! I promise to call you again for all my other houses!! This was the best thing we’ve ever done without a doubt .

Sincerely,
Cheryl & Doug Sigmon
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Michael Cotten 
 17 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
Thrilled with our new windows and doors. Dealing with Karoly, from no pressure sales, installation, and close out was great. They kept us informed and did everything they said they would. Highly recommend Karoly Windows and Doors!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jennifer Orlando 
 5 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After researching a few companies, I decided to go with Karoly.  They replaced 19 windows and 3 sliders with Sinomton Stormbreaker Plus 300VL and Simonton Maxview.  I enjoyed reading the information they had on their website and pleased to see this is a family owned business with emphasis on quality work and customer satisfaction.  Employees were pleasant and professional and answered my questions.  It has only been almost 2 years since installation and from my experience thus far, I would highly recommend Karoly.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ken Averitt 
 29 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +1
I couldn't be happier with my experience with Karoly Windows & Doors! They replaced all of my windows along with two doors, and the entire experience exceeded my expectations. From start to finish, everyone was professional, friendly, and truly cared about doing the job right.

The installation crews were outstanding. They were hardworking, respectful of my home, paid attention to every detail, and the quality of their workmanship was exceptional. I'm extremely pleased with the quality of the window replacement, the beautiful new doors, and the finished results.

I was so impressed with the company that I've already recommended Karoly Windows & Doors to several of my neighbors. It's refreshing to work with a company that delivers exactly what they promise. If you're considering window replacement, I highly recommend Karoly Windows & Doors. They are a true first-class company, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the entire experience.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jim Martin 
 18 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +1
So so thrilled with service, timelines, cleanliness.   After 17 windows & 3 doors were installed,  my home looked transformed.
  
 
 
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Low-E Glass FAQs for Brandon

What Is the Downside of Low-E Glass?

A lot of consumers wonder “what’s the catch?” when they hear about the energy efficiency benefits of using windows with a low-e coating.

The biggest ‘downside’ to using low-e glass windows and doors is that they’ll have a higher upfront cost than identical windows and doors that don’t have the special coating. However, this ‘disadvantage’ is more than balanced out by the long-term savings that installing energy-efficient glass windows and doors can have for a Florida home.

The other downside is that, because the low emissivity properties of this glass is due to a coating, special care needs to be taken to protect said coating. So, you should avoid using ammonia-based cleaners that may strip the coating.

Which Is Better: Double-Paned Glass or Low-E Glass?

When measuring energy efficiency, a lot of window buyers wonder what provides the biggest bang for their buck: low-e coatings or multi-layered glass windows.

Having two panes of glass (especially with an inert gas fill like argon gas) does a better overall job of insulating the home from outside temperatures. However, low-e coatings are specifically better at reducing solar heat gain for the cost.

In Florida, that would make low-e glass the better overall option… but why not maximize energy efficiency and do both? You can have both low-e glass and multiple panes of glass to make your home as energy efficient as possible.

Many impact windows have two or more panes of glass and other protective materials. Adding a low-e glass film to these windows would help you get the best possible insulation for your home to keep it cool in the Florida heat.

Low-E Glass vs Clear Glass: Which Is Better?

In terms of energy efficiency, low emissivity (low-e) glass is clearly better than clear glass. It blocks out the UV and infrared light rays that make your house hotter, which means your AC system doesn’t have to work as hard to keep your home cool.

Clear glass lets in the light and the radiation that makes your home hotter. If you want to keep cool, then your air conditioning system will need to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature, raising your energy costs.

In almost all other aspects, Low-e and clear glass are the same. The only ‘advantages’ of clear, untreated glass are its lower initial cost and its clarity. The first will be offset over time as your home energy consumption is reduced by the low-e coating and the latter is a matter of pure personal preference.

For almost every Florida home, we would strongly recommend low-e vs clear glass windows for the long-term savings they can provide.

How Long Do Low-E Glass Coatings Last?

In most cases, with proper care, a low-e glass coating on a window should last for as long as the window itself. On multi-layered glass windows and doors where the coating is on an interior glass pane, it should last until the window itself fails.

However, improper care can damage the coating. For example, using strong ammonia-based glass cleaning solutions and rough tools to wash the window may strip the coating if touched directly. Be sure to consult with your window installer to get proper care advice for your new windows.

Are There Different Types of Low-E Glass?

Yes. There are many different types of low e coatings for glass from different manufacturers. Some specialize in maximizing energy efficiency, others in making the glass look as clear as possible.

Also, there are two different varieties of low e coatings to know about: Passive and Solar Control.

Passive Low-E coatings actually maximize the amount of solar energy being transferred into the home, reflecting warmth back inside to heat the house up. This is the kind of coating that would be used in more Northern climates where temperatures are typically lower for most of the year.

Solar Control Low-E coatings reflect solar heat to keep it outside the home to keep it cooler throughout the year. This is the type of low e coating most often used in Florida since ours is a more tropical climate.

How Much Does Low-E Glass Cost?

The answer depends on the size of your window, the manufacturer, and the grade of low-e coating applied to your window. Adding a specialized coating will increase the cost of your new window or door.

For more specific pricing information, you would need to speak with a window installation expert who knows the size and style of window or door you’re looking to install.

Will Low-E Glass Meet ENERGY STAR Requirements?

Energy Star v7.0 has some strict requirements for windows, doors, and skylights. Using low-e glass in your window or door can help it meet these requirements, but that alone doesn’t guarantee compliance.

When buying new windows and doors, look at the U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) figures for that product to see if they meet the program’s requirements.

For windows in the southern U.S. to meet Energy Star v7.0 standards, they must have a U-factor of 0.32 or less and an SHGC of 0.23 or less. Door requirements would be 0.50 or lower U-factor and 0.25 or less SHGC.

Look for the ENERGY STAR mark on the product and verify it through the Energy Star product finder page.

Reasons to Get Low-E Windows from Karoly

So, as a homeowner in Brandon, why should you get your new energy-efficient windows and doors from Karoly? It’s because Karoly Windows:

Has 20+ Years of Experience. We’ve worked with homeowners throughout the greater Tampa Bay area for over 20 years, earning accolades and positive reviews for our dedication to quality and service.

Isn’t Beholden to a Single Manufacturer. We work with multiple window and door manufacturers so we can get the best deals on new windows and doors for your needs.

Does the Work the Right Way Every Time. Our installation techs are all in-house employees who are held to our company’s high standards. With Karoly, you never have to worry about an unskilled third-party contractor doing the job incorrectly. You get experienced techs who are on the Karoly payroll.

Specializes in Florida Residential Windows. We’re a locally-owned Florida-based business that specializes in windows and doors made for the Floridian market. We know the Florida Building Code and how to uphold it so you can trust your new windows to last.

Offers a Platinum Standard Lifetime Guarantee. We back every window installation with a lifetime guarantee that includes a 25-year installation warranty and a 50-year material warranty so you can have peace of mind.

Get your energy-efficient windows and doors from Brandon’s most trusted window replacement company so you can rest easy knowing that your new windows will protect your pocketbook from rising energy costs for decades to come.

Other Areas We Serve

Need Low-E windows for your home? Karoly Windows & Doors is here to help! Here are some of the other areas we serve:

Request an In-Person Consultation Now!

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