When you live in Arizona, summer isn’t just about ice cream and waterparks. It also calls for preparing your home for the desert heat! For example, maybe you’re planning to install an awning or clean the pool. Or perhaps you’re getting your HVAC serviced, just to be safe.

You might also consider tinting your windows. Tinted windows, after all, are said to control heat during the blazing Arizona summers. But what if there is a better option?

Enter LoĒ³-340. As a solar control glass, LoĒ³-340 offers even more thermal benefits than tinted windows. LoĒ³-340 also exceeds in the areas where tinted glass falls short.

Let’s look at how LoĒ³-340 can reduce solar heat — and why you shouldn’t tint your windows.

What exactly are tinted windows?

There are two ways to tint your home windows.

One method is to use tinted film, which clings to the glass of windows. The film, which is cut to size and applied by hand, is designed to block sunlight.

Some homeowners apply the tint themselves, while others have a professional do it.

Another method is to install windows with tinted glass, which works by absorbing sunlight. It can also enhance your home’s privacy, but unfortunately, it’s not the most efficient option for cooling down your home.

Tinted windows have many disadvantages.

While tinted film and glass can help block the sun’s light, there are many drawbacks for each one.

Applying tinted film can be tricky if you have special locks and latches. Plus, if you have specialty shape windows, it can be difficult to cut the film to size.

Impeccable installation is also crucial. A poor application of window tint will create unsightly bubbles and wrinkles on your windows.

Additionally, some window manufacturers might void your warranty if you apply tinted film.

The disadvantages of tinted glass are even more complicated. Aside from blocking your view of the great outdoors, tinted glass primarily absorbs sunlight. In other words, it’s most effective at blocking light — but not heat — out of your home.

Since tinted glass absorbs sunlight, it can also get very hot. This only increases the risk of cracking due to thermal stress.

Tinted glass is also associated with glaring deficiencies. Moreover, the thicker the glass, the more the tint will change.

Why is LoĒ³-340 the way to go?

LoĒ³-340 is a coated solar control glass that blocks both heat and sun rays. It also offers optimal thermal throughout the entire year (“LoĒ” means “low emissivity”).

To make LoĒ³-340, glass manufacturers coat raw glass with layers of metallic particles, including titanium, silver, and zinc. These elements keep your house cool by reflecting the sun’s heat and light.

In turn, you won’t have to crank up the AC and pay outrageous energy bills.

Here’s what makes LoĒ³-340 a cut above the rest:

• UV Radiation. LoĒ³-340 blocks about 98% of UV rays, which can fade your furniture, carpet, and curtains.

• Visible light. Since LoĒ³-340 absorbs and reflects 60% of visible light, it has a muted blue hue. This color controls glare better than bronze tint.

• Near infrared light. LoĒ³-340 blocks almost all near infrared light, which are invisible solar rays that make you feel warm in the heat. These rays can also cause eye damage.

It’s crucial to note LoĒ³-340’s level of glare control. In order to match it, tinted glass would have to be ¼-inch thick.

Have questions? XO Windows is here to help.

From glaring problems to thermal breakage, there are many drawbacks to tinted windows. On the other hand, LoĒ³-340 reduces solar heat without the risk of these issues. That’s why XO Windows is honored to offer LoĒ³-340 glass for all your window needs.

We also have the largest assortment of windows and doors in Arizona. From new home construction to window replacements, our team is prepared to work on your next project.

For a free estimate, complete our online form or contact us at 602-455-6616.