Glass patio doors are a beautiful addition to any home and one that contributes to its unique design style and overall value. But here in Arizona, where desert nights get chilly and daytime summer temperatures like to linger around the triple digits, it is equally important to make sure your glass doors are as energy efficient as possible.

Doors that are old, poorly sealed or not installed properly can result in air leakage and a loss of heat through a process called conduction. And, because glass is a poor insulator to begin with, taking steps to improve the energy efficiency of your patio doors can go a long way toward saving money on heating and air conditioning throughout the year.

When installing or replacing glass patio doors in your Arizona home, XO Windows recommends keeping in mind the following energy efficiency factors:

R-value

R-value tells you how well your windows or glass doors resist the flow of heat. It involves a specific formula that takes into account the size of the exposed area and the total rate of heat flow through the glass. A higher R-value indicates a more energy-efficient window.

U-factor (or U-value)

Different from R-value, U-factor measures the actual amount of heat transfer to determine how well a window is insulated. The range is usually between 0.25 and 1.25, and here a lower number indicates a more energy-efficient window. You can use this helpful chart to find the ideal U-factor for your climate zone.

Low-E Glass

Low-emissivity (low-E) glass is a relatively new but increasingly popular option for improving energy efficiency in windows and glass doors. A microscopic coating on the glass helps reflect light and heat back to its source. It also impedes a considerable amount of radiant heat and helps to decrease heat flow through the window.

Proper Sealing

Weatherstripping and caulking your windows and glass doors isn’t just about keeping out moisture and cold air. Proper sealing also helps keep the indoor air in and conserve energy by plugging up any openings that may allow air to escape. This helps homeowners save money and still stay cool during the summer months.

Still need help choosing the perfect patio doors? Talk to the experts.

XO Windows offers a wide selection of sliding, swinging and folding glass patio doors to improve energy efficiency and enhance the beauty of your Arizona home. All of our patio doors feature LoĒ³-340 glass, proven to block up to 98% of the sun’s harmful UV radiation and provide year-round comfort by blocking solar heat and reducing heat loss during the winter.

Call XO Windows today at 602-455-6616 or fill out our online form for a free estimate.