Key takeaways
- Choose low solar heat gain low-E glass
- Protect west and south walls first
- Frame color and shading matter too
Block the sun's heat
In hot climates the sun, not the air, is the main source of heat through windows. Low-E glass with a low solar heat gain coefficient reflects much of it while staying clear.
Tints and reflective coatings can go further but darken the view.
Walls matter
West and south walls take the most sun, so they benefit most. A mix of glass on different walls is common. Our Sun Dial shows which wall needs what.
Shade from trees, awnings and shades helps everywhere.
Frames and seals
Light-colored or heat-reflective frames stay cooler than dark ones in strong sun. Tight seals keep conditioned air in and hot air out, and good installation matters as much as the glass.
Related services
Quick answers
Does tinted glass make a room dark?
Some tints do. Modern low-E coatings are nearly clear and keep rooms bright.
Are dark window frames bad in hot climates?
They absorb more heat, so lighter finishes are often better in strong sun.
Ready to talk it through? Get a free estimate or call 800-224-9245.