Designing and building quality windows starts with choosing the right glass. For window makers in the Southern U.S.—where sun, heat, humidity, and storms are part of everyday life—smart glass selection can make or break a project’s success. From energy efficiency to comfort and durability, choosing the right glazing products helps buildings perform better and last longer.
Here’s how to get it right.
Understand the Southern Climate Challenge
In states like Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and New Mexico, summer temperatures can soar past 100°F. That means heat gain is a major concern. Add high humidity in places like Arkansas and Missouri, and the wrong glass can lead to uncomfortable interiors, rising energy costs, and even long-term damage to window frames.
To meet these challenges, window makers must consider performance and protection—glass that keeps heat out, resists moisture buildup, and stands up to the elements.
Prioritize Low-E Glass for Heat Control
Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is essential for projects in sunny, southern climates. It reflects infrared heat while letting in natural light, reducing solar heat gain. For single-pane windows or older frames, upgrading to Low-E can dramatically cut interior temps and reduce HVAC costs.
Look for Low-E coatings tailored for warm regions. Some types are designed to reflect more heat than they absorb, keeping interiors cooler without darkening the glass.
Use Insulated Glass Units for Energy Efficiency
Insulated Glass Units (IGUs)—typically double or triple panes with a spacer and sealed air or gas in between—are a must for thermal performance. In hot climates, they reduce both heat gain and loss, while improving sound insulation and durability.
IGUs with argon or krypton gas fill offer even better insulation, especially when paired with Low-E coatings. Make sure to source your IGUs from reliable fabricators who ensure tight seals and consistent performance.
Consider Tinted and Reflective Glass
Tinted glass isn’t just for aesthetics—it can help block solar radiation and cut glare. Bronze, gray, and blue-green tints are popular in southern commercial and residential applications, offering both style and sun protection.
Reflective glass, coated with a metallic layer, adds another layer of defense by bouncing sunlight away. It’s ideal for storefronts, offices, or any glass-heavy design where controlling brightness and privacy matters.
Don’t Overlook Moisture Resistance
In states like Louisiana or coastal Texas, high humidity can lead to fogging, condensation, or even mildew buildup around window frames. That’s where warm-edge spacers in IGUs—and proper edge sealing—become critical.
When possible, choose glass configurations tested for high-moisture climates. It’s not just about looks—it’s about long-term performance.
Match Glass Type to Application
For residential projects, comfort and UV protection might be top priorities. For commercial buildings, visibility, glare control, and energy ratings come into play.
Here are a few quick pairing suggestions:
- Residential homes: Low-E + IGUs
- Storefronts and retail: Tinted or reflective glass
- Schools or offices: Laminated Low-E for both safety and solar control
- Custom or upscale homes: Patterned or decorative IGUs with Low-E
Each project should be tailored, but these combos help strike a strong balance between looks and performance.
Work with the Right Supplier
Choosing the right glass is only half the battle. Sourcing from a trusted supplier ensures you get consistent quality, fast turnarounds, and access to new innovations in the glazing industry.
At Sky Building Materials, we work closely with window makers across Texas, Oklahoma, and the Southern U.S. to provide the best products—Low-E glass, IGUs, laminated, and more—all tailored for regional performance.
Let’s Build Smarter
Optimizing your glass selection for Southern projects means thinking about more than looks. It’s about durability, performance, and keeping buildings cool, dry, and beautiful. Whether you’re updating residential designs or scaling up commercial jobs, Sky Building Materials can help you get the right glass for the job.