Beyond Clear Glass: Why Premium Window Glass Upgrades Are Worth Every Penny

swwindowanddoorco
Apr 21
3 min read

When it comes to replacing your windows, most homeowners focus on the frame or style—but the real power lies in the glass package. If your window glass is basic, single-strength, or even standard double-pane with no enhancements, you're missing out on serious benefits that go far beyond looks.

At Southwest Window & Door, we work with premium brands like Wincore, Andersen, and ProVia to offer you glass upgrades that enhance comfort, energy efficiency, sound control, and safety—tailored for the demands of Arkansas homes.

Here’s why upgrading your glass is one of the smartest investments you can make.

🛡️ 1. Double-Strength Glass for Durability and Security

Most standard windows come with single-strength glass, which is easier to crack or break. Double-strength glass is significantly more impact-resistant—ideal for storm protection, security, and everyday peace of mind. It’s standard in our Wincore 5400 and 7700 series, and available in Andersen and ProVia lines.

Benefits:

Greater durability against impacts and stress
Fewer seal failures and longer window lifespan
Improved home security

🌞 2. Low-E Glass: Reflect the Heat, Let in the Light

Low-E (Low Emissivity) glass has a microscopically thin coating that reflects heat. It keeps hot Arkansas summers out and retains warmth in the winter—without sacrificing natural light.

Options We Offer:

Wincore’s Energy Miser Low-E coatings
Andersen’s SmartSun®: blocks 95% of UV rays while letting in light—ideal for sun-facing rooms
ProVia’s ComforTech™ DLA-UV: excellent balance of solar control and clarity

🔥 3. HeatLock® Coatings (Andersen)

Andersen’s HeatLock® coating adds an interior thermal layer to improve performance even further—particularly in colder climates or north-facing walls.

Why It’s Smart:

Reflects heat back into the home in winter
Combines with SmartSun for dual-season performance

🔇 4. Sound Transmission Control (STC-Rated Glass)

Live near traffic, a busy street, or noisy neighbors? Upgrade to acoustically enhanced glass with higher STC (Sound Transmission Class) ratings.

Wincore & ProVia Options:

Laminated glass packages that dampen sound
Optional STC-rated upgrades in double and triple-pane units

Results:

Quieter living spaces
Better sleep and peace of mind

❄️ 5. Triple-Pane Glass for Ultimate Insulation

Triple-pane windows contain three layers of glass with two insulating air spaces (often filled with argon or krypton gas). They offer superior thermal performance, especially for large windows or homes aiming for maximum energy savings.

Available in:

Andersen’s A-Series and E-Series
ProVia’s Endure™ window line
Wincore’s optional triple-pane upgrade

Benefits:

Drastically improved U-Factor and solar heat gain
Reduced noise infiltration
Enhanced comfort in temperature extremes

🛠️ 6. Tempered Glass: Required & Recommended

Tempered safety glass is heat-treated to be four times stronger than regular glass and shatters into small, blunt pieces for safety.

Where It’s Used:

Required by code near doors, bathtubs, stairs, or large windows close to the floor
Also a great choice for patio doors and large fixed windows

🧱 7. Laminated Glass: Storm, Security & Sound Protection

Laminated glass has a strong interlayer (like car windshields) that holds the glass together if broken—excellent for storm zones, break-in prevention, and sound insulation.

Available in:

Andersen’s Impact-Resistant Glass packages
ProVia’s SoundSafe™ laminated options
Wincore’s laminated storm glass upgrades

⚡ 8. Gas Fills: Argon or Krypton for Insulation

All of our Wincore, ProVia, and Andersen windows offer argon gas-filled IGUs (insulated glass units) as a standard or upgrade. For even better insulation, krypton gas is available in select triple-pane systems.

🏡 A Custom Glass Package for Every Home

Every home has different needs. Whether you’re looking for:

UV protection for your hardwood floors
Reduced street noise for your nursery
Maximum efficiency in an older home
Extra safety around kids or pets

We have a tailored solution to meet your lifestyle and budget.

✔️ Bottom Line: Why Homeowners Should Upgrade

✔ Lower monthly energy bills✔ Quieter, more comfortable spaces✔ UV protection for furniture & flooring✔ Higher resale value✔ Less condensation & glass fogging✔ Stronger protection during storms and break-ins

Work with the Experts in Window Glass Solutions

At Southwest Window & Door, we believe your windows should do more than just “look good.” They should protect, insulate, and elevate your home. That’s why we offer the full range of glass upgrades from trusted manufacturers like Wincore, Andersen, and ProVia.