You may hear reports about someone’s neighbor’s vinyl siding melting. This is an extraordinary case, but as more homes use Low-E windows, this becomes a widespread problem.
How Do Low-E Windows Damage the Next-Door Cladding?
Low-emissive windows, otherwise known as Low-E windows, use a special coating that makes them energy-efficient. This thin, metallic layer reflects heat away from your home.Therefore, it creates window glare.
However, this reflection can affect your neighbor’s vinyl siding. When your energy-efficient window pane becomes slightly concave, it acts like a magnifying glass. In other words, it intensifies the heat that can burn or melt the objects on its path, including the next-door exterior wall.
Is There Anything You Can Do to Prevent This Damage?
There are several ways to protect the house next door from melted or warped vinyl. These solutions do not force you to switch to a standard window. Hence, you will still be able to enjoy the benefits of Low-E windows without worrying about melting or warping the house next door’s wall.
1. Hire an Inspector to Check on the Windows
If you are planning to move to a new home, ask the inspector to examine the windows, especially if they are facing the southwest. If the examiner tells you that the installed windows can potentially damage your neighbor’s vinyl siding, you may think of solutions that may prevent this damage. After all, you do not want to start fighting with your new neighbors.
2. Plant Trees in Your Garden
Plants do not only enhance the beauty of your yard. They can also avoid having a warped vinyl siding. Plants like shady trees act as a cover, which prevents sunlight from reaching your Low-E windows. With this solution, you can avoid dealing with angry neighbors.
3. Build a Fence
Another way to stop the glass window reflection from damaging the next-door siding is by building a fence. Fences do not only provide privacy and security, but they can also protect your neighbor’s wall from warping. You just need to use a heatproof material, so it does not cause a fire.
4. Apply Perforated Window Screen
This is the best solution to stop solar heat from melting vinyl. Once it is applied to your windows, it refracts the light off; therefore, reducing glare. Additionally, it regulates the temperature outside your house as it spreads the heat evenly.
When buying a perforated window screen, make sure that you buy Siding Guard Window Film. Visit our website and find out how our products can protect your neighbor’s vinyl siding from melting.
