Glass Spandrel Energy Efficiency

Understanding Glass Spandrel Energy Efficiency

As building owners and architects seek to reduce the environmental impact of their constructions, the importance of energy efficiency has become increasingly prominent. One crucial aspect of energy efficiency in building design is the use of glass spandrel, a type of glass that has been made opaque and glazed in wall areas covering structural columns, floors, walls, or other building elements meant to be concealed from outside view.

What is Glass Spandrel Energy Efficiency?

Spandrel glass, particularly when used as part of an insulated glass unit (IGU) and/or with insulation behind it, can contribute to a building's overall thermal performance by reducing heat transfer through the non-vision areas, thereby improving energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Benefits of Spandrel Glass Energy Efficiency

• Does not allow solar radiation to enter the building, reducing heat gain during warm weather and the need for cooling systems

• Achieves better results when state of the art insulation materials are used combined with modern frames offering higher energy efficiency

• Has great aesthetic appeal, allowing for uniform exterior appearance without transparency

• Ideal for building elements that are meant to be hidden, such as structural columns or floors

Types of Spandrel Glass

• Insulated Spandrel Glass: excellent at reducing heat transfer, it is an attractive option for improving energy efficiency

• Switchable Glass: dynamic control of light and privacy by altering transparency with electric current