top of page
Search

N70/38 vs. Solarban 70XL: A Low-E Glass Comparison for Energy Efficiency

Updated: Mar 18

N70/38 vs. Solarban 70XL: A Low-E Glass Comparison for Energy Efficiency

When selecting Low-E (low-emissivity) glass for your next architectural project or residence, understanding the differences between options like N70/38 (a private label of Solarban 60) and Solarban 70XL can make all the difference. Both are high-performance Low-E glass products designed to boost energy efficiency, but they cater to distinct needs with unique features. In this blog, we’ll explore N70/38 vs. Solarban 70XL, breaking down their specs, benefits, and ideal applications to help you choose the right glass for your building.


N70/38 vs. Solarban 70XL: Key Differences

Here’s a detailed look at how N70/38 and Solarban 70XL stack up:

Tecnoglass logo with the text "N70/38," featuring a circular pattern in shades of blue on a white background.
Tecnolass N70/38: High-performance low-emissivity glass solution for energy efficiency.

1. Solar Control Performance

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how much solar heat the glass lets in—lower numbers mean better heat rejection.

  • N70/38: Achieves an SHGC as low as 0.39 on clear glass, blocking 66% of solar energy. Pair it with tinted glass, and the SHGC can drop to 0.13, offering a Light to Solar Gain (LSG) ratio up to 1.79. It’s designed for year-round balance, reducing heat gain in summer while retaining some warmth in winter.

  • Solarban 70XL: Boasts an SHGC around 0.27-0.39 in a 1-inch insulating glass unit (IGU) with clear glass, rejecting up to 73% of solar heat. Its triple-silver coating provides top-tier solar control, outpacing most competitors.

For extreme heat rejection, Solarban 70XL takes the lead, while N70/38 shines with its adaptability.

2. Visible Light Transmittance (VLT)

VLT determines how much natural light enters your space—higher values brighten interiors.

  • N70/38: Offers a VLT of 70%, ensuring plenty of daylight while maintaining solar control. It’s a strong pick for well-lit, energy-efficient designs.

  • Solarban 70XL: Delivers a VLT of 60-64%, slightly lower but still impressive, balancing light with exceptional heat-blocking performance.

If brighter interiors are your goal, N70/38 edges out slightly; Solarban 70XL prioritizes solar control with ample light.

3. Insulation (U-Value)

The U-Value measures heat transfer—lower values indicate better insulation.

  • N70/38: Features a winter U-Value of 0.29 and a summer U-Value of 0.27, optimized for seasonal versatility and energy savings year-round.

  • Solarban 70XL: Typically achieves a U-Value of 0.28-0.29, excelling at minimizing heat loss in colder climates.

Both offer excellent insulation, but N70/38’s dual-season tuning gives it an edge in mixed climates.

4. Aesthetic and Coating Options

Appearance and customization options play a big role in architectural design.

  • N70/38: A double-silver coating (via Solarban 60 tech) provides a clear, neutral look. It can be coated on Starphire® ultra-clear glass or paired with Vitro’s tinted, Solarcool®, or Vistacool® glasses for added color and performance. It also supports silk-screen patterns and lamination.

  • Solarban 70XL: Its triple-silver coating delivers a transparent, color-neutral aesthetic. It pairs with Vitro’s wide range of tints, including Blues & Greens, bronze, or gray, for versatile design flexibility.

Solarban 70XL offers premium clarity, while N70/38 provides more customization options.

5. Applications

Where you use the glass matters.

  • N70/38: Ideal for residential and commercial projects needing balanced energy efficiency, natural light, and LEED certification potential. It’s great for protecting interiors like flooring or artwork.

  • Solarban 70XL: Suited for high-performance buildings in hot climates or large-scale commercial projects where maximum solar control is critical.

    Sunlight diagram showing rays hitting a transparent surface, with some rays passing through. Arrows represent light transmission and reflection.
    Illustration of a sun-blocking window, depicting how the glass reduces incoming sunlight to minimize heat and glare indoors.

N70/38 vs. Solarban 70XL: Which Should You Choose?

Your decision hinges on your project’s needs:

  • Choose N70/38 if:

    • You want a versatile, cost-effective option for year-round energy savings.

    • Brighter interiors with high VLT are a priority.

    • You need flexibility with tints, patterns, or lamination.

  • Choose Solarban 70XL if:

    • You’re in a hot climate requiring superior solar heat rejection.

    • You need the highest-performing Low-E glass on the market.

    • Clarity and consistency in large-scale applications are key.


Maintenance Tips for Low-E Glass

To maximize the lifespan of N70/38 or Solarban 70XL:

  • Use non-abrasive cleaners to preserve the coating.

  • Install in IGUs for enhanced insulation and performance.

  • Work with a professional to ensure proper fit and sealing.


Final Thoughts on N70/38 vs. Solarban 70XL

N70/38 and Solarban 70XL are both exceptional Low-E glass options, but they cater to different priorities. N70/38 offers a balanced solution with high light transmission and seasonal adaptability, making it perfect for diverse climates. Solarban 70XL, with its triple-silver technology, sets the standard for solar control and efficiency, ideal for sun-intensive environments.

Ready to enhance your building’s performance? Check out our selection of N70/38 and Solarban 70XL Low-E glass today and find the perfect fit for your project. Have questions? Drop them in the comments—we’re here to assist!


305-898-8151

 
 
 

Comentários

bottom of page