Cardinal Glass: Leading Innovator in High-Performance Window Glass
At Optimal Windows, located in Plano, Texas, we pride ourselves on being the professional authority in window replacement and FGIA Certified installations. A key component of our high-performance windows is the glass we use, and Cardinal Glass stands out as a leader in the industry. In this blog, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Cardinal Glass, including their innovative products, advanced technologies, and commitment to quality and sustainability.
History and Background of Cardinal Glass
Origins and Growth
Cardinal Glass Industries, founded in 1962, has grown to become a premier name in glass manufacturing. Headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, Cardinal Glass operates numerous manufacturing facilities across the United States. The company has built its reputation on innovation, quality, and a steadfast commitment to advancing the performance of glass products.
Commitment to Innovation
From the start, Cardinal Glass has focused on developing advanced technologies to enhance the performance of their glass products. This dedication to research and development has led to numerous breakthroughs in energy efficiency and durability. Cardinal Glass’s continuous investment in cutting-edge technology ensures they remain at the forefront of the industry.
Cardinal Glass Product Offerings
Low-E Glass
One of their most renowned products is their Low-E (low-emissivity) glass, designed to improve the energy efficiency of windows by reflecting infrared light and minimizing heat transfer. Cardinal offers several types of Low-E coatings, including:
- LoĒ³-366: This triple-layer coating blocks solar gain, reflects heat, and lets light in, outperforming many other glass types and providing excellent energy efficiency and comfort year-round. LoĒ³-366 is known for its ability to provide substantial energy savings, unmatched visibility, and aesthetics.
- LoĒ³-340: Provides superior glare and solar control, making it ideal for regions with high sun exposure. This coating is perfect for homes in sunny climates as it reduces glare without compromising on light transmittance.
- LoĒ²-272 and LoĒ²-270: These coatings offer a balance between light transmittance and solar control, perfect for various climates. They provide moderate solar control while ensuring that homes receive ample natural light.
Insulating Glass Units (IGUs) by Cardinal Glass
Cardinal Glass is a leader in the production of insulating glass units (IGUs), which consist of two or more glass panes separated by a spacer and sealed to form a single unit. These units are designed to improve thermal performance and reduce noise. Cardinal’s IGUs include advanced spacers and gas fills like argon or krypton to enhance insulation.
Advanced Spacers from Cardinal Glass
Cardinal Glass uses high-performance spacers in their IGUs to reduce thermal bridging and improve the overall insulation properties of the windows. Notable spacer technologies include:
XL Edge® Spacer
- Durability and Performance: Introduced in 1993, the XL Edge spacer set the benchmark for low failure rates and high performance. It features a durable stainless steel construction that significantly reduces thermal bridging, improving the overall insulation properties of the IGU.
- Warranty: This spacer system comes with a 20-year warranty, reflecting its reliability and long-term performance.
Endur® Spacer
- Industry-Leading Seal: The Endur spacer boasts the lowest seal failure rate in the industry, with only 0.2% expected failure after 20 years. Made from stainless steel, it combines durability with thermal efficiency, ensuring that the IGU remains sealed and effective over a long period.
- Thermal Efficiency: The Endur spacer reduces heat transfer, helping to maintain a consistent indoor temperature and reducing energy costs.
Custom Glass Solutions
In addition to standard products, Cardinal Glass provides custom solutions tailored to specific architectural and design needs. Their custom glass offerings include specialty shapes, sizes, and coatings, ensuring that customers get the perfect glass for their projects.
Additional Glass Technologies from Cardinal Glass
- Neat+: A naturally cleaner glass technology that uses a coating to break down organic materials on the glass surface, making it easier to clean and maintain. This technology reduces the need for frequent cleaning and ensures that windows remain clear and pristine for longer periods.
- Quad LoĒ-452+: A high-performance Low-E coating that provides superior insulation and comfort, ideal for extreme climates. This advanced coating offers four layers of protection, enhancing the thermal performance of windows and making them suitable for both hot and cold environments.
Environmental Commitment
Cardinal Glass is dedicated to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of their operations. The company continuously seeks ways to improve energy efficiency in their manufacturing processes and products. By producing high-performance glass that reduces energy consumption in homes and buildings, Cardinal Glass contributes to a more sustainable future. Their commitment to environmental responsibility is reflected in their adherence to stringent environmental standards and certifications.
Why Choose Cardinal Glass?
Superior Quality and Performance
Their commitment to quality and performance is what makes their products the best in the market. Whether you need energy-efficient windows, sound reduction, or UV protection, Cardinal Glass provides solutions that meet and exceed industry standards. Their products are designed to withstand the harshest conditions while maintaining their aesthetic appeal and functional integrity.
Innovation and Customization
With a focus on innovation, Cardinal Glass continually develops new technologies and products to meet the evolving needs of the market. Their ability to customize glass solutions ensures that customers get exactly what they need for their specific applications. This flexibility allows them to cater to a wide range of projects, from residential homes to large commercial buildings.
Trusted Partner
Cardinal Glass is a trusted partner for window manufacturers and installers. Their reputation for reliability, quality, and customer service makes them a preferred choice for high-performance glass products. At Optimal Windows, we value our partnership with Cardinal Glass because it allows us to provide our customers with the best possible window solutions.
How Cardinal Glass Benefits Homeowners
Energy Efficiency
Cardinal Glass products, particularly their Low-E glass coatings, significantly enhance the energy efficiency of windows. By reflecting infrared light and reducing heat transfer, these windows help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the need for heating and cooling. This leads to lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment.
UV Protection
Cardinal’s Low-E glass coatings also provide excellent UV protection. By blocking up to 95% of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, these windows protect your home’s interior from fading and damage. This is particularly beneficial for preserving the color and condition of your furniture, carpets, and curtains.
Noise Reduction
The multiple layers of glass and gas fills in Cardinal’s IGUs provide superior sound insulation. This reduces outside noise, creating a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment. Homeowners living in busy or noisy areas will especially appreciate the tranquility that Cardinal Glass windows bring to their homes.
Durability and Longevity
Cardinal Glass products are built to last. Their advanced spacer systems and durable sealants ensure that windows remain airtight and watertight for many years. This longevity reduces the need for frequent replacements and repairs, providing homeowners with long-term value and peace of mind.
Why Optimal Windows Chooses Cardinal Glass
At Optimal Windows, we understand that the quality of the glass in your windows is crucial for performance and durability. That’s why we choose Cardinal Glass for our window installations. Their products meet our high standards for energy efficiency, durability, and aesthetics. Here’s why we trust Cardinal Glass:
- Industry Leadership: Cardinal Glass is a recognized leader in the glass manufacturing industry, known for their innovation and quality.
- Comprehensive Product Range: Their extensive range of products allows us to find the perfect solution for every residential window replacement project.
- Commitment to Excellence: Cardinal Glass’s dedication to quality and performance aligns with our commitment to providing the best window solutions to our customers.
Conclusion
Cardinal Glass Industries stands out as a leader in the glass manufacturing industry due to their innovative products, commitment to quality, and dedication to sustainability. At Optimal Windows, we are proud to use their glass for all of our window offerings, ensuring that our customers receive the best in energy efficiency, durability, and overall performance.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can enhance your home’s windows and contribute to a more comfortable, energy-efficient living environment.
