LuxWall Vacuum-Insulated Glass in Seattle
Herzog Glass was the first authorized LuxWall representative in Washington State. LuxWall’s Enthermal® vacuum-insulated glass delivers high thermal performance in a thin profile, so older buildings can replace inefficient glass while keeping their existing window frames.
The technology
What Is Vacuum-Insulated Glass?
Conventional insulated glass uses an air- or gas-filled space between panes. LuxWall Enthermal uses a narrow vacuum-sealed space that significantly reduces heat transfer through the glass. Because there is virtually no air within the vacuum cavity, convective heat transfer is greatly reduced. Low-emissivity coatings and the product’s construction also reduce conductive and radiant heat transfer.
This allows Enthermal to provide high insulating performance in a profile measuring approximately 8 to 12 millimeters thick. Depending on the selected configuration, it may fit into frames originally designed for much lower-performing glass. LuxWall currently reports insulating performance of up to R-18 for Enthermal and up to R-23 for Enthermal Plus® configurations.
The case
Why LuxWall Matters for Building Owners
Improve Performance Without Replacing the Façade
Replacing an entire commercial window or curtain wall system can be expensive and disruptive. It may require removal of framing, interior finishes, exterior components, and surrounding construction. For suitable buildings, LuxWall allows the existing frames to remain while the inefficient glass is replaced. This can substantially reduce the scope, cost, schedule, and disruption associated with improving the building envelope.
Reduce Heating and Cooling Demand
Older single-pane and early insulated-glass systems can allow substantial heat transfer through the building envelope. Replacing that glass with vacuum-insulated glass can reduce heating and cooling demand and lower the burden on the building’s HVAC system. Actual energy savings depend on the building, existing glass, window-to-wall ratio, mechanical systems, climate, occupancy, and operating conditions.
Improve Occupant Comfort
Poorly insulated glass can create cold interior surfaces, drafts, perimeter discomfort, and uneven temperatures. LuxWall’s thermal performance helps maintain a more consistent interior glass temperature. This can improve comfort near windows during cold weather and reduce heat gain through the glazing during warmer conditions.
Preserve Existing Frames and Architecture
Retaining the existing frames can be especially valuable for older, historic, and architecturally significant buildings. A glass-only retrofit may improve thermal performance while preserving the exterior appearance and original framing. The feasibility of this approach depends on the condition, configuration, and requirements of the existing window system.
Reduce Disruption
Replacing glass within existing frames generally requires less demolition than complete window or façade replacement. This can reduce disruption to tenants, interior finishes, building operations, and surrounding construction. Installation requirements and timelines vary by building and window configuration.
Where it fits
LuxWall Retrofit Applications
Office and Commercial Buildings
Older office buildings with single-pane or early double-pane glass may be strong candidates for glass-only energy retrofits. LuxWall can help building owners improve comfort and reduce energy demand while avoiding a complete façade replacement.
Multifamily Properties
Vacuum-insulated glass can improve perimeter comfort in apartments and condominiums while reducing disruption to residents. Retaining existing frames may allow upgrades to proceed with less interior demolition and shorter access periods.
Schools and Public Buildings
Schools, government buildings, libraries, and other public facilities often have aging window systems but limited budgets for complete façade replacement. A glass-only retrofit may offer a more focused way to improve building performance.
Healthcare Facilities
Hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare buildings benefit from glazing upgrades that limit construction activity and disruption. LuxWall may allow existing frames to remain while improving thermal performance and occupant comfort.
Historic and Landmark Buildings
Where original window framing contributes to a building’s historic appearance, vacuum-insulated glass may provide a path to improved energy performance while retaining significant architectural elements. Historic applications may require additional review by architects, preservation specialists, public agencies, or other authorities.
Custom Residential Projects
LuxWall is available for custom residential projects where thermal performance, comfort, noise reduction, or retention of existing frames is a priority. Suitability depends on the existing window construction and project requirements.
How it runs
The LuxWall Retrofit Process
Initial Building Review and Field Assessment
Herzog Glass begins by discussing the building, existing window system, project goals, and known performance concerns. Our team evaluates representative window conditions, including frame type, glazing-pocket dimensions, glass size, sealants, gaskets, drainage, access, and visible frame deterioration.
Product and System Evaluation
Herzog works with LuxWall, the building owner, design professionals, and other project participants to determine whether Enthermal or another configuration is appropriate.
Mockup or Pilot Installation
For larger projects, a mockup or limited pilot installation may be used to confirm fit, appearance, installation methods, and expected performance before proceeding with the complete building.
Product Coordination
Herzog coordinates the required LuxWall units based on the approved dimensions, configuration, coatings, and project requirements. LuxWall products are manufactured by LuxWall and are not fabricated at Herzog’s facility.
Installation
Our glaziers remove the existing glass, prepare the opening, and install the approved LuxWall units. Installation details depend on the existing frame and may include new gaskets, glazing tape, setting blocks, reducers, sealants, or other compatible components.
Inspection and Closeout
Completed installations are reviewed for fit, sealant continuity, visible condition, and required project documentation. Testing may also be performed when required by the project specifications.
Cost
Understanding Costs and Payback
The cost and financial return of a LuxWall retrofit depend on the existing window system, building energy use, glass area, access, installation conditions, utility costs, available incentives, and the alternative scope being considered. LuxWall currently reports estimated payback periods of approximately 3 to 10 years for glass-only retrofit applications. That range is not a guarantee for every building.
For a specific property, an energy and financial analysis can compare:
- Retaining the existing glass
- Replacing only the glass with LuxWall
- Installing conventional replacement glass
- Replacing the complete window or façade system
Alongside those options, the analysis weighs expected heating and cooling savings, installation and tenant disruption, available utility or tax incentives, planned HVAC upgrades, and long-term ownership objectives.
Coverage
LuxWall’s Limited Warranty
LuxWall Enthermal is supported by a 20-year limited product warranty. According to LuxWall, the warranty covers manufacturing defects, seal integrity, and vacuum performance, subject to the complete warranty terms and exclusions.
Enthermal Plus combines an Enthermal vacuum-insulated component with a conventional insulated glass assembly. Warranty coverage and duration may differ between the Enthermal component and the other parts of the complete assembly. Final warranty terms should be reviewed for the specific product and project configuration.
The performance and warranty language on this page is based on LuxWall’s current published information. LuxWall reports R-18 performance for Enthermal, an 8 to 12 mm profile, a 3 to 10 year estimated retrofit payback, and a 20-year limited warranty. LuxWall Enthermal specifications and LuxWall warranty FAQ.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can LuxWall be installed in existing window frames?
In many cases, yes. Enthermal’s thin profile allows it to fit within many existing glazing systems, including some frames originally designed for single-pane glass. Each building must be evaluated. Frame condition, pocket dimensions, drainage, glass size, structural requirements, and installation details determine whether glass-only replacement is practical.
Will LuxWall fit every single-pane window?
No. Although the product is designed for glass-only retrofits, not every existing frame or window condition is suitable. Herzog can assess the system and determine whether LuxWall is a practical option.
Does the existing frame need to be modified?
That depends on the frame. Some systems may accept Enthermal using new gaskets, reducers, sealants, or other glazing components. Other systems may require modification or may not be appropriate for glass-only replacement.
How does LuxWall compare with conventional insulated glass?
LuxWall reports insulation values of up to R-18 for Enthermal and up to R-23 for Enthermal Plus. Higher R-values mean better insulation and improved energy efficiency.
The performance of traditional double-pane and triple-pane windows can vary depending on how they’re made. When comparing options, it’s best to look at the performance of the entire window rather than just the glass.
How much energy can LuxWall save?
Savings vary by building. LuxWall reports that its products can substantially reduce energy loss through the glazing, but actual savings depend on existing conditions, mechanical systems, climate, occupancy, and other building characteristics. Project-specific energy modeling provides a more reliable estimate than a general percentage.
Does Herzog manufacture LuxWall glass?
No. LuxWall manufactures the product. As an authorized representative, Herzog evaluates applications, coordinates product selection and ordering, and installs the completed units.
Evaluate LuxWall for Your Building
LuxWall may provide a practical alternative to complete window or façade replacement for buildings with inefficient glazing and serviceable existing frames. Herzog Glass evaluates and installs LuxWall vacuum-insulated glass for commercial and custom residential projects throughout Seattle, the Puget Sound, and Washington State.