Which type of glass is specifically designed to provide thermal insulation?

Low-E glass, or low-emissivity glass, is specifically designed to provide thermal insulation by reflecting heat while allowing light to pass through. It has a special metallic coating that reflects infrared radiation, which helps to keep buildings cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This enhances energy efficiency by reducing the amount of heating and cooling needed, thus lowering energy costs.

In contrast, annealed glass does not have any special coatings or treatments for insulation, and while tempered glass is stronger and shatter-resistant, it does not offer improved thermal performance. Frosted glass primarily serves aesthetic purposes and privacy, not thermal insulation. Therefore, low-E glass stands out as the choice specifically engineered for enhancing thermal insulation in glazing applications.