Windows should meet certain energy efficiency requirements, whether they are for a home or a business. Some of the major considerations that you have to make when selecting windows are their U-Value and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC).
To help you distinguish between these two types of ratings, trusted window contractor and window expert Polar Bear Exterior Solutions shares more information below.
SHGC
SHGC measures how much solar radiation passes through a window. In a cool climate, windows with a high SHGC rating allow more solar radiation to pass through, resulting in free solar heating for your home. The choice of glass has a significant impact on the SHGC rating of a window, so make sure to inquire about the glass that will be used for your new windows. Generally, windows with higher SHGC ratings also have a higher U-value. If you wish to take advantage of natural heating, you might have to do so at the expense of good insulation.
U-VALUE
The U-value of a window measures the amount of heat that can be transferred through its glass. The lower the U-value, the better the insulation properties of the window. Furthermore, a lower U-value means that a window can do a better job of keeping the heat or cold out. In general, windows with good insulation properties can help improve your home’s indoor comfort, regardless of your local climate. Polar Bear windows have energy-saving capabilities, and they can be customized to meet your specific requirements for energy efficiency.
The Best SHGC Rating and U-Value
When it comes to the best SHGC rating, you should look for a rating of 0.25 or less for optimal energy performance and lower cooling costs. But if you want your home to feel warmer, you should choose an SHGC rating between 0.35-0.60 to let more heat from the sun enter your home. In areas that don’t have a lot of shade and are usually warmer, the lowest possible SHGC ratings will be the most beneficial and ideal.
Upgrade your windows with Polar Bear Exterior Solutions, your reliable window and siding contractor. You can trust us to install your windows properly and provide first-rate services all year round. Call us at (425) 290-5579 or fill out our contact form to book an appointment. We serve clients in Seattle and the surrounding areas.