Question 1

What is U Factor?

Accepted Answer

U Factor measures thermal insulation. It indicates how easy it is for heat to flow through the window. In this case, the lower the U Factor, the better a window insulates against heat flow and the better its thermal performance.

Question 2

What is R Factor?

Accepted Answer

R Factor also measures thermal insulation. However, instead of measuring how easy heat can flow through the window, R Factor measures the window’s ability to resist heat flow. The higher the R Factor, the better a window is able to stand up against heat flow and the better its thermal performance. R Factor and U Factor work together to determine a window’s thermal insulation.

Question 3

What is Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)?

Accepted Answer

The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient measures the amount of solar radiation a window permits to pass through. Essentially, it measures how much the sun is able to heat your home by shining through the windows. The lower the SHGC, the better a window protects your home from solar heat.

Based on your climate, you may want a window with a higher SHGC rating to allow solar heat to help warm your home in the winter. In Central Pennsylvania, we have hot summers and cold winters, so a high-performance window featuring Low E glass and a mid-range SHGC may be a better fit and provide better heating and cooling protection for your home.

Question 4

What is Visible Transmittance (VT)?

Accepted Answer

Visible Transmittance measures how much visible light the window allows to pass through. Ultraviolet and infrared light cause damage over time and increase heat. So blocking these types of light, while allowing visible light into a room enhances a window’s overall thermal performance. VT also gives you a good idea of how well a window will provide light into a room.

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