Sometimes, when you look for replacement casement or double-hung windows, you’ll notice that they have ratings showing their energy efficiency or how they’re effective in retaining heat. One of these ratings measures the amount of solar radiation that can pass through them, which is also known as the solar heat gain coefficient. To understand how this needs to be considered when choosing good replacement windows, here’s what Renewal by Andersen® of Atlanta has to say:
Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) is essentially a rating with a ratio where one equals the maximum amount of solar heat allowed through a window, and zero equals the least amount possible allowed through. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) takes care of the procedure for testing and assigning SHGC ratings to certain products. The NFRC is a non-profit organization that tests, certifies, and labels windows, doors, and skylights based on their energy performance ratings.
Since SHGC ratings are essentially the fraction of solar radiation admitted through a window, door, or skylight, they measure how much sunlight is transmitted directly and/or absorbed, and subsequently released as heat inside a home. For instance, double hung and casement windows that have low SHGC ratings mean they transmit less solar heat and have greater shading ability. They’re also more effective at reducing cooling loads during the summer months since they can block heat gain from the sun.
Even window and door products that have high SHGC ratings are also effective during the winter months, as they can collect more solar heat. What you choose will highly depend on your home’s climate, orientation and external shading, so make sure to consult with a trusted window installer who can help you choose the most appropriate SHGC rating for your home’s windows.
As your best expert for windows installation, Renewal by Andersen of Atlanta always gets the job done right. Get in touch with us today at (866) 609-5033 or fill out our online appointment form! We serve customers in and around Atlanta.
