If you’re planning a window replacement project, one important thing that you should consider is the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) rating of your new windows. SHGC ratings basically tell you how effective the windows are in terms of protecting your interior against outdoor heat. The ideal SHGC rating for windows may vary depending on your location and local climate.
The National Fenestration Rating Council® (NFRC) is the organization responsible for tagging windows with appropriate SHGC ratings. A series of tests is done to evaluate window products and determine their SHGC ratings. Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) use the SHGC ratings to assess the energy efficiency of windows before they issue certifications and consider such products for federal incentive and rebate programs.
Consumers benefit greatly from SHGC ratings since these help them in making informed decisions and ensures that they are selecting the right windows for their homes. You can find the SHGC ratings of windows on product labels. So, make sure to check these labels when shopping for new windows.
For your window replacement project, make sure to look for window options that are suitable for your climate. In southern climates, where homes are highly dependent on cooling, it’s best to install windows with an SHGC rating of not more than 0.27. For the mixed climates of the South and central regions, windows should have an SHGC rating that is lower than 0.30.
For the mixed climates of the North and Midwest, an SHGC rating lower than 0.40 is recommended. For colder climates of the North, U-factor should be considered more than the SHGC rating. But if air conditioning is used from time to time, it’s recommended for windows to have an SHGC rating of not more than 0.40. If no air conditioning is used at all, windows with SHGC ratings of 0.30 to 0.60 are OK.
Renewal by Andersen® of San Francisco is a reputable company specializing in windows and doors. Let us know about your windows replacement needs, and we’ll make sure to provide you with suitable options. Call us at (866) 609-5033, or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate. We serve customers in San Francisco, CA, and the surrounding areas.
