When buying replacement windows, it’s important to keep an eye on the NFRC label. NFRC stands for the National Fenestration Rating Council. They are a national council that rates the performance of windows. All manufacturers send their windows to the NFRC before selling them.
The NFRC label is helpful when comparing the energy-efficiency rate of your windows. They also provide you with energy performance ratings in four categories. As one of the leading providers of quality windows and doors, Renewal by Andersen® of New Jersey will explain each NFRC label you may see on your windows.
The U-Factor measures how well a window can keep heat from escaping from inside of a room. You can usually spot the U-Factor at the top-left score on the label, and the ratings range between 0.20 and 1.20. Homeowners, especially those who live in regions with very cold winters, should make sure their windows have a low U-Factor. The lower the U-Factor number, the better it traps heat.
The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient or SHGC rates how well a window can resist unwanted heat gain. Blocking the heat from getting inside the house is especially important during the summer season. The SHGC can be found at the top-right score on the label, and the ratings run between 0 and 1. The lower the SHGC, the better the windows block heat and the less you’ll spend on cooling.
The Visible Transmittance or VT measures how much daylight can come through your windows. The VT is the bottom-left score on the label, and the ratings range between 0 and 1. The higher the number, the more natural light you let inside your home. If you prefer a bright living room, consider installing sliding patio doors or windows with a high VT rating. This can also help you save money on artificial lighting.
The Air Leakage or AL rates how much air will enter a room through your windows. This is an optional rating, which means some manufacturers choose not to put it on their windows. If they are included, you may see them on the bottom-right score on the label, and the ratings usually run between 0.1 and 0.3. The lower the number, the fewer drafts you’ll experience indoors.
Are you looking for a professional window company to assist you with your needs? Put your trust in Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey. We offer many services, including the installation of French doors. Call us today at (866) 609-5033 or fill out our contact form to set an appointment. We proudly serve homeowners in Hillsborough and the surrounding New Jersey areas.
