About the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient of Your New Windows

 

There are many things to consider when updating your windows. Apart from its color, type and material used, you must also see to it that it is energy-efficient. Renewal by Andersen® of San Francisco offers custom windows that take into account this important aspect.

A key component in any window replacement project is learning about the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) of your new window.

About SHGC

SHGC is described as the amount of solar radiation that passes through a certain material. In the case of your new windows, it is the quantity of ultraviolet (UV) rays that are able to penetrate the framing material and glass.

Your windows do their job of bringing in natural light. However, only a definite amount of energy from the sun should enter your home. When it becomes unusually hot inside your room, it could mean that your window allows more UV rays than it should. This can affect your usage of cooling systems and your overall energy consumption.

Such problems can be alleviated with an energy-efficient window. Renewal by Andersen of San Francisco has window replacement products that have low SHGC ratings.

How SHGC Is Measured

The metric for measuring the SHGC of windows was introduced by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). According to the organization, a SHGC rating is measured with a rating between 0 and 1, with 1 being the highest and 0 the lowest. Essentially, a lower SHGC rating means that the window is better at blocking unwanted heat coming from the sun.

SHGC ratings vary across the United States. Given our different climate zones, make it a point to look for a new window that is best suited for the weather conditions in your area. In San Francisco, the SHGC rating of replacement windows should be 0.40 or less.

For your windows replacement needs, consult Renewal by Andersen of San Francisco. We can offer you a variety of energy-efficient options for your new windows, including our Fibrex® composite framing material. Call us at (866) 609-5033, or fill out our contact form. We serve residents of San Francisco and other parts of the Bay Area region.