The Important Energy Ratings On Replacement Windows

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One of the most important things you will want to concentrate on when you are getting replacement windows in Frisco, TX is the ratings labels on those windows. You can tell a lot about the windows based on the labels. In fact, everything you need to know about their efficiency and how they perform will be placed on that label. The National Fenestration Rating Council came up with a way for consumers to figure out just how well each window performs so they can meet their needs in whatever climate they have around them. Here are a few things you will want to understand about the ratings, so you are able to get what you need.

The U-Factor

This rating is one of the most important ones on the label. It measures the thermal transmission on the material or the heat transfer. The ratings usually fall between 0.2 and 1.2 and you will want to see a lower number because that means it is more efficient. You will be able to compare the labels to one another by looking at that number first. If you see one with a high number and another with a low number, the lower one is the better product.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient

This is similar to the U-factor and ranged from 0 to 1. The lower the number, again, the better the window. This rating measures the solar heat that comes through the windows. Higher ratings aren’t always bad, though, because, in cooler climates, some homeowners like to have the heat of the sun come in so they can save on heating costs.

Visible Transmittance

This number will show you how much natural light will come through the windows. Windows that insulate well sometimes block more light, or at least they did in the past. The ratings here are between 0 and 1 as well and the higher the number, the more light will come through. Even if there is more light, it doesn’t mean you will have more heat in the home.

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Air Leakage

This rating is pretty obvious in meaning. It means how much air will pass through the window. You want it to be very little, but every window is going to let at least some air through. You will see numbers from 0.1 to 0.3. If you live in a windy area, having a low air leakage rating is even more important.

There are other things that are going to go into your decision for replacement windows in Frisco, TX, like your budget, the styles, and other needs. If you have a certain cost parameter in mind and other details you want to include, it’s important to tell the professionals at Southwest Door & Window so they can help you line everything up and get just what you want for your project. We’re here to give you a free consultation any time you want and help you figure out the details that will be the best for your home.