U Factor Windows And Doors

The lower the u factor the better the window insulates.

U factor windows and doors.

The u factor will approach the very low 0 15 point if there is a gas such as argon or krypton between the layers of glass glazing. Look for a low u factor. For windows skylights and glass doors a u factor may refer to just the glass or glazing alone. For most energy efficient windows the whole window u factor is higher than the center of glass u factor.

The range is from 0 to 1. High performance double pane windows can have u factors of 0 30 or lower while some triple pane windows can achieve u factors as low as 0 15. Improved education and awareness of the cost of heating and cooling that escapes from poorly insulated components and glass panes have led to window and door manufacturers developing energy efficient windows and doors typically labeled r5 u 2 meaning the glass is the most energy efficient possible at a 5 rating and the window or door with all. It s usually expressed in units of btu hr ft2 of.

The nfrc is a non profit group that administers a uniform independent rating and labeling system for the energy efficiency of building components including windows doors skylights and attachment products. U factor measures the rate of heat transfer and tells you how well the window insulates. A u factor rating generally refers to the entire window. Look for a low shgc in a climate that mainly requires cooling and a high shgc in a climate that requires heating.

It s a particularly important measure for climates with colder winters. Shgc measures how well a product keeps out solar heat. The values for u factor range between 0 25 and 1 25. At u factor window door we utilize the most trusted windows doors and skylights on the market.

Double paned windows may have a u factor at or below 0 30. The u factor rating system was devised by the national fenestration rating council nfrc. The lower the u factor the better the resistance to heat flow in and out of the window. Low u factors are most important in heating dominated climates although they are also beneficial.

Lower numbers indicate greater insulating capabilities. The range is from 0 00 2 00. The label shows the solar heat gain coefficient shgc and u factor for the door. Whether you are looking for windows doors or skylights we have the best products for you and your home.

We pride ourselves on quality craftsmanship reliability and our excellent reputation. Gases are heavier than air and therefore provide insulation resistance to air. What is the best r value for windows and doors. U factor is the rate at which a window door or skylight conducts non solar heat flow.

How to determine u factor for windows. Epa requires that the u factor for energy star labeled products is certified and listed on the product label. Nfrc u factor ratings however represent the entire window performance including frame and spacer material. Triple glazed windows may have a u factor as low as 0 15.

This means you get a better quality window. The optimal measure for your window will depend on your location.