Understanding Your Window Ratings!

U-Factor

U-factor measures how well a product prevents heat from escaping. The rate of heat loss is indicated in terms of the U-factor (U-value) of a window assembly. U-Factor ratings generally fall between 0.20 and 1.20. The lower the U-value, the greater a window's resistance to heat flow and the better its insulating value.

So this window is way good!! =) (.30 US measurement)

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how well a product blocks heat caused by sunlight. The SHGC is the fraction of incident solar radiation admitted through a window (both directly transmitted and absorbed) and subsequently released inward. SHGC is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The lower a window's solar heat gain coefficient, the less solar heat it transmits in the house.

Visible Transmittance

Visible Transmittance (VT) measures how much light comes through a product. The visible transmittance is an optical property that indicates the amount of visible light transmitted. VT is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The higher the VT, the more light is transmitted.

So far it would seem this window lets in pretty good light and yet still saves energy. I am really happy about the energy thing! =)

STC Rating

This is the sound proof ratings. It starts at 26 and goes to 54 (being sound proof). 26-28 is the for normal range single pane glass (average of 27) and the range for double pane glass is 26-33 (with an average of 28).

Personally if the average of double pane glass is 28, I'm good with 26 for a single. I wouldn't think it would be that much difference. lol