It can get confusing when doing the shopping of new windows. One of the companies discusses energy efficiency. The other one, is triple pane glass. There are some quotes with such numbers as U-factor and SHGC. Some are concerned with comfort and reduced noise. The fact is that the rating of the performance of a window can be important only when you are aware of what it is.
There is pressure on windows in Canada. Winters can be harsh. During summers, it may be hot and sunny. In most areas, it is common to have wind driven rain. What is a fantastic window in a display room might not work as well as it would do in your house.
Knowing window ratings will make you able to make fair comparisons of products. It also assists you to avoid paying an extra amount of money on things that you do not require. Most importantly it will assist you to select windows that will make your home warmer, quieter, and comfortable.
This guide outlines the major window performance ratings which Canadian homeowners are supposed to know and how to utilize them during acquisitions.
Why Window Performance Ratings Matter in Canada
The window performance ratings are to be used to estimate the performance of a window in terms of heat loss and heat gain air leakage and water resistance. These ratings make you know how the window will work in the actual situation.
There is a great variety of climate in Canada. A window, which is used in a mild coastal climate, might not suffice in the colder inland climates. That is why ratings matter. Their assistance is to select a window that will suit your location and style of your home.
Most homeowners desire more comfort and not only reduced energy bills. An effective rated window is able to lessen drafts. It is able to prevent cold spots around the glass. It is also able to minimize condensation during winter.
If you are researching High-performance windows for Canadian climates it is helpful to compare ratings because they show how different window systems perform beyond marketing claims.
Ratings also protect your investment. Windows are not cheap. If you choose based on looks alone you might end up with a product that struggles in Canadian weather. When you understand the numbers you can choose with confidence.
U-Factor and R-Value Explained in Simple Terms
U-factor is among the ratings of utmost significance to the Canadian homeowners. It quantifies the amount of heat that will go through the window. It is better insulated with a lower U-factor. That normally implies a reduction in heat loss during winter.
Consider U-factor as a heat rate of leakage. The smaller the number the better the window can retain warmth in your home.
There are those who also discuss R-value. U-factor is the reverse of R-value. The higher the R-value, the greater is the insulation. U-factor is more frequently used in rating and product labels in windows.
Comparison windows When comparing windows, do not compare a number of center of glass to a number of whole windows. Other companies have the best performance of glass advertised. However, the entire window has frame spacers and seals. In real life performance is wholesome of window.
Low U-factor in colder regions of Canada can enhance comfort and also cut down heating expenses. It is also capable of stopping the formation of frost around the sides of the glass.
U-factor should include high on your checklist in case you want to have a warmer home during winter.
SHGC and Why Solar Heat Gain Can Help or Hurt
SHGC is an acronym of Solar Heat Gain Coefficient. It is a measure of the amount of heat that permeates the window of your home due to sunlight. The rating represents a figure between 0 and 1.
A greater SHGC implies greater entry of solar energy. The lower SHGC implies reduction of the solar heat inside.
SHGC in Canada can work to your advantage as well as be a danger basing on your residence and your location. Free heat can be done by winter sunlight. Your space can be warmed by having south facing windows that have a higher SHGC.
During summer excessive solar heat may render rooms uncomfortable. It has the potential of raising cooling expenses. It may also lead to glare as well as fade furniture with time.
When you have big windows, which are exposed to strong sun, you will wish to have a lower SHGC. In case you have a house that is generally cold, and you would like to get passive heat, you might need to have a higher SHGC in some places.
That is the reason why the best window selection is not necessarily a single number. It is also determined by your layout and exposure to the sun.
By getting a good window supplier, you can balance U-factor and SHGC hence enjoy comfort throughout the year.
Air Leakage Ratings and Draft Comfort
Draughts force many homeowners to replace windows. Even the furnace is running, drafts render the room cold. Here, the air leakage ratings become important.
Air leakage is a measure of the ability of the window assembly to allow air to pass through it. Reduced air leakage translates to a tight window. A narrow window creates less draft and is more comfortable.
Energy bills are also influenced by air leakages. Although the glass may be insulated, a leaky window admits the cold air and expels warm air. That makes your heating system work more.
Air leakage may also be influenced by the style of the window. Sealing of windows will tend to be the best since it is fixed and it does not open. Casement windows are usually airtight since they tighten on locking. Sliding windows may be more leaky since they have track systems.
The issue of air leakage is not a product issue. Installation matters too. Even a window that has a great rating may end up being drafty in case it is fitted badly.
When comparing windows query about the performance of air leakage and the manner in which the company seals the installation. Comfort depends on both.
Water Resistance and Structural Ratings for Canadian Weather
Canada gets more than cold. There are also a lot of areas that experience heavy rain wind storms and freeze thaw cycles. This is why it is important to know how resistant to water a product is.
Water penetration rates determine the ability of a window to prevent the use of water through pressure. This is important when you are residing in a windy region or when your house is exposed to a driving rain.
Structural ratings are the ratings that help to determine the capacity of window to withstand the wind load. Powerful winds may blow against huge window coverings. The frame may bend in case it is weak. In the long run that may cause seal failures and leakages.
These ratings are particularly significant to tall houses, vast picture windows and stormy regions. They are also significant in coastal areas whereby wind and rain are fixed.
Most of the home owners are just concerned of the energy efficiency and completely overlook the issue of water performance. Water leaks however can do great harm. They may cause mold and decay at the opened window.
Your home should be enclosed in a window that prevents loss of heat and intrusion of weather.
How to Use Ratings When Comparing Window Quotes
The use of window ratings is most helpful when one wants to compare products of the same nature. Some hints will assist you to make more decisions.
Get whole window performance numbers first. This consists of the frame and the glass. Do not use solely center of glass values.
Second compare windows according to your priorities. When the comfort in winter is the primary focus, the emphasis should be on U-Factor and air leakage. Summer overheating is also a problem that should be paid attention to SHGC.
Third keep in mind the style of window. The use of a fixed window can be superior to an opening window. Ventilation may be required, however. Balance performance and function.
Fourth enquire about triple pane. Triple pane makes much of Canada more comfortable and eliminates cold spots. It might be more expensive but it usually is more comfortable in everyday life.
Fifth do not forget installation. It can install a good product, and then it fails. Enquire about sealing techniques insulation of the frame and warranty.
Lastly, there is the long term value. A window of slightly higher price and better ratings could save money in the long run and will add to the comfort on a daily basis.
Ratings also assist you to compare beyond brand and sales talk. They provide you with true data to rely upon.
Final Thought
The performance ratings of windows may seem technical but it should be learned. Canada windows have to deal with cold winters, hot summers wind and moisture. The right ratings assist you in the selection of windows that are comfortable and durable.
Pay attention to such critical figures as U-factor SHGC air leakage and water resistance. Compare whole window performance not only glass. And do not forget that quality of installation is as important as product itself.
