What Is a Good SHGC Rating for Your Window?

Replacing the windows on your home is an important decision. Knowing what type of window to choose and the ideal Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) rating can make a big difference in energy efficiency, cost savings and comfort levels. In this post, S.I.S. Exterior Renovations will explain the effect of SHGC ratings and which works best for your home.

Definition of SHGC Rating

The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how much solar radiation from sunlight enters a home or building through a window or skylight. It is expressed as a number between 0 and 1, with 0 meaning no solar radiation passes through the window, while 1 indicates that all incident solar energy passes through it. 

A good SHGC rating helps keep your house comfortable by reflecting away some of the sun’s rays before they enter your windows during summer months when temperatures rise quickly. This improves greater energy efficiency and saves you money on cooling costs over time.

Factors That Determine a Good SHGC Rating

Window material, climate and orientation all play a role in determining a good SHGC rating for your home. Windows with lower SHGC ratings are best suited to warmer climates, where the summers can be hot and sunny. For optimal efficiency, choose windows with Low-E glass, which has an invisible coating that helps reflect away heat during the summer months while allowing natural light into your home. 

Orientation also plays a part in choosing the right window. South-facing windows will receive more sunlight than east- or west-facing ones, so make sure you pick windows with an appropriate SHGC rating depending on their location in your house. 

Since Calgary has a mixed climate with warmer summers but cold winters, look for an SHGC rating of 0.30 or higher. This slightly higher rating will help your home stay energy-efficient and comfortable during the cold winter.

S.I.S Exterior Renovations can help you select the right windows and install them for you. We’ve helped numerous homes in your area find the best windows that save them money and improve indoor temperatures. Call us at (403) 640-1334 or fill out this contact form to get an estimate.