When shopping for windows or doors, you may have come across the term “solar heat gain coefficient” or “SHGC”. But what exactly is SHGC, and how does it impact the energy efficiency of your home?

The solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) is a measure of how much solar radiation is transmitted through a window or door. It represents the fraction of solar energy that enters your home through the glass, and is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. A lower SHGC means that less solar heat is transmitted through the glass, which can help keep your home cooler in the summer.

SHGC takes into account both the direct and indirect solar radiation that enters your home through the glass. Direct solar radiation is the heat and light that comes directly from the sun, while indirect solar radiation is the heat that is reflected off surrounding surfaces and enters your home through the glass.

The SHGC of a window or door can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of glass, the type of frame, the size and orientation of the window or door, and the local climate.

In warm, sunny climates, it’s important to choose windows and doors with a low SHGC to minimize the amount of solar heat gain in your home. In cooler, northern climates, a higher SHGC may be desirable to help heat your home in the winter.

At Window Door Specialists, we offer a wide selection of windows and doors with varying SHGC ratings to help you choose the right product for your home and climate. Our knowledgeable staff can help you understand the SHGC ratings of our products and how they can impact the energy efficiency and comfort of your home. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.