What Do U-Value and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient Mean for Your Home
When discussing energy efficiency, two key factors influence the performance of your windows and doors. These are U-Value and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC).
These values show how much heat moves through your windows. They also indicate how well your windows control solar radiation entering your home.
At upvc.co.za, we make and supply high-quality uPVC windows and doors. These products help improve energy efficiency, lower energy use, and reduce environmental impact. Our products provide superior insulation, minimize thermal transmittance, and enhance indoor comfort. Understanding these ratings will help you make the best choice for your property.
What is U-Value?
U-Value measures how well a window or door prevents heat flow and heat loss. It indicates how much thermal energy escapes through the glass and frame.
- Lower U-Value = Better insulation (less heat transfer, more energy saving).
- Higher U-Value = Poor insulation (more heat escapes, higher energy consumption).
Why Does U-Value Matter?
If you’ve ever felt a cold draft near a window in winter, it’s likely due to poor insulation and high thermal transmittance. Windows with a low U-Value retain indoor warmth, reducing the need for artificial heating and lowering electricity costs.
Why uPVC Windows from upvc.co.za Have a Low U-Value
Unlike other building materials such as aluminium, which is a conductor of heat, uPVC is a natural insulator. When used with double glazing, uPVC windows from upvc.co.za have much lower U-Values. This helps reduce heat flow. It keeps your home warm in winter and cool in summer.
What is Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)?
SHGC rating measures how much solar radiation and amounts of heat enter through a window.
- Higher SHGC = More heat enters (useful in cold climates for passive heating).
- Lower SHGC = Less heat enters (ideal for warm climates to prevent overheating).
Why Does SHGC Matter?
If too much sunlight enters through your windows, your home heats up quickly, forcing your cooling system to work harder. This increases energy consumption and electricity costs.
A low SHGC helps keep indoor temperatures comfortable. It blocks too much heat but still lets in natural light. This means your space can stay bright without getting too hot.
However, in cooler areas, a slightly higher SHGC can be beneficial as it allows some passive solar heating, reducing the need for artificial heating.
How upvc.co.za Optimizes U-Value and SHGC for South Africa
At upvc.co.za, we design uPVC windows and doors that balance U-Value and SHGC to ensure optimal performance across different building elements and climates.
Warm Climates (e.g., Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria):
- Low SHGC to block heat and keep your home cool.
- Low U-value to prevent cold air from escaping.
Cooler Climates (e.g., Cape Town, high-altitude areas):
- Moderate SHGC to allow some heat gain in winter.
- Low U-Value to retain warmth indoors.
Our Expertly Designed uPVC Ranges
At upvc.co.za, we offer two specialized uPVC window and door ranges to suit different energy needs:
1. EcoLine (Affordable, Energy-Efficient Windows & Doors)
- Ideal for budget-conscious homeowners looking for a cost-effective solution.
- Available in single glazing or double glazing for improved insulation.
- Provides better thermal transmittance than aluminium, reducing energy consumption.
The Ecoline Single Glazing has a U-value estimated at 4,06 and SHGC estimated at 0.41, meaning it allows more heat transfer, making it ideal for mild climates. The Ecoline Double Glazing has a U-value estimated at 2,71 and SHGC estimated at 0.34, offering better insulation, reducing heat loss in winter and keeping interiors cooler in summer.
2. UltraLine (High-Performance Energy Saving Windows & Doors)
- Features premium double glazing for superior energy efficiency.
- Optimized SHGC to minimise amounts of heat entering your home.
- Designed to enhance indoor comfort, lower heat transfer, and reduce reliance on heating and cooling systems.
The Ultraline Single Glazing has a U-value estimated at 4,06 and SHGC estimated at 0.41, meaning it allows more heat transfer, making it ideal for mild climates. The Ultraline Double Glazing has a U-value estimated at 2,71 and SHGC estimated at 0.34, offering better insulation, reducing heat loss in winter and keeping interiors cooler in summer.
Why Choose upvc.co.za for Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors?
At upvc.co.za, we are experts in energy-efficient window and door solutions. Our products are designed to:
Reduce heat flow with low U-Values, minimising thermal transmittance.
Optimize SHGC, ensuring the right amounts of solar radiation enter your home.
Use superior building materials that insulate better than aluminium.
Lower energy consumption by reducing the need for heating and cooling.
Minimise environmental impact with durable, long-lasting uPVC solutions.
Offer cost-effective, energy-saving solutions for South African homeowners.
If you’re looking for the best energy-efficient windows and doors, our uPVC solutions at upvc.co.za provide the perfect balance of insulation and solar heat control.
📞 Contact us today to find the best uPVC option for your home!
You can read more about the benefits of Energy Efficient Windows here.
