An In-Depth Look at Solar Heat Gain Coefficient

A hand holds a smartphone displaying an energy efficiency chart, labeled A to G with colors from green to red. The background shows a modern living room.

A lot of factors must be considered when updating your current window units. In addition to choosing your preferred style, frame material and exterior and interior finish, you must also make sure the units can ensure energy efficiency for your home. One of the key components you need to look at is the windows’ solar heat gain coefficient.

A&A Services Home Improvement, the home of your local window replacement and roof repair pros, discusses what you need to know about this important window rating.

About SHGC

The term “solar heat gain” refers to the increase in thermal energy of a space, object or structure as it absorbs incident solar radiation. In the context of windows, it’s the amount of energy such units allow to enter your home.

Simply put, inefficient windows transmit all of the solar heat coming from the sun into your home, causing unnecessary warmth indoors. This, in turn, results in higher energy consumption because you have to rely more on your HVAC system for comfort. Such problems can be alleviated with energy-efficient window units. Our exterior home improvement pros, who also tackle roof repair and siding replacement projects, install windows manufactured by the top industry brands.

How SHGC Is Measured

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) introduced the SHGC as a metric for measuring the energy efficiency of windows and other building materials. The rating is set between 0 and 1, with the former indicating the least amount of solar heat gain that can come through a window. The lower the rating, the better the unit is at blocking unwanted heat.

Note that SHGC ratings vary across the United States. Given the different climate zones, it’s necessary to check the information labels on each window to see if it’s well-suited for the weather conditions in your area. In our local area, the SHGC rating of replacement windows falls within the 0.32 and 0.42 range.

For your roof repair or window replacement needs, turn to A&A Services Home Improvement. When you work with us, you’re working with a company that stands behind their work by offering a 100% installation satisfaction guarantee. Call (978) 219-2343 or fill out our contact form to request an estimate. Our MA service areas include Salem, Peabody, and Andover.

Tags: roof repair, roof replacement, roofing contractors

Visit our Specials Page for Offers

+ Flexible Financing Options

Outstanding Reviews

“A & A Services installed new sliding doors and removed the old ones. I am so pleased with their professionalism, knowledge, and friendly manner. Everything from start to finish was handled perfectly - there was never a concern about anything. I can certainly recommend A & A services for quality work.”

Susan R.

“I chose A&A Services for a roof replacement. Rick came out to provide the initial estimate and from then on guided me through the whole process. He was great to work with. No pressure at any time and I was notified every step of the way. No surprises. Aurel and the roofing crew were great too! My roof looks beautiful and more importantly, my house is dry inside! Highly recommend!!”

Teresa S.

“Very pleased with recently installed storm door by A&A Services. Ed came right out and went over options, pricing & explained process & timeline. Installation was even able to be moved up and completed ahead of schedule! Installer was excellent. Professional, trustworthy service every time with this company. Thank You!”

Campbell Family

“A&A did a very nice job at my house replacing the gutters and downspouts and the main roof and many smaller ones and also the garage roof. They came on time, did a professional job and cleaned up nice when the project was complete. I would definitely use them again.”

Steve C.