SHGC vs U Value for a Window

[bdaniel_877]

Hi all,

This may have already been asked but what is the ideal range/balance for a SHGC value and a U-Value? In particular for a cold climate.

Thanks,
BD

[Bae]

Hi

For a cold climate you typically want a...

High SHGC value to allow for passive solar heat gain
And a low u value to stop the passage of the cold climate

However, it depends on the type of building too. if it’s a skin load dominated building the above statement is fine but if it’s a internal load dominated building you want a low SHGC and a low u value

Hope this helps!

[Raja]

Here's a good resource for more info on glazing and heat gain/loss.

https://www.wbdg.org/resources/windows-and-glazing

"In general, low SHGC windows should be considered for east- and west-facing glazing as a means of controlling solar heat gain and increasing occupant comfort. For large commercial and industrial structures, specify low SHGC windows on the east, south, and west facades. SHGC for north-facing windows is not critical for most latitudes in the continental United States."

"For buildings where passive solar heating energy is desired, south-facing windows with high SHGC values coupled with low U-factors should be specified."

[bdaniel_877]

thanks!