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If you’re planning a window replacement for your home or storefront, you’ll have a range of options for both material and style. To help you choose, each window is marked with an R-value, U-value, or both. Both of these values describe the insulating power of the window design, but they use different scales. Consider the guide below when reading these values and finding the right window replacement.

Why It Matters

A well-insulated home is cheaper to live in than one that’s poorly insulated. Efficient insulation traps heat inside in winter and keeps it out in summer so your home stays comfortable longer.

This means your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to maintain the temperature, so you use less energy and have lower bills. Usually windows are one of the hardest areas to insulate. However, modern designs with multiple panes of glass that trap insulating gas allow you to prevent heat transfer without giving up your home’s beautiful view. Understanding how this insulating factor is measured will help you choose the best residential or commercial windows for your window replacement project.

R-Value & U-Value

window replacementR-value measures a window material’s power to resist transferring heat. The higher the number, the greater the resistance, meaning a more energy-efficient window. U-value is the opposite because it measures the speed of heat transfer. The lower the U-value, the slower the transfer, and the more energy-efficient the window.

Usually, a window with a high R-value also has a low U-value, but they may not line up exactly since they’re measured differently. R-value only takes into account the material the window is made from, such as wood or metal, while U-value tests the performance of the entire window system. This means U-value is slightly more accurate, but both give you a general idea of the performance you can expect.

For example, an R-value over five or a U-value approaching 0.25 both indicate a highly energy-efficient window. Anything below the R-Value of five would be considered inefficient when it comes to window insulation material. Additionally, anything above the U-Value rating of 0.25 would show that the window’s system isn’t effective when slowing the transfer of heat.

 

For help choosing the right window replacements in Texas or Howell counties, choose MO-Ark Glass. Their knowledgeable West Plains, MO technicians have over 30 years of experience with both residential and commercial windows and auto glass. There’s no job too large or small, and they’ll provide top quality customer service every time. Call (417) 257-2040 or visit their website to get started.

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