Energy-Efficient Windows and EPR
Based in Laurel, MD, Vytex Windows ranks among the nation’s top 100 window manufacturers. At Vytex Windows, the many offerings include state-of-the-art, energy-efficient replacement windows that help homeowners to save money. Consumers can assess windows’ energy efficiency by examining their energy performance rating (EPR). The ratings incorporate metrics that can help consumers to determine which window is most energy efficient. Two important aspects of a window's EPR are its U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). The U-factor describes the rate of non-solar heat flow conduction through a window. The lower the U-factor, the more energy efficient the window. SHGC is defined as the amount of solar radiation that windows allow into a home as heat. A window with a high SHGC can more efficiently absorb heat in the winter months. A low SHGC means that a window will be better able to screen out solar heat gain in the summer. Both of these metrics are just part of a window’s EPR. Other qualities measured by window EPRs include air leakage and the transmission of sunlight.











