What is U-Factor and SHGC
If you’re a homeowner in New Smyrna Beach, Port Orange, Daytona, Edgewater, or DeLand, you already know that Florida’s heat and humidity can push your energy bills through the roof. That’s why understanding U-Factor and SHGC is so important when choosing new windows or sliding glass doors for your home.
As a Florida-based expert in window and sliding glass door installation and replacement, I often help customers make sense of these terms and why they matter. In this blog, I’ll break down what U-Factor and SHGC mean—and how they can affect your comfort, energy usage, and long-term savings.
What Is U-Factor?
The U-Factor measures how well a window or door resists heat loss. It's especially important in colder climates—but it still matters here in Florida, especially for homeowners using air conditioning year-round.
A lower U-Factor means better insulation and less heat transfer from the outside to inside.
For Florida homes, a U-Factor of 0.30 or lower is ideal for energy efficiency.
When replacing windows or installing new sliding glass doors, always check the U-Factor rating. It’s a key indicator of how well the product will keep your cooled air inside and the heat out.
What Is SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient)?
The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) tells you how much solar radiation (heat from the sun) passes through a window or glass door. This number is critical in hot, sunny climates like ours.
A lower SHGC means less solar heat is allowed in—keeping your home cooler.
Florida building codes typically require SHGC ratings of 0.25 or lower for maximum efficiency.
This rating is especially important if your home has large windows or sliding glass doors facing south or west, where sun exposure is highest. Choosing products with low SHGC helps you reduce cooling costs and prevents your furniture and flooring from fading due to UV exposure.
Why These Ratings Matter for Florida Homes
In cities like Daytona and Port Orange, where summer temps regularly climb above 90°F, energy-efficient windows and doors with low U-Factor and SHGC ratings can lead to:
Lower monthly energy bills
Better indoor comfort all year long
Extended HVAC system life
Increased home value and marketability
Compliance with Florida energy codes and rebates
As someone who’s handled window and sliding glass door replacements in Edgewater, DeLand, and New Smyrna Beach, I’ve seen firsthand how much of a difference these ratings make—especially in older homes with outdated glass.
What to Look for When Shopping
When choosing new windows or sliding glass door installations, make sure to:
Look for ENERGY STAR® certified products for Florida
Choose Low-E glass with insulated frames
Ask your installer about U-Factor and SHGC values
Choose a local contractor who understands regional energy codes
Our team specializes in helping homeowners throughout Volusia County and surrounding areas choose the right products for both performance and appearance.
Professional Window and Sliding Glass Door Replacement in New Smyrna Beach, Port Orange, Daytona, Edgewater & DeLand
At Wrend Residential, we’re proud to offer expert window and sliding glass door installation and replacement tailored specifically for Florida homes. Whether you're updating an older home or building new, we’ll help you choose high-performance products that are beautiful, durable, and energy efficient.
We don’t just sell and install windows—we guide you through the entire process with local knowledge, top-quality materials, and expert craftsmanship.
