U-factor
A measure of total heat flow through a window or door barrier from room air to outside air. Lower numbers indicate greater insulating capabilities.
R-Value
A unit of thermal resistance used for comparing insulating values of different materials. The higher the R-Value of a material, the greater its insulating properties and the slower the heat flows through it.
Solar Heat Gain
The percentage of heat gained from both direct sunlight and absorbed heat. The smaller the number, the greater the ability to reduce solar heat gain.
Low-E
A coating consisting of a very thin layer of metallic oxide or silver which is applied to the third surface of an insulating glass unit to block radiant heat transfer and ultra-violet rays. Low-E coating on a window pane lets light in, yet reflects heat and keeps harmful UV rays out in the summer and keeps heat inside during the winter.
Argon Gas
An odorless, colorless, tasteless, non-toxic gas which is six times more dense than air. It is used to replace air between the glass panes to reduce temperature transfer between the outside and inside pane of glass.
Krypton Gas
Inert gas known for its ability to provide insulating properties in a small air space. A nontoxic gas used in insulating windows to reduce heat transfer.
Internal Grids
Horizontal or vertical bars applied to the interior of the window glass for the purpose of design
