--- title: Performance Ratings for Windows and Doors description: To evaluate performance ratings for windows & doors, compare the SHGC, U factor, VT and Air Leakage ratings to the energy goals you have for your home. image: https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hubfs/window%20repair.jpeg --- [financing](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/easy-financing/) [specials](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/specials) [reviews ](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/reviews/)[blog](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com) [![Builders & Remodelers](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hubfs/Builders_and_Remodelers_January2020/Images/downarrow.png)](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com) [FREE ESTIMATE Click Here](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/free-consultation/) [![Builders & Remodelers](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hubfs/Builders_and_Remodelers_January2020/Images/downarrow.png)](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com) [Call Now](tel:612-509-6532) - [Home](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/) - [About](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/about-us/) - [Windows](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/elements-windows-by-soft-lite/) - [Roofing](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/remodeling-minneapolis/roofing/) - [Siding](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/siding/) - [Doors](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/remodeling-minneapolis/doors/) # Performance Ratings for Windows and Doors Posted by [Builders and Remodelers](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/author/builders-and-remodelers) on Dec 15, 2020, 12:04:14 PM ![Builders and Remodelers](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hubfs/Builders%20%26%20Remodelers%20Logo-square.png) - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) When it comes to the overall performance of your windows and doors, it is vital to understand their efficiency, which means understanding [how to read performance labels](https://www.hgtv.com/design/remodel/mechanical-systems/how-to-read-a-window-energy-efficiency-label).  Performance labels are applied to a window or door at the point of manufacture, and they indicate the results of individual tests. These tests indicate the efficiency of a product, and these ratings are some of the most important factors when it comes to replacing windows and doors. Performance ratings grade efficiencies like U-Factor, VT, and Air Leakage, all of which impact monthly energy bills and living standards. These ratings are best used when compared to [ENERGY STAR's map](https://www.energystar.gov/products/building_products/residential_windows_doors_and_skylights/key_product_criteria) for ideal ratings based on different geographic regions. Click below to learn more about the industry's highest-rated window in the major performance categories.  [![Learn About Elements Windows](https://hubspot-no-cache-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/6937339/64d50823-6375-407b-92a0-9b9c138c53a4.png)](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/6937339/64d50823-6375-407b-92a0-9b9c138c53a4) ![window repair](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hs-fs/hubfs/window%20repair.jpeg?width=5216&name=window%20repair.jpeg) ## **Look for the NFRC and ENERGY STAR Labels** One of the first things to look out for is the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label. The NFRC is the official certifying body for windows and doors.  That means their mark certifies that a product is up to industry standard. The second label to look out for the blue ENERGY STAR label. This label certifies the product has met or exceeded ENERGY STAR standards for efficiency.  If you’re looking for quality, these two labels are essential. ## **Visible Transmittance (VT)** Visible Transmittance (VT) measures the amount of visible light that shines through. VT is graded on a scale of 0 to 1, with a higher number indicating more light admittance. This rating is especially relevant for homes looking to brighten a dark room, or even reduce that morning glare. The ideal VT rating for your home will also vary depending on where you live, and if there are any objects blocking your windows, such as trees, neighboring homes, or other structures.  If your home is blocked, then selecting a higher VT may be the way to go.  **![st-paul-living-room-replacement-windows-builders-and-remodelers](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hs-fs/hubfs/st-paul-living-room-replacement-windows-builders-and-remodelers.jpg?width=1066&name=st-paul-living-room-replacement-windows-builders-and-remodelers.jpg)** ## **U-Factor ** U-Factor is the rate at which a window or door will conduct heat. The main thing to remember here is that U-Factor measures *non-solar* heat, rather than direct sunlight.  It’s also important when analyzing U-Factor to ensure the product has been tested in its entirety, and not just on the glass. While some manufacturers only test the glass for U-Factor, the [NFRC](https://www.nfrc.org/) insists on measuring the product as a whole.  This provides a full-picture analysis of a product, which is important to take into context.  **[![Learn About Elements Windows](https://hubspot-no-cache-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/6937339/64d50823-6375-407b-92a0-9b9c138c53a4.png)](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/6937339/64d50823-6375-407b-92a0-9b9c138c53a4)** ## **Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)** SHGC is the amount of solar light that passes through and is released as heat. With SHGC, it’s important to remember that the lower the coefficient, the less heat. Again, while the inclination may be to purchase a product with the lowest SHGC possible, it might not be the best thing for your home. Climate, location, and those neighbors we talked about earlier  can also impact what the [best SHGC rating for your home](http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download;jsessionid=F501B205617205B27ADCE963B07E21B2?doi=10.1.1.546.2749&rep=rep1&type=pdf) is. A home exposed to long, cold winters may opt for a higher SHGC to keep those energy bills low in the winter, while a home that sits in the desert heat will naturally lean towards a low SHGC to keep cool in the summertime.  **![Window Replacements](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Window%20Replacements.png?width=1692&name=Window%20Replacements.png)** ## **Air Leakage ** Air leakage is the most important rating to consider if you’re interested in insulation. Air leakage measures how much air moves can squeeze into and out of the home through the space where the window or door meets the wall. Air leakage is expressed in cubic feet per minute.  In order to translate that into your home, divide this number by the number of square feet in the room. That will give you the Air Leakage rating for that product if installed in your home.  For example, a window that allows 200 cubic feet per minute of air leakage over a 50 square foot space will have an Air Leakage rating of 0.4. The higher the air leakage rating, the more air that can seep in and out of a home. This rating, unlike the others, is *not* dependent on geography. Much more often than not, a lower air leakage rating will be indicative of a tighter seal. ## **Energy Efficient Doors and Windows** Here at Builders and Remodelers, our expert teams provide residential window installation, vinyl and fiber cement siding, roof installation, exterior door replacement, decking and other home improvement services.  All of our crews are fully licensed, bonded and insured, and our experienced contractors are led by managers with over 40 years of experience. Our easy financing program makes it painless to get started, and our [free in home consultations](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/free-consultation/) are unmatched.  [Reach out today](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/) to get started. ![rate-us-1](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hs-fs/hubfs/rate-us-1.gif?width=1000&name=rate-us-1.gif) Topics: [Window Tips](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/tag/window-tips), [Windows](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/tag/windows), [Window Features](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/tag/window-features), [Siding](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/tag/siding), [Doors](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/tag/doors) ### Sign Up For More Helpful Home Improvement Tips and Info ### Recent Posts ### Posts by Tag - [Windows (10)](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/tag/windows) - [Roofing (7)](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/tag/roofing) - [Siding (6)](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/tag/siding) - [Window Features (5)](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/tag/window-features) - [Window Tips (5)](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/tag/window-tips) - [Doors (4)](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/tag/doors) - [Decks (1)](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/tag/decks) See all ### Testimonials Starting with Dan Douglas, he 'sold' the company and the product with professionalism and expertise. The crew, led by Francisco, was all that Dan said it would be: professional, acute attention to detail, very courteous and gracious to us as homeowners, and very in tune to our needs and wants. Francisco even went above and beyond our expectations in finding areas where things could be 'improved' during our siding project. It was finished on time and within budget. Dr. Jon Bathke, Crystal, MN Janis Bathke We were very pleased with the roofing and siding replacement that was done by Builders and Remodelers. The staff was very committed to make sure that we were happy with the job. They listened to any concern, and ensured we were completely satisfied (before and after the job). We will definitely do business with them in the future. Judy Kaczmarek Builders & Remodelers were more than professional from the get-go! From the knowledge and expertise of our sales rep to the professionalism of the installers, we received top-notch service. And our windows are amazing. I can't believe the difference it makes in our home. We can't wait to finish the rest of the windows on our house with your company. Thanks again for the amazing product and service :) Heidi Olson Starting with Dan Douglas, he 'sold' the company and the product with professionalism and expertise. The crew, led by Francisco, was all that Dan said it would be: professional, acute attention to detail, very courteous and gracious to us as homeowners, and very in tune to our needs and wants. Francisco even went above and beyond our expectations in finding areas where things could be 'improved' during our siding project. It was finished on time and within budget. Dr. Jon Bathke, Crystal, MN Janis Bathke We were very pleased with the roofing and siding replacement that was done by Builders and Remodelers. The staff was very committed to make sure that we were happy with the job. They listened to any concern, and ensured we were completely satisfied (before and after the job). We will definitely do business with them in the future. Judy Kaczmarek Builders & Remodelers were more than professional from the get-go! From the knowledge and expertise of our sales rep to the professionalism of the installers, we received top-notch service. And our windows are amazing. I can't believe the difference it makes in our home. We can't wait to finish the rest of the windows on our house with your company. Thanks again for the amazing product and service :) Heidi Olson Starting with Dan Douglas, he 'sold' the company and the product with professionalism and expertise. The crew, led by Francisco, was all that Dan said it would be: professional, acute attention to detail, very courteous and gracious to us as homeowners, and very in tune to our needs and wants. Francisco even went above and beyond our expectations in finding areas where things could be 'improved' during our siding project. It was finished on time and within budget. Dr. Jon Bathke, Crystal, MN Janis Bathke ### Recent News & Updates ## Award-Winning & Industry-Recognized ![Award Image](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hubfs/Builders_and_Remodelers_January2020/Images/award.png) ![Award Image](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hubfs/Builders_and_Remodelers_January2020/Images/award1.png) ![Award Image](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hubfs/Builders_and_Remodelers_January2020/Images/lp-smartside-logo-sm.png) ![Award Image](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hubfs/Builders_and_Remodelers_January2020/Images/award3.png) ![Award Image](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hubfs/Builders_and_Remodelers_January2020/Images/tamko-pro-logo.png) ![Award Image](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hubfs/Builders_and_Remodelers_January2020/Images/award2.png) [![Builders & Remodelers](https://blog.buildersandremodelers.com/hubfs/Builders_and_Remodelers_January2020/Images/Builders-Remodelers-Logo.png)](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com) Address Builders & Remodelers, Inc. 3517 Hennepin Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55408 USA [FREE ESTIMATE Click Here](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/free-consultation/) Connect with us - - - <noscript> <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2824.2326390568646!2d-93.300236784634!3d44.93893847635858!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87f624f000000001%3A0x73a8e76414bd07a5!2sBuilders%20%26%20Remodelers%2C%20Inc.!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sin!4v1568612917216!5m2!1sen!2sin" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen=""> © 2020 Builders & Remodelers, Inc. | [Disclaimer](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/disclaimer/) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.buildersandremodelers.com/privacy-policy-2/)