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On Windows, what are R & U Values?

Just in case you're a very detail oriented person and want to know what all the clamor is about regarding R & U values in regards to energy efficient windows, we've prepared this article for you.

The R-value represents the resistance a material has to heat flow. R-Value measures the insulation properties of a material. The higher the R-value, the greater the resistance. Insulated glass provides a pocket of air to enhance its R-Value.

The U-Value is an insulation rating for transparent objects like glass. The term U-value is measured by the amount of heat that escapes a surface, like a wall, ceiling, or in our case, a window. The lower the U-Value, the better the insulation.

The energy efficiency of windows is measured by U-values. Windows, made of glass, are not insulators so they can't be measured in “R-Values.” But since windows obviously have insulating properties, there needs to be a measurement that allows comparison of the types, style and materials of windows.

There is a direct reciprocal relationship between R-values and U-values. To find a U-value, we divide the number ‘1’ by the R-value.

So in other words - the higher the R-value, the better the surfaces are insulated. The lower the U-value, the better a window does it's job of keeping out heat and cold.

When shopping for windows remember the higher the R value the better and the lower the U value the better.

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