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What is the difference between SHGC (Solar Heat Gain

Coefficient) and SC (Shading Coefficient)?


The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is the percent of solar energy incident on the
glass that is transferred indoors both directly and indirectly through the glass. The direct
gain portion is the solar energy transmittance, while the indirect is the fraction of solar
energy incident on the glass that is absorbed and re-radiated or transmitted through
convection indoors. For example, 1/8" (3.1 mm) uncoated clear glass has an SHGC of
approximately 0.86, of which 0.84 is direct gain (solar transmittance) and 0.02 is indirect
gain (convection / re-radiation).

The Shading Coefficient (SC) is a measure of the heat gain through glass from solar
radiation. Specifically, the Shading Coefficient is the ratio between the solar heat gain
for a particular type of glass and that of double-strength clear glass. A lower Shading
Coefficient indicates lower solar heat gain. For reference, 1/8" (3.1 mm) clear glass has
a value of 1.00 (SC is an older term being replaced by the SHGC).

In either case, a lower number indicates improved solar control over the 1/8" clear glass
baseline. With a long air-conditioning season, it is most important to reduce solar gain
and therefore reduce air-conditioning loads.

What is the difference between U-factor, U-value, and R-


value?
U-factor and U-value are interchangeable terms referring to a measure of the heat gain
or loss through glass due to the difference between indoor and outdoor air
temperatures. U-factor or U-value is also referred to as the overall coefficient of heat
transfer. A lower U-value indicates better insulating properties. The units are
Btu/(hr)(ft2)(°F).

R-Value equals a measure of the resistance of the glazing to heat flow. It is determined
by dividing the U-value into 1, (R-value = 1/U-value). A higher R-value indicates better
insulating properties of the glazing. R-Value is not typically used as a measurement for
glazing products. Both U-value and R-value are a measure of resistance to heat flow
and are referenced here to help understand U-value.

What are the important values to consider when specifying


glass for my project? Can you assist me with writing a glass
specification?
Glass specifying can be a very complicated and time-consuming process. It starts from
the fundamental question: What is the building’s overall function and design purpose,
and what role can glass play to achieve the design objectives? Several key
considerations include, but are not limited to, aesthetics, light transmission, energy
performance requirements and codes, safety requirements and codes, etc. The Glass
Association of North America’s (GANA) “Specifiers Guide to Architectural Glass” is a
good reference.
Guardian has developed a Product Performance Comparison Tool to assist in
comparing the performance data for SunGuard Advanced Architectural Glass products.
This tool will also generate a short-form specification. We are happy to answer your
questions and provide specific project assistance as well. Please click here to contact
us.

Should I use an argon- or an air-filled IG unit?


Insulating Glass Units (IG Units) can be made with air or other gases between the two
lites of glass. While air itself is a good insulator, filling the gap between the glass panes
with a lower-conductivity gas such as argon can improve performance by reducing
conductive and convective heat transfers. This phenomenon results from the fact that
the density of the gas is greater than the density of the air. Air-filled IG units are
commonly used in commercial applications. However, an argon-filled IG unit sometimes
might be required in order to meet specific requirements and energy codes.

The use of a less conductive gas in an IG unit has insulating benefits but may come at a
higher initial cost compared to an air-filled IG unit. There are also concerns about
maintaining the gas fill levels over time. Argon permeation is greater than air for most IG
sealants, which can result in negative pressure in the IG air space. Argon-filled units
also cannot use breather tubes for high-altitude applications.

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