Active (X) vs. Stationary (O) Panels:
In the business of windows and
doors it’s important to always keep in mind which
part of the product is going to move and which will stay stationary. Most
companies use the X and O system, respectively representing active and
stationary. We always view the window product from the outside and read left
to right. From the outside: XO = Left is Active and Right is Stationary. XOX
= Left and Right are active, while center is stationary. XX = both panels are
active. OX = Left is Stationary and Right is Active.
Spectrally Selective Low E Coatings:
A coating that allows short wave
energy (such as energy emitted from the sun) to pass through the glass while
long-wave infrared energy (such as heat from your furnace) is reflected back into your
home. Essentially the Low E coatings have been tuned to let energy into your
home that heats up your items in your house, and then drastically slows the
speed in which the heat is lost.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient:
The percentage of solar heat that is entering the
structure through the window unit. The lower the SHGC number the better
the window.
U-Factor (U-Value):
The U-Factor is the rate of non-solar heat gain or loss,
displayed as a percent. This factor is displayed on all NFRC (National
Fenestration Rating Council) certified windows. The higher the number the
less efficient the window will be in your home. In general, products such as
wood, vinyl, and fiberglass, in addition to the use of dual pane glazed
windows with Spectrally Selective Low E type coatings would have a better
U-Value than the single pane aluminum windows that are found in many older
homes. Visit the Milgard or PPG
website if you want to find out more, or give us a call and we can help with
finding the appropriate products for your application.