Performance Information

 Golden Windows Basic Thermal Performance Information

Energy Rating
Energy Rating (ER) measures overall performance based on the windows ability to admit solar heat, prevent heat loss through frames, spacer, and glass, and resist air leakage heat loss. ER Value is measured in watts per square metre.  The higher the ER Value, the better the window performance.

SHGC- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
The ratio of solar heat gain through a window component to the solar radiation incident on it, for a given angle and for given environmental conditions.  Values are for the total unit.

U Value and U Factor
U Value and U Factor indicate the amount of heat loss through a complete window product, due to conduction, convection, and radiation. U Value is measured in watts per square metre.  U Factor is measured in BTU per hour per square foot.  Lower numbers indicate better thermal performance with less heat loss.  Windows have been simulated in accordance with NFRC 100-2004, using the WINDOW 5 and THERM 5 computer programs.

R Value
R Value measures the resistance of a window product to heat flow. Higher values indicate better thermal performance. R Value is numerically equal to the inverse of U Factor.

Double Glaze Windows

The most practical solution to sound control are dual-pane windows.  They are cost-effective, energy efficient, and retain the aesthetic beauty and functionality windows were designed for. A standard dual pane window carries an STC rating of around 31.

Dissimilar Glass

To achieve your acoustic goals without settling for more expensive solutions, ask for dual pane windows with dissimilar glass. While standard glass units consist of two panes that are the same thickness, dissimilar glass refers to a window with two panes of glass with different thicknesses. For instance, one pane might be 3mm (1/8") and the other 5mm (1/4").

Each pane in a dissimilar glass unit blocks different sound frequencies. One pane targets lower frequency sounds like a neighbor’s stereo or airplane noise. The other pane targets higher frequency sounds like screaming. The result is sound control over a greater range of frequencies and a significantly higher Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating than a window with standard dual-pane glass.

In fact, dual pane windows with dissimilar glass can achieve STC ratings of approximately 34, nearly as high, if not as high, as triple pane or laminated glass. An STC 34 brings the windows up to the level of most of the outside envelope of the home.

Triple Glaze Windows

In many cases, a triple pane window has smaller air spaces between the panes of glass. These smaller airspaces are less than optimal for sound control and often create a reverberation in the sound waves that amplifies the sound level and cancels out any beneficial effects a third pane of glass provides. Industry test results have shown that an average triple pane window has an STC rating about that of a dual pane window with dissimilar glass.

Laminated Glass

The main purpose for laminated glass is to guard against high wind environments where impact resistance is required. As with triple pane glass, laminated glass reduces the airspace and doesn’t tend to perform much better than a dual pane window with dissimilar glass. In some cases, however, laminated glass can offer a slight STC improvement. Be advised, though; laminated glass can significantly add to the cost of the window, making it an impractical solution from a cost perspective.

Golden Windows has performed thousands of physical and thermal simulations of our products. Depending on the product and options that you select the thermal performance specifications may change. To find out more regarding Energy Star Canada, please visit the Natural Resources Canada website (http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/home) or in the United States, please visit, the National Fenestration Rating Council website (www.nfrc.org) to find the thermal test results or our products or contact us at sales@goldenwindows.com for futher details.

Appropriate selection of Golden Windows' windows, doors, and accessories which conform to all applicable laws, ordinances, building codes, and safety requirements is the sole responsibility of the architect, building owner, and/or contractor. All risks related to building design and construction, maintenance, or the installation and use of Golden Windows Limited products shall be assumed by Buyer and/or User.

Golden Windows has partnered with Vision Coatings to apply a UV-ToughCoat system to our GoldenVinyl products.

UV ToughCoat paint provides a finish that is 7 grades harder than conventional paints. This leads to a beautifully finished vinyl with improved durability and superior scratch-resistance.