In a time when energy efficiency and going green is a part of everyday discussion, the term solar heat gain is no longer industry-specific terminology. We’re commonly discussion solutions for this phenomenon, but many are left wondering what it really means and what it has to do with products like retractable tensioned structures.
What is the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient?
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, “solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) is the fraction of solar radiation admitted through a window, door, or skylight — either transmitted directly and/or absorbed, and subsequently released as heat inside a home.” To put it another way, it’s the UV rays that pass through your window and cause your building to heat up as the day progresses.
The solar heat gain coefficient is now a regular measure (replacing the old shading coefficient) consumers can consider when purchasing new windows for their property.
What Does Solar Heat Gain Have to do With Retractable Tensioned Structures?
Among the many benefits of retractable tensioned structures, including awnings and canopies, are their ability to reduce the overall impact of solar heat gain for commercial properties, while adding to the aesthetic appeal of your building. In fact, awnings and canopies can help to reduce internal temperatures by between 8 and 15 degrees simply by blocking some of those UV rays.
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that “window awnings can reduce solar heat gain in the summer by up to 65% on south-facing windows and 77% on west-facing windows.” Retractable awnings and canopies make this possible without interfering with the view from the inside and while providing business owners the flexibility of retracting their shading solution whenever they’d like.
This has a major impact on businesses because it reduces the need for air conditioning and, in turn, reduces the cost of energy bills. In fact, it’s common to see a 25% reduction of your air conditioner’s energy usage simply by adding awnings and canopies to shade your windows.
Are Retractable Tensioned Structures Right for Your Commercial Property?
At Retractable Structures (a division of Eide Industries, Inc.), we specialize in designing, manufacturing, and engineering commercial retractable structures and awnings. With almost 80 years of extensive design, construction, metal fabrication, industrial sewing, and installation experience, we are proud to offer the highest quality custom and pre-engineered products possible, made right here in the U.S.