In building performance, both U-value and U-factor refer to the rate of heat transfer through a material or assembly; however, U-factor is typically used to describe the whole window or door assembly. In contrast, U-value can refer to the heat transfer of individual components or the entire assembly. Lower U-values or U-factors indicate better insulation and reduced heat transfer, making the building more energy-efficient.
I remember like this of insulation: A high U is thin and a low U is thick insulation.
The U-value tells us how good a material, like a window or a wall, is at keeping heat in (or out). Think of it like a blanket: A thick, cozy blanket keeps you warm because it doesn’t let much heat escape from your body. Low U-value is like a thick blanket: A low U-value means the material is really good at keeping heat from passing through it. High U-value is like a thin sheet: A high U-value means heat can easily pass through the material. Windows with a low U-value, for example, will help prevent heat from escaping in the winter and entering in the summer.
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