Effective March 15th, 2012, the Energy Conservation Code will affect the glazing of impact-resistant windows and doors for both new construction and retrofit projects. Projects approved after March 15th will need to comply with maximum U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) values as shown in the table below:
Product | U-Factor | SHGC |
---|---|---|
Non-impact windows and doors | 0.65 or less | 0.30 or less |
Impact-resistant windows and doors | 0.75 or less | 0.30 or less |
The code states that both new contruction and renovation projects must comply with the values presented above. However, for renovation projects, the code is up to interpreration by the local building official. The Florida Statute defines a renovation as construction that exceeds 30% of the assessed value of the property. Per this statute, retrofit jobs that do not exceed 30% of the value of the property may not be required to meet the values above. Nevertheless, it is important to consult with the building official having jurisdiction before making a decision one way or the other.