Visible transmittance is one of these important ratings which lets you know how much natural light will pass through the window. Searching for replacement windows means finding the most energy-efficient option to save money and stay comfortable in your home. While VT isn’t completely geared towards energy savings, it’s still an important component when it comes to finding the right window for the job.

Homeowners need to take into consideration different ratings of windows to get the best option as far as energy efficiency and preventing harmful rays. Visible transmittance is one of these important ratings which measures the amount of light that comes in. Let’s take a look at what visible transmittance is, how it’s rated, and its’ importance when searching for replacement windows:

What Visible Transmittance Is

Visible transmittance or VT rating is the measure of how much visible light travels through your window into your home. A window’s visible transmittance is ranked by the National Fenestration Rating Council. It only rates the amount of light passing through your window, not its’ energy efficiency, which would be a separate rating.

How Visible Transmittance is Rated

There are many factors that go into rating a window’s visible light transmittance. VT is measured as a percentage of the amount of light that passes through the window. It is not just the measurement of light through the glass, but includes things such as frames, sash and grids that can decrease visible transmission. Even the amount of panes on the window and the type of glass can affect the VT.

The Importance of Visible Transmittance

Homeowners and builders should know the importance of VT because it goes hand in hand with understanding other window energy ratings when choosing your windows. Many homeowners want the maximum amount of natural light without sacrificing efficiency, so selecting the right glass and window style becomes very important. The wrong Low-e, for example, may provide high VT ratings but also allow more heat and damaging UV rays into the home at the same time.

Likewise, seeking a window with a lower visible transmittance may be desired to tame rooms where the afternoon sun is most intense. A lower VT can be achieved in a number of ways without sacrificing window efficiency. Custom Windows always recommends windows that deliver the highest energy efficiency and can work with you to deliver the VT that is right for your home. The most common and most recommended solution is combining windows that deliver both high efficiency and high Visible Transmission because allowing more natural light into the home also means that you will not only use less energy from your air conditioning system but also from needing to use lights for fewer hours each day.

Installing Windows with the Right VT for Your Home

Now that you understand the visible transmittance rating of windows, you can speak with your trusted window design and installation expert to find the best window to suit your needs. Our team at Custom Windows of Texas is knowledgeable in all aspects of window ratings and energy efficiency for your home. If you’re interested in replacement windows or finding the right windows for new construction, get in touch with us to discuss your options and find the best fit.

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