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U-value

heat transfer unit of measure

Quick Summary

The U-value is a unit of measure for heat transfer. It quantifies how effectively heat can pass through a building component, such as a wall or window, or a specific thickness of material like insulation. A lower U-value indicates better insulating properties, meaning less heat is lost. This is the inverse of the R-value, which measures thermal resistance, with higher R-values signifying superior insulation. The U-value is a crucial factor in assessing the energy efficiency of buildings.123

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