Knowledge Base

Calculation concepts in plain language

Use these definitions to understand the fields and results shown by Fencalc. Project-specific evidence remains the authority for your inputs.

Thermal performance terms

U-value: A measure of heat flow through an element for a given area and temperature difference. In the app it is used as a whole-element input or result.
R-value: Thermal resistance. For a simple homogeneous layer, resistance can be derived from thickness divided by conductivity when the units are consistent.
SHGC: Solar heat gain coefficient. It represents the fraction of incident solar energy admitted through an opening under the rating method used for that product.
Conductivity: A material property used with thickness to estimate the thermal resistance of a homogeneous layer. Use product-specific data where available.

NFA: Net floor area used by relevant project calculations. Keep its measurement basis consistent across project setup and building services.
Opening: The shared term used in Fencalc for a window or door included in the fenestration schedule.
Pane: One glazed or infill region within an opening design. Several panes can be separated by mullions.
Mullion: An intermediate frame member separating adjacent panes. Its entered thickness affects the visual layout and frame area allocation.

Material library: Preloaded values that speed up design entry. They are starting data and should be checked against the actual specified product.
Certified override: A project-specific rated value entered in place of a value calculated from generic material properties. Keep the supporting certificate or product data.
Town database: The location list used to populate province, coordinates, energy zone and related project parameters. Confirm the selected town represents the actual site.
Evidence reference: A drawing, detail, specification, schedule or design note identifier that allows another reviewer to verify an input or checklist response.

Pass: The entered data satisfies the implemented check for that result. It does not replace confirmation that the inputs and project scope are complete.
Review: An input is missing, inconsistent or outside the implemented check and needs attention before the assessment is finalised.
Calculation report: A record of project inputs, calculation outputs and references at a point in time. Keep it with the matching design revision.
Professional review: Fencalc supports a calculation workflow; the responsible user remains accountable for source data, interpretation and final project decisions.

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