A builder is installing windows in a new home and needs to ensure compliance with Michigan Energy Code. For a 2,400 square foot house with 320 square feet of window area, what is the window-to-floor area ratio?
Correct Answer
C) 13.3%
Window-to-floor ratio = (320 ÷ 2,400) × 100 = 13.3%
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Window-to-floor area ratio = (window area ÷ total floor area) × 100 = (320 ÷ 2,400) × 100 = 13.33%, which rounds to 13.3%. This ratio is used to assess solar heat gain and fenestration compliance under Michigan Energy Code.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: 15.2%
15.2% would require approximately 365 sq ft of window area (365 ÷ 2,400 × 100). This result likely comes from a division error or using the wrong denominator.
Option B: 11.5%
11.5% would require approximately 276 sq ft of window area. This is below the actual ratio and may result from inverting the calculation (e.g., 2,400 ÷ 320 × something).
Option D: 17.8%
17.8% would require approximately 427 sq ft of window area — significantly more than the 320 sq ft given. This is a distractor with no basis in the calculation.
Memory Technique
Remember the ratio formula as 'Windows over Walls': W ÷ F × 100. The window area is the numerator (it's smaller), and the floor area is the denominator (it's larger). 320/2400 = 0.133 = 13.3%.
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