If you are reading this, chances are, you are in the process of researching replacement windows for your home. By now, you have likely realized that there are many factors to consider when selecting new windows. You must consider the architecture of your home, the type of frame that you want, your home’s exposure to the sun’s rays, and your budget.

While all of these factors are crucial in choosing the best windows for your home, there is one other factor that you should consider; that is, the certification associated with it. Continue reading to learn more.

What Are Window Certifications?

Window certifications provide consumers with a verification from a third-party of the performance and quality of the windows. Additionally, it outlines suitability-based claims. An example of a certification that you may be familiar with is the Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) for light fixtures.

When choosing replacement windows for your home, you should only choose from those that have performance certifications that have been certified. 

What Are the Most Common Window Certifications?

The following outlines the window certifications that you should be searching for when choosing the new replacement windows for your home: 

1. NFRC – This stands for “National Fenestration Rating Council”. This particular certification means that your window has been assigned energy-based performance ratings in many different categories. These include the solar heat gain coefficient, the visible level of transmittance, air leakage, U-factor, and condensation.
2. Energy Star – This certification is directly administered from the Environmental Protection Agency located within the United States. This requires a NFRC certification and outlines window recommendations based on zone. It combines the SHGC and the U-Factor and an estimate of how much energy savings you will experience with a window.
3. Passive House – This certification gives consumers a list of products that they approve. Examples of information included with this are climate recommendations, and the values associated with high-performance windows and window frames.
4. OITC/STC – This stands for “Outdoor/Indoor Transmission Class” and the “Sound Transmission Class”. This measures how soundproof a window product is. The product is tested to ensure that it meets the unique standards as set forth regarding sound transmission loss.
5. AAMA – This stands for “American Architectural Manufacturer’s Association”. This certification provides information on potential air leakage, the penetration of water, wind resistance, forced-entry assistance, and even on structural levels of pressure.
6. Declare Label – This is – basically – a list of ingredients that was used to build the window. It places a special emphasis on those that affect general sustainability and the health.

Let Us Help

Window certifications may be a bit challenging to decipher, but it is well worth learning them and ensuring that the replacement windows that you choose for your home have them.

We here at 316 Direct Wholesale can help you sort through all of the certifications and select the best replacement windows for your home. We offer a wide array of beautiful products and ensure that we exceed customer expectations. To learn more, contact us today by calling: 316-201-9436