NFRC-certified windows from Europe
From our U.S. customers, we know that a common concern is whether NFRC-certified windows from Europe are available and if the certification is valid or required.
In this article, we’ll provide a list of European systems with valid certificates and explain how to avoid misunderstandings or misinformation that could disrupt your project schedule and lead to costly issues.
In this article you can learn about:
- The list of NFRC-certified European windows
- How to verify a foreign business partner’s claims for NFRC compliance?
- What NFRC certication is and isn’t?
NFRC-certified windows and doors from Europe
European manufacturers offer a variety of products with NFRC certificates, perfectly suited for luxury homes in the USA. At debesto, we provide only the highest-quality and vetted products.
- aluminum windows (Aliplast Genesis 75, Aliplast Imperial, Reynaers CS 77, Aluprof MB-79N, Aluprof MB-86N and more)
- aluminum lift and slide doors (Aliplast Ultraglide)
- aluminum sliding doors (Aliplast Vison Glide)
- aluminum-frame glass doors (Aliplast Genesis 75, Reynaers CS 77)
- uPVC windows (Aluplast Ideal Neo, Aluplast Ideal 4000, Salamander bluEvolution 82)
- uPVC sliding doors (Aluplast Smart Slide)
The list of systems
On the list below you can find frames from European system providers with estimated prices
How to verify a foreign business partner’s claims for NFRC compliance?
To verify if a foreign business partner’s product claims comply with NFRC standards, follow these steps:
- Request NFRC labels or documentation:
Ask your business partner to provide NFRC labels or certification documents for the windows or doors they are supplying. These labels include essential performance ratings verified by the NFRC, ensuring compliance with U-factor, SHGC, and other criteria.
- Consult with NFRC or Local Authorities:
For additional verification, reach out to the NFRC directly or consult local building code authorities. They can confirm the validity of the partner’s claims and ensure the products meet regional energy efficiency standards.
- Request Third-Party Testing Reports:
Ask for third-party testing reports that demonstrate NFRC compliance. All NFRC-certified products are independently tested to meet performance standards, and these reports should align with the claims made by the foreign business partner.
What NFRC is
NFRC stands for the National Fenestration Rating Council. It is an independent certification program that provides detailed, research-backed data on the energy efficiency and structural integrity of windows and doors.
The NFRC sticker confirms the most important performance parameters, such as:
- U-Factor: Measures how well a window prevents heat loss. A lower U-Factor means better thermal insulation, helping to reduce energy costs and improve overall efficiency.
- SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient): Indicates how much solar heat passes through the window. Lower SHGC values provide better heat control, especially in warm climates, reducing cooling costs.
- Visible Transmittance (VT): Shows how much natural light enters through the window. Higher VT values mean more light, reducing the need for artificial lighting and enhancing interior comfort.
- Air Leakage (AL): Measures how much air passes through a closed window or door. A lower AL value indicates better performance in keeping out drafts, helping maintain comfort and save energy.
Additional parameters, not shown on the sticker, are:
- Condensation Resistance
- Design Pressure (DP)
- Structural Pressure (STP)
Is NFRC certificate always required?
Energy efficiency and labeling requirements for fenestration vary across the U.S.
Some areas enforce these codes strictly, while others allow fenestration without NFRC labels.
In most locations, you’ll need at least some NFRC information on your products, even if the label itself isn’t mandatory.
That’s why, in many cases, a certification from Europe will be enough to pass a building inspection. However, we recommend you to consult with your architect and local building control.
What NFRC certification is NOT
If NFRC certification matters to you, thorough verification is essential.
The complexities of U.S. versus EU specifications and certifications can be confusing, and our clients have experienced misleading information.
That’s why you should carefully review all attachments provided in the offer from your potential supplier.
For example, here’s a NAMI certificate that applies only to the window’s glazing—not the entire window. One U.S. client came to us after being misled by another supplier, who claimed this certificate was equivalent to an NFRC certification. It was not.
If you need more information about window parameters, read the article about European window specifications.
For a product to be considered certified, it must have an NFRC label on it. Even if the product is listed in the CPD, it is only certified if the label is present.
If you have doubts about whether a product has passed certification, verify it directly through the source:
NFRC Directory Search (Enter the name of the system provider or manufacturer)
To assist with verification, ensure you know the name of the manufacturer assembling the windows. Your supplier should provide this information.
Key Takeaways
- Regional requirements vary: NFRC labeling standards differ across U.S. regions, so consult with your architect or local building authority to ensure compliance with local codes.
- Know your supplier: Ensure your supplier provides complete manufacturer details so you can verify certification directly through the NFRC directory.
- Understand limits: Be aware that some certificates (e.g., those covering only glazing) do not equate to full NFRC certification for the entire window.
- Verification is essential: Always confirm NFRC compliance by reviewing proper documentation, checking for official labels, consulting the NFRC or local authorities, and requesting third-party testing reports.
Our list includes European window systems with genuine NFRC certifications, ideal for high-end residential projects. While NFRC certification is not always required, it can help streamline approvals and ensure compliance with energy codes.
At debesto, we help American companies source European windows that meet project requirements while avoiding overpaying and ensuring a smooth, hassle-free process. If you need assistance integrating European windows into your project, we’re here to help (contact).
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