What is the NFRC?

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) was formed in 1989 as an independent agency that rates fenestration energy performance.  So what exactly is fenestration?  NFRC defines it as “products that fill openings in a building envelope, including windows, doors, skylights and curtain walls designed to permit the passage of air, light, vehicles or people.”  The agency allows consumers to compare the performance of various products accurately and evaluate their effectiveness for a particular project.

The NFRC has developed a uniform, independent rating and labeling system for the energy performance of windows, doors, skylights, etc.  This allows architects and builders, along with homeowners, to easily compare products and decide which is best for their project.  Through NFRC ratings, building and government officials can determine if products meet building codes. 

Over 500 manufacturers participate in the NFRC rating program, which gives them a consistent and accurate way to show the energy benefits of over 1.67 million products, as well as giving consumers a way to compare products fairly.  So, the next time you are considering using energy efficient fenestration, take a look at the NFRC rating on the products, or visit the NFRC website for a wealth of information.