The NFRC label on windows stands for the National Fenestration Rating Council. It's a non-profit organization that establishes energy performance ratings for windows, doors, and skylights. The NFRC label provides consumers with standardized information about the energy efficiency of these products, allowing them to make informed decisions when purchasing windows.

Here's what you'll typically find on an NFRC label and what each section means:

1. U-Factor: This measures how well a window prevents heat from escaping your home. The lower the U-Factor, the better the window insulates. It's measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units) per hour, per square foot, per degree Fahrenheit (BTU/h·ft²·°F).
2. Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): This measures how well a window blocks heat from the sun. It represents the fraction of solar energy transmitted through the window. A lower SHGC indicates less solar heat gain. It's expressed as a number between 0 and 1.
3. Visible Transmittance (VT): This measures how much light comes through the window. A higher VT means more natural light enters your home. It's also expressed as a number between 0 and 1.
4. Air Leakage (AL): This measures how much air can pass through the window. Lower AL values indicate less air leakage. It's measured in cubic feet per minute per square foot of window area (cfm/ft²).
5. Condensation Resistance: This measures how well the window resists condensation formation on the inside surface. The higher the condensation resistance rating, the better the window is at preventing condensation. This rating is expressed as a number between 0 and 100.

SOUND PROOFING:  While the NFRC label may not include an STC rating, some manufacturers may provide this information separately for their windows. Additionally, various independent organizations and testing laboratories conduct STC testing on windows and other building materials.

Consumers interested in evaluating the soundproofing capabilities of windows should inquire about the STC ratings from manufacturers or consult independent test reports. This information can help them make informed decisions when selecting windows for their homes or buildings, especially if sound reduction is a primary concern.

IMPORTANT:  These ratings provide valuable information to consumers about the energy performance and other key characteristics of windows. By comparing NFRC labels, consumers can choose windows that best suit their climate, energy efficiency goals, and budget.

!!!This is one of two comparisons to make when selecting windows; the other being the reputation of the local company.