How To Read A Window's NFRC Sticker

[@sportsbros1232]

Power came out with their window samples and used a heat lamp to show how much heat is getting through the various windows. Typical amounts were 67% for double pane without Low-E and 60% with Low-E (not much of a gain here). However, with her window, heat pass through went down to 2%! I’m so glad I watched this video. I guarantee she was using a doctored up sample with 6 coats of silver like what he said!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

They are playing games, I'm sure!

[@beyondasphalt8879]

Thanks so much Jeff. My wife and I are going with Andersen Renewal over AnLin and a local Co ( Sonoma County CA) using Simonton. Cost for Andersen is more that 2.5X the other two but the removal and installation process is more thorough eg cut the existing window at the nail on fin and pull the glass and the frame leaving a thin strip of fin left. Should the Proposal also state how the removal and install will be performed ?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Having detailed proposals is critical when it comes to the window industry. It's so hard to understand what may be, or may not be, happening on any specific Project without those details. Remember, the most critical point of any replacement window project is going to be the quality of the installation.

[@jeffreysovel6257]

Just had a salesman in from Renewal by Andersen for an estimate, and at one point I asked for the NFRC specs on their windows. He actually said "NFRC? What's that?" Either he was a dope, or they must not be proud of their specs.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

He probably has only been taught to use persuasive tactics instead of provide valuable information. That would be my guess.

[@stevedavidson9003]

Will be building a custom home in 2022. Your videos are awesome and so helpful! Have to admit, this is the first one that made me laugh out loud. "If you really want a super low (solar heat gain) number, build a wall!" Priceless.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Hahaha... Thank you for watching. All the best, Jeff

[@ryantrohon7042]

Awesome video. I’m a new windows and doors salesman and your videos have given me so much helpful information.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you for watching

[@shirleycoffman2511]

I appreciate all the information that you give, I'm so much knowledgeable now about EVERYTHING windows etc... 👍❤️

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thanks for watching

[@calebj0682]

Just found you and have been binge watching! We are starting a new home construction and I just wanted to say thank you for all of the great information!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Wow! Thanks for watching our channel. Please keep me posted on your project and how we can be of help. Jeff

[@johnarnold5233]

I’m a contractor in Wisconsin. I’ve put many of the windows in you have mentioned. But I’ve also put in the brand Shuko vinyl windows. They are unusually made. They are made in a vacuum chamber and they use krypton gas instead of argon gas in their windows. And they put a flexible rubber seal between the panes instead of the aluminum trough filled with silica. They no longer make these windows for residential. Didn’t know if you ever run across a brand like this? They have proven to be a very well made window, had them in for 15 years now and still functioning quite well.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thanks for watching and your comment. The only product I've seen of theirs has been from europe. It's not available in the US at this time. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

[@johnarnold5233]

It was offered in Wisconsin but only for commercial buildings we were told. Not sure now it’s been a while. Thanks for the reply enjoy your videos they’re very helpful for me to understand and help the homeowner understand, Thanks again.

[@mkoutdoors8101]

The manufacturer Vinyl Kraft Windows out of Ohio make windows like you are talking about with Krypton and the flexible seal. I believe they are available in Wisconsin also. They are amazing.

[@petenelson8136]

Love this video. I'm building a new house in Indiana and going through the window and door review shuffle. I'm focused on the U-factor because it's primarily cold here, and my house is being built in the woods so I'll have plenty of shade. Great tip on taking a picture of the NFRC sticker, I'll be sure to remember that.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Pete, thanks for watching and your comment. I wish you all the best!

[@GForceFitness1]

Super helpful information. Thanks! We'll be building in Tennessee. I'm going to check your recommended company list for our area.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Great!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Great!

[@gustavoramirez1832]

Great video, I'd learn more about windows with you; thank you1

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you for watching!

[@KamesLT]

This is so helpful!

[@donnycanup1327]

Great video and very informative. Thank you. Would y'all happen to know a company to recommend in the Western Kentucky area?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thanks for watching my videos and for your question. We operate in Houston and the Dallas/Ft Worth area. However, we have great relationships with so many wonderful window dealers all over the. Country. I started a website where you can see if we have a trusted window company in your area. Perhaps I can point you in the right direction? Check out TheWindowExperts.com for a dealer near you! All the best! Jeff

[@kimauten7343]

Thanks for your help and knowledge!!!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you for watching!

[@Matthew-21_22]

A fabulous video. We're in the South Bend Indiana area. Our house was built in 1999 with Anderson windows. Years ago we had some issues and they sent us kits for EVERY window for free with next day delivery. So guess who I'm looking at? That said, between a large foyer window and a set set of sliding doors we have close to 30 windows on two floors. The house faces west. Any recommendations? Plus we just installed new carpeting and a new hvac system. Thank you for your advice or recommendations.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you for watching.

[@eulogiorodriguez6496]

Hello, Great videos. I was wondering if you know any window installers in the Bakersfield area that you can recommend.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Yes, please email our office. They can help. [e-mail]

[@eulogiorodriguez6496]

Good to hear from you. I sent my information hope to hear from the recommendation.

[@JohnFarlin]

I have really enjoyed your videos. Do you know any reputable window companies in the Columbus Ohio area?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

I started a website to help people locate a great window company near them. We may have someone in your area. Please visit TheWindowExperts.com

[@colleenblack6426]

Thank you for the great videos! Would love some info on high impact glass windows.

[@colleenblack6426]

Do you know any great window companies near the Alabama Gulf Coast?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Hi, there are many great brands. If choosing a price oriented purchase, MI, Simonton and Jeld-Wen are your best. If you don't mind spending a little more money, Andersen, Pella, Windsor and a few others are truly great products.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Call our office and we can look to see if we have anyone in your area.

[@bereanbible66]

What is that tool you’re using to test the window. Where do I go to buy one?

[@solemngreavance]

It’s a spectrometer, they are ~$2-3k

[@WilliamLePar]

Love your series of videos. Informative and to the point! Can you tell me what you think of ProVia Windows - We are looking at Endure and Econolite from Hartville, Ohio Hardware?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

I love the Provia brand of doors. If their windows are anything like the quality of their doors, I think you'll be very pleased. I personally have not had any experience with their windows so I cannot be of much help.

[@gregcorwin8316]

I don't know how I missed this video when you first posted it, but I have to say that this is among the very best of your videos, Jeff. Great information very well presented!!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you for digging into my archives! I still need to connect with you on a glass video soon.

[@tedbates1316]

Great content, super informative! Keep up the great work!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thanks for watching and your comment.

[@JeepPatriot2010]

Do you like triple pane glass? Do you have any videos in regards to triple pane windows

[@maclindsay15]

Thanks for a great video. Do you know any window companies in the Charleston SC area?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

I started a website to help people locate a great window company near them. We may have someone in your area. Please visit TheWindowExperts.com

[@beatricelutchmiah8399]

Thanks LOADS ! I’m in California who can you recommend ?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

We have a lot of dealers all across California that we recommend. Check out a website devoted to finding a dealer near you. JeffsList.com

[@amiradeshon5501]

Loving your videos ! Any references in McCall Idaho ? Just bought a home here .

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you for watching. Please email our office, they may have someone in your area that we can recommend. [e-mail]

[@PrzemyslawMatecki]

Hey Jeff, great video! Just a small question - do you know if NFRC certification is mandatory in Texas? I mean, I wonder if it always has to be NFRC or maybe there are other window certifications serving same purpose and Texas state just sets minimum accaptable parameter values. Also is NFRC (or other similar certification) required only for new homes or for replacing existing windows as well?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

NFRC is not a code or a standard that is mandated by anyone. It's simply the organization that you register your product with and submit your independent, third-party testing to. They are the database. There is no requirement to have an NFRC affiliation, but who wouldn't. It would be difficult to sell a product that's not on the list.

[@PrzemyslawMatecki]

@@HoustonWindowExperts makes sense. I've read somewhere that Texas requires Energy Star certificate. That made me wondering if Energy Star competes in a way with NFRC, but I understand it's a different thing.

[@cliffcoppinger2500]

Great Videos Jeff! I'm in Boise and looking to get 22 new windows for my 24 year old. We have Phillip Builder grade window now, looking at Western Windows via a friend. They say "soft E" coating which you do not mention in this video. Is that the same as just "Low E"? Also I can't seem to find information on anyone who says it's ok to cut the flange off and install the window as if it was a pocket window via screwing the new one in the existing frame. Any advise on not taking all the trim off vs just removing the window from the frame of the house?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

A while back people were using a soft coat and there was an option for a hard coat. Everything is now soft coat pretty much. Yes, it's the same thing as low-e. In your case, I would buy the window without the nail flange. I do not think it's worth the effort to remove the trim to install the window. I do have a great video on how to replace a window and make sure it is leak proof. I would follow the advice in that video.

[@sidneybowden5936]

What type of window would you suggest for Michigan during the winter or in general.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

See my other reply to your question.

[@manniesisneros6803]

Thank you so much I am so thankful I came across your KZbin videos you taught me how to make a great purchase an not get ripped off I campared Marvin pella Andersen renewal by Andersen I went with Marvin because I wanted the modern fiberglass But they were the better choice for me hands down but almost got fooled by Andersen but thank you so much

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Wow!!! I'm glad I was able to help!

[@Innessofficial]

Wow,we e building a new home and these r super helpful videos, thank you for sharing!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you for watching.

[@fordmustang5763]

Have you ever heard of home guard industries inc. windows? I just bought their homestar series windows from a local reputable window company. They have decent ratings with their conservision 800 glass

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

I have never heard of them. They could be really great, I'm not sure. Please let me know how your project turns out because I would like to have your first hand experience with this company.

[@josefernandez2722]

So, would that green effect also happen if you opt for triple pane as a glass option? If you get triple pane, will your Vt suffer too much? If so, is it not worth getting a triple pane?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Ask your window dealer to give you a proposal for the triple pane and see what the VLT numbers are. I do know that you're going to lose some light, but it may not be too much.

[@vivianlilah2148]

@houstonwindowexperts Thanks for the video. Jeff, you're a window nerd in the best sense of the term. Question: Does it make sense to have different windows on different floors based on those numbers? If one lives in a climate that has cold snowy winters and hot summers, keeping both heat and cold in are important at different times. If I want to keep heat in downstairs and allow it to be cooler upstairs, mixing and matching something to consider?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

I've never had anyone proposed that idea before. I'm guessing it could be fruitful but I am concerned about the appearance. I do know that the amount of low e and where it's located will impact the visual appearance of a window. Thank you for the compliment, by the way!

[@DreamProphet417]

Just remember, heat rises and cold sinks. It's common physics. If the windows upstairs are good, ur gonna keep the upstairs hot and the downstairs warm. It all depends on how good your windows are (upstairs) but if the windows upstairs are bad, then your going to lose heat efficiency. 1st floor windows are important as well but the key is to make sure the highest part of your house is air tight to keep the efficiency closer to 100 as possible. Cold sinks, heat rises. So the goal is to keep your basement the coldest part of your house. The 1st floor the warm part of your house and the upstairs part of your house hot. It's just how it goes. Nothing you can do about it especially having different windows 🪟. Your heating system will always keep the highest room hot, 1st floor warm and the cold will sink to your basement. You should always have a hole in the floor on each floor of your house with a register covering it (best place for each hole in the floor will be at the very center of your house) and that will help with the circulation of air flow. It will help the cold sink to the basement and allow the heat to stay in the upper floors.

[@albertocedilo2073]

Do you guys offer Sierrra pacific windows?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

We do not. It is a good product.

[@trevorswim1565]

Hey Jeff and team. Looking for a recommended dealer in Knoxville TN area if you have one. Thank you

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thanks for watching. Please check out JeffsList.com

[@Jennifer-xw7dw]

Hello Jeff, great video. Is the nfrc 15 digit number inscribed on the window/frame anywhere like a car has - not just a sticker? Also what if after you choose a window you ask for a tint?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

It's not... I'd avoid film tints because they trap heat and can cause a seal failure.

[@Jennifer-xw7dw]

@@HoustonWindowExperts Thank you for your reply Sir. No, I meant the standard tinted glass options that come with the windows like Bronze, Gray etc offered by dealers. My question is if/how much that could impact the NFRC rating or will it have a rating for each window with the tint applied.

[@Jennifer-xw7dw]

@@HoustonWindowExperts Its my bad, I didn't take pictures of the NFRC with a tint, but that is what I have decided on. I thought that would be the best thing for Fla climate and efficiency.

[@Daljit-NY]

Jeff I wish you were in Queens, NY ..lolzzz..please let me know if you know someone in my area for windows replacement project...17 windows...thank you.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thanks for your comment. I'll look and see if we know anyone in your area that we can recommend.

[@Jitu-gj4xs]

Wish you were in Tampa Florida

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

I started a website to help people locate a great window company near them. We may have someone in your area. Please visit TheWindowExperts.com

[@michellelaw9294]

I'm planning on buying windows before the New England winter. Can you recommend anyone that sells windows in Springfield, Massachusetts?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

I started a website where you can find a great window dealer in your area. These are companies that I know personally and can recommend. Check out TheWindowExperts.com

[@di74100]

Great video! I suspected that my 3 month old builder's grade windows were pretty crappy. With an AL of .3, your video confirms my suspicions. What are your thoughts on Sunrise windows? Any other recommendations? I'm located in Ohio. Thank you!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

My experience with Sunrise Windows has been very good. I have not dealt with them much in the last 4 or 5 years and I know that they recently were purchased by a company called M. I. Windows. I absolutely detest their new owner because they are all about volume and margins. They don't seem to care much at all about customer service or quality. Of course, I must state that that is my opinion. If you are looking for a great company near you, please check out JeffsList.com. We may have somebody that we know near you that does a great job.

[@di74100]

@@HoustonWindowExperts Thank you! I truly appreciate your honest opinion!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

You're welcome

[@irvingclark3925]

Looking for Lanai glass Ocala Florida. Any recommendations installers?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Unfortunately, I do not know anyone that does that in your area. I think you'd have to go to Hawaii for that!

[@anth713]

I have questions why some windows look like bluish like mirror at night when light on ?

[@sallyhumm4865]

Hello we are in the Rockwall Texas area who could you recommend for windows in my area please

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Sorry for the delay in getting back to you. Email the office at [e-mail] and we'll let you know if we have someone in your area.

[@matthewbell629]

Hello Jeff, great videos. Would you recommend any window company around corona ca. Would appreciate it,thank you.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Hi, I have a list of great window companies all around the country. I think we have someone near you if I'm not mistaken. Go check out JeffsList.com

[@ArcolaBridge]

What do you think about fibertec Windows? I have their triple pane argon windows.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you for watching and your question. I'm not familiar with them at all. I'll dig around and see what I can learn.

[@dancin4]

Hey Jeff do you know anyone in Orlando area... I m looking for replacement double pane...

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Yes, I do. Check out JeffsList.com

[@justinjacobs19]

Hey Jeff! We just found your channel a couple days ago.....thank you for all the great information! We are finalizing plans to build our forever home. We are located in Oklahoma City....who would you recommend in our area?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you for watching. Our office can help with that. Email to [e-mail]

[@hobbytimeallthetime7553]

Can you tint these windows with after market tint? I was told that some of these windows you destroy with doing so. Also, can you buy these new windows heavily tinted, such as only allowing 7 or 15% of light through?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

If you tint them it will void the warranty. Tint can trap heat and cause seal failure. They work so well that I'm not sure why anyone would want to tint them anyway.

[@hobbytimeallthetime7553]

@@HoustonWindowExperts Thank you for your prompt reply... we live in Florida. In our bedroom we have our windows tinted fairly dark already on top of having blackout blinds with curtains over that, we also have a gigantic slider in the bedroom that is tinted that gets the sun right as it rises, we have a black out curtin on that and regular curtains after that... believe it or not, any bit of sunlight that gets through lights up the room making it difficult to sleep after sunrise at all. The tint guy is redoing all our tint in the house for free and some windows we will be going to limo tint on, which I still don't think will be enough... he said the tint wasn't supposed to fail, I said it did because of our extremely cheap windows... so now my next question is, can you get energy efficient windows as dark as limo tint? Can you just keep adding coating to get the windows limo dark? We need new windows, but we will never do them if they can't be tinted dark. The tint guy said there is a special tint you can use on energy efficient windows, but it voids the warranty so there is this one tint that covers the warranty of the windows, which I can only imagine how much they are or how the warranty exactly works, right? Thank you!

[@jhop1138]

You are the Walter White of windows ! I'm in the process of replacing windows and your videos are a wealth of knowledge. Do you know any great window companies in Atlanta, Ga; more specifically Lawrenceville ? Thanks

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you for watching and your comment. Yes, I do. Please check out JeffsList.com

[@amandam2275]

Do you have a recommendation for a window company in St. Louis?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Please email our office, they may have someone in your area that we can recommend.

[@NFRCRatings]

Thank you. That's a really good video.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you!

[@josebenedico7379]

What does -80 +80 mean in the sticker, the seller said that it's the pressure. Are they good ? Does it mean that the windows are strong?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

That is the DP rating of the window in positive and negative wind environments. The positive number is the design pressure number when the wind is blowing on the window while the negative number is how much suction the window can handle after a hurricane has passed by the home and creates a vacuum. The higher the number, the better. That is a very good number! You have to remember that the larger the window gets the number typically goes down.

[@bonnieharrison830]

Can you recommend anyone in the Jacksonville, Florida area?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Email us at [e-mail]. We can look and see if we know anyone in your area.

[@CanCobb]

What I'm most confused by is how the wind is blowing inside a box truck. Are they shipping windows on a flatbed?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Correct. While they do come from the factory to the warehouse in an enclosed trailer, a lot of subcontractors will take them from the warehouse to the job site in open trailers.

[@chriselliottre]

Love this videos! Do you have a preferred window dealer in Richmond, VA?

[@sportsbros1232]

Great video!

[@iyang0810]

Any good vinyl windows dealer in IL?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Yes! Please check out JeffsList.com

[@DeniseE265]

I’m located in 419 Ohio and I am in the market for replacement of several half moon/quarter moon triple pane windows. Most window companies I’ve contacted do not carry 3 pane windows they say mainly because of their weight and the double pane are more efficient. I agreed to have a renovation company who advertised triple pane window upgrades come out to give me an estimate on Wednesday. However after watching several of your videos I’m having second thoughts. Can you give me direction?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you for watching. I'm sorry if I've created any confusion, or made your choices more difficult. I do think that there's very little benefit to a triple pane over double pane in most cases. If there was ever an argument for triple pane, you're part of the world would certainly be a good one. I'm not sure why they're worried about the weight unless there's something structurally unsound about your home. It is harder to install a triple pane window that weighs more, perhaps that is their reasoning? I would look for a full service, turnkey, Windsor window dealer near you. They should be quite helpful.

[@jeffbuchler9711]

Denise Edwards I’m in the 419 area code (Toledo) and own Zen Windows. Based on what you are saying I’m guessing you are in rural NW Ohio near Bryan or Defiance. They are selling an interior surface glass which offers a low u value but a low CR rating. A CR rating that is only 9% better than clear glass. You will excessive condensation and even ice on the coldest days like we are having now. Let’s talk call me at 419-206-8259 I have 26 years in the window and door industry and have a vast amount of knowledge. No pressure just good quality info to educate you on the right windows for your home.

[@brenday3889]

Who do you recommend for the north Dallas area (Plano)? Thanks for your very informative videos.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Call our office or text us. We can help.

[@patrickswagner1007]

Pls share the DFW recommendation from HWE.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

If you email our office we can send you their info. We don't ever post it on here because there's a chance that at some future date we have someone else we recommend instead of them. [e-mail]

[@patrickswagner1007]

@@HoustonWindowExperts over the weekend I asked for help via FB messenger as well. Have not gotten a reply yet, just the automated reply. Thank you.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Sorry about that. Did you also email our office? [e-mail] We get hundreds of these per week so sometimes it takes a little bit.

[@friendsofbutlerspond7595]

Is there any window that can retain 90 percent of its argon gas after 20 years?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Most windows are filled at less than 100% argon when they leave the factory. I doubt any glass would still have argon gas over 90% at 20 years. However, I do not think that should concern you. Argon is nice to have but amounts to less than 5% of the overall efficiency of a window.

[@matthewbell629]

Me again, forgot to mention I'm replacing single pain.thamks

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Gotcha

[@mrsduddlycross]

Don't focus entirely on the price either. I wish everyone buying windows could see this. Your window "contractor" might just order windows without any low e to get you that great price.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Agreed!

[@ProTexTV]

That company does the same sticker game in Dallas. I won't name companies but they are located in Houston and Dallas. Buyer Beware!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Agreed!

[@richardreichow1969]

I am confused .. With millions of homes getting new windows , why have you only had 16,000 views at this site ? People are just not interested in what they are getting for their money !

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Richard, thank you for watching and your comment. Windows are the kind of thing that most people leave up to their builder or architect to select. Those who take an interest in the process typically end up with better results. That's why we're here.

[@jhop1138]

You are the Walter White of windows ! I'm in the process of replacing windows and your videos are a wealth of knowledge. Do you know any great window companies in Atlanta, Ga; more specifically Lawrenceville ? Thanks

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you for watching and your comment. Yes, I do. Please check out JeffsList.com

[@heritagesoftail8381]

Can I rent this device from you so I can make the salesman squirm?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Hahaha.. good idea!

[@chodkowski01]

You really have to do your homework on windows. These window companies are no different than car dealerships. Read and understand the window etching numbers.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Yes, do your homework and make an informed decision.

[@Junksaint]

Doesn't only 10% of your heat loss come from windows? And it takes generations for them to pay themselves off

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thanks for watching and your comment. I am not sure that 10% is an accurate number. I do know that the window is the weak link on any home. A typical wall is at least 10 times more efficient than a window. If you can raise the efficiency of your window, you will definitely have a more comfortable home and save more money.