NFRC stands for National Fenestration Rating Council. The NFRC is an independent non profit organization which tests and certifies windows to certain performance ratings to help consumers compare the performance of one window with the performance of another window. The windows are tested using computer simulation and physical testing at laboratories accredited by the NFRC. The NFRC label provides the results of this testing using various standard ratings. On EcoShield vinyl replacement windows and new construction windows the NFRC label contains the U-Factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, Visible Transmittance, and DP Factor. The U-Factor measures the rate at which heat transfers and is an indicator of how well a window insulates so the lower the U-Factor the better the window insulates. According to Energy Star U-factor values generally range from 0.25 to 1.25. The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures the solar energy that is transmitted through the window. This measurement is scaled from 0 to 1 and is an indicator of how well the window blocks heat that is caused by sunlight. Again, the lower the number the less solar heat is transferred through the window. According to Energy Star the SHGC values typically range from 0.25 to 0.80. The Visible Transmittance rating’s range is from 0 to 1 and measures the light that is permitted through the window. The higher the Visible Transmittance value the better the window allows light to pass through it. According to Energy Star, values generally range from 0.20 to 0.80. The last value found on the NFRC label of EcoShield vinyl replacement windows and new construction windows is the DP or Design Pressure rating which tests the ability of the window to survive a certain amount of positive or negative pressure per square foot. The DP rating required for different applications varies based on many factors which will be outlined in the local building code. The higher the DP rating the better the window will stand up to design pressure criteria.

Kasson and Keller, Inc has been a leading producer of replacement windows and new construction windows since 1946. In an effort to keep all of our customers in step with current events, we have developed this quick reference guide with tips on the new EPA LRRP law.
1.    The LRRP law went into effect in April 2010, however enforcement has been delayed until October 2010.
2.    If your home has already gotten lead-free certification, you can use this to avoid additional testing, just provide your contractor with this document.
3.    The LRRP law applies to an exterior painted surface of 20 sq feet or more and 6 sq feet or more of interior surfaces.
4.    The LRRP law applies to any work that may disturb lead paint, whether done by a contractor, painter, electrician or plumber.
5.    The LRRP law requires that any contractor working on a home built before 1978 to receive proper training through an EPA accredited trainer. The initial course is an 8 hour session. The successful completion of the course will allow contractor to obtain certification.
6.    One person per crew must have successfully completed the course and have passes the test to become a certified renovator.
7.    Contractors will need to get recertified every 5 years.
8.    Records verifying distribution of EPA lead brochure – signed proof – must be retained for 3 years after completion of the job.
9.    Records verifying that lead-based paint is not present must be retained for 3 years.
10.    The EPA can give authority to States to implement their own LRRP program in lieu of federal regulations.
11.    Non-compliance can result in penalties of up to $32,500, per violation, per day.

EcoShield single hung and double hung windows are designed for easy cleaning by tilting the sashes inward so the outside of the window can be cleaned from the inside. To tilt a window in for cleaning, first unlock the security locks on the sash. Each window comes with two tilt latches on each operating sash. Raise the bottom sash about three inches. Using both hands, disengage the tilt latches on both sides simultaneously. While holding the latches with your thumbs, gently pull the top of the sash toward you until the latches are clear of the frame. Holding the top of the sash, continue to lower it until you pass 90 degrees. This will lock the balance shoes in place. To tilt the top sash (on the double hung), lower the sash about three inches and follow the same procedures. To return either sash to its operating position, swing the sash back up and push the top of the sash gently until the tilt latches snap back in the side jambs.

Condensation is a common problem on windows, even highly energy efficient windows. This occurs more often in the winter but really any time the temperature of the glass reaches or goes below the temperature of the dew point of the air inside the house. The dew point is the temperature at which the air will no longer hold the moisture that is in it. Generally the more dry the air the lower the temperature of the dew point which is why condensation on windows actually tends to be more prevalent in newer houses or in houses with new highly energy efficient replacement windows. Older houses tend to be more drafty and as a result, the mixing of the dry air that seeps in from outside with the more humid inside air keeps the overall inside air dry enough to prevent condensation. Over the years houses have become better sealed to keep the warm air in and the cold air out in the winter. While this more efficient sealing of houses lowers the cost of heating it will also tend to keep the moisture in the house when the house is not ventilated properly or contains a lot of moisture producers. The condensation then occurs because even on a highly energy efficient window the temperature of the inside pane of glass will be somewhat cooler than the air inside the house being heated by the furnace. When the wet air inside the house creates a high dew point temperature and comes in contact with the cooler glass on the window the moisture in the air is drawn out and forms condensation on the glass. The solution to this problem is to reduce the moisture contained within the inside air so that the dew point is lower than the temperature of the inside pane of glass. The moisture in the house can be reduced by using exhaust fans in your bathrooms and kitchens and venting clothes dryers or gas burners to the outside which all expel a substantial amount of water vapor. It is also a good idea to make sure that the outside sensors on your furnace humidifier are set up properly so that the humidifier is not putting too much water in the air.