NFRC Inspection Agency Services for Fenestration
Meet building code requirements and qualify for ENERGY STAR with NFRC-licensed Inspection Agency (IA) services. Keystone provides third-party verification of window and door energy performance ratings required by IRC, IECC, and IBC building codes nationwide.
NFRC Licensed Inspection Agency — Trusted nationwide for code compliance and market access
Why NFRC Certification Is Essential
Required by Building Codes
NFRC thermal performance ratings are specified by the International Residential Code (IRC), International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), and International Building Code (IBC). Required for code compliance in most jurisdictions.
Qualify for ENERGY STAR
NFRC ratings are required to demonstrate compliance with the US EPA's ENERGY STAR® Windows Program, opening doors to residential and commercial markets.
Access Incentive Programs
Enable your customers to qualify for utility rebates, federal tax incentives, and state energy conservation programs with verified performance data.
Third-Party Credibility
Provide architects, builders, and homeowners with independently verified thermal performance data from a nationally-recognized certification body.
Energy Performance Ratings Certified
Our NFRC IA services provide third-party verification of key energy performance characteristics:
- U-Factor — Heat transfer/insulation
- SHGC — Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
- VT — Visible Transmittance
- Air Leakage — Infiltration rates
- CR — Condensation Resistance
Products Covered: Residential and commercial windows, doors, and skylights
How NFRC Certification Works
Product Testing
Products are tested or simulated using NFRC-approved methods at accredited laboratories.
IA Verification
Keystone, as the licensed IA, reviews and validates all test data and product configurations.
Label Authorization
Products receive NFRC labels with certified ratings for use in the marketplace.
CPD Listing
Products are listed in the public NFRC Certified Products Directory for verification.
NFRC Certified Products Directory (CPD)
All NFRC certified products are listed in the public NFRC Certified Products Directory at www.nfrc.org. The CPD allows architects, code officials, contractors, and homeowners to verify product ratings and options.
Access the NFRC CPD Codes listing and abbreviated IGDB containing emissivities for the most prevalent low-e coatings in North America.
Ready to Get Started with NFRC?
Review the NFRC Getting Started Checklist guide for fenestration manufacturers looking for detailed guidance on certifying thermal performance.
For personalized guidance on your specific products, use the contact form or call our certification experts.
Meeting National Building Code Requirements
International Residential Code (IRC) — Requires NFRC ratings for residential fenestration products
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) — Specifies NFRC U-Factor and SHGC requirements by climate zone
International Building Code (IBC) — References NFRC ratings for commercial building energy compliance
FAQ: NFRC-Licensed Inspection Agency (IA) Services
Yes. Manufacturers may use test or simulation reports originally issued to an extruder or supplier. For NFRC compliance, the reports must be reissued by the original NFRC-recognized laboratory in the manufacturer's name and sent directly to Keystone, your NFRC-licensed Inspection Agency (IA), for review.
No. Keystone provides NFRC-licensed Inspection Agency (IA) services and is an ISO/IEC 17065–accredited Certification Body, but not a testing or simulation laboratory. Keystone maintains a vetted list of ISO/IEC 17025–accredited labs recognized for fenestration testing and simulation.
Once all required simulation reports, validation test reports, and an approved Quality Manual are received, the NFRC review process typically takes 2–3 weeks. After approval, product data is uploaded to the NFRC Certified Products Directory (CPD) certifications are issued, and labels can be ordered.
Manufacturers must enroll as an NFRC Participant and contract with anNFRC-licensed Inspection Agency (IA). Keystone charges an annual IA services fee, and NFRC charges a separate annual participation fee. Costs vary based on participation scope and services required.
NFRC certification includes enrolling as an NFRC Participant, selecting an NFRC-licensed Inspection Agency, completing required testing and simulations, submitting a Quality Manual, and listing products in the NFRC CPD.
👉 Link: NFRC Getting Started Checklist
Yes. NFRC requires insulating glass units to be certified to ASTM E2190 within nine (9) months of your first NFRC certification. Manufacturers may join Keystone's IG Certification Program or use an IG supplier that already holds ASTM E2190 certification.
No. NAFS, impact, and safety glazing tests are not required for NFRC certification. However, ENERGY STAR® participation requires an air leakage report from NAFS testing.
Yes. NFRC-certified products must have both temporary and permanent NFRC labels. Products without proper labeling are not considered certified. Labels must be applied at the manufacturing facility before shipment to a distributor or end user.
No. ENERGY STAR® participation is voluntary and administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. While ENERGY STAR® uses NFRC ratings, it applies stricter performance criteria and requires additional testing and fees. Learn more about ENERGY STAR®.
NFRC certification provides independently verified energy performance ratings for windows, doors, and skylights. Oversight by an NFRC-licensed Inspection Agency ensures ratings are accurate, consistent, and comparable for consumers, regulators, and energy-efficiency programs.
Why Choose Keystone as Your NFRC IA?
NFRC Licensed Inspection Agency — Authorized to verify and certify fenestration energy performance
Comprehensive expertise — Supporting manufacturers with testing, labeling, and ongoing compliance
Responsive service — Dedicated support team to guide you through the certification process
NFRC Resources & Standards
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