What documentation should a window supplier give me?
Ask for the NFRC CPD number for every rated unit, the whole-window U-factor and SHGC behind it, shop drawings and a CAD schedule at quotation, the impact test protocols where relevant, the written warranty with its exclusions, and a packing list keyed to the unit ID tags. Anything missing is a question.
The set, and when to ask for each part
Most of this should arrive at quotation, not after the order. A supplier who produces drawings only once you are committed has moved your risk onto your programme.
| Document | When | What it is for |
|---|---|---|
| NFRC CPD number per rated unit | At quotation | Independent verification of the energy figures at nfrc.org. |
| Whole-window U-factor, SHGC, VT, CR | At quotation | The numbers a plan checker and an energy model both need. |
| Shop drawings | At quotation | Sets the schedule gate and confirms the openings before production. |
| CAD window and door schedule | At quotation | Drops into your drawing set and take-off without retyping. |
| BIM model | At quotation | Coordination in the model rather than on site. |
| Impact test protocols and scope | Before you specify | TAS protocols, missile level, and what is approved in your jurisdiction. |
| Written warranty with exclusions | Before order | Terms, transferability, and whether it is prorated. |
| Installation manuals | With delivery | Cover is conditional on correct installation. |
| Packing list keyed to unit ID tags | With delivery | Finding opening 14 without opening every crate. |
What we supply, specifically
Every unit ships with its performance documentation. Shop drawings and CAD schedules come at quotation rather than after the order. Certificate numbers and test reports are available on request, and where a rating is listed in a public directory we publish the number so you can check it without asking us at all.
On delivery: five-layer packing in a non-fumigation plywood crate, an individual traceable ID tag on every unit, glass under a peelable protective film, and installation manuals in English and Spanish. Each order also includes a laser level and an installation tool kit.
Read the warranty for two words
Prorated and transferable. Most window warranties are prorated, so a claim in year fifteen recovers a fraction of the same claim in year two. Ours is not prorated: the benefit in the final year equals the first, and coverage transfers to each subsequent owner rather than expiring at the sale.
Then read the exclusions, because that is where a warranty is actually defined. Labour is not covered, and colour match on a replacement part is not guaranteed.
A gap in this set is information. A supplier who can give you a frame section depth but not a whole-window U-factor, or a performance claim but not the directory number behind it, has told you where their evidence ends.
Source: Document set as published on /for-builders, /warranty and the delivery and handling resource. Warranty terms per lib/warranty-terms.ts.
Other questions
- How long do imported aluminum windows take to arrive in the US?
- What U-factor do I need for my climate zone?
- What is a thermal break, and does it matter?
- Tilt and turn or casement: which should I specify for a US project?
- What does NFRC certification actually tell me?
- Can imported windows meet Florida HVHZ requirements?
- Can a large window opening ship as one assembly?
Still the wrong question for your project?
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