California is First in Nation to Add Window Film Into Building Code

Cost-effective energy savings is the driving rationale for including window film in the building code. While California is a leader in energy saving initiatives, it is also a major importer of energy.

The change to the building code voted on May 31st and effective January 2014, means window film is recognized across California as a building product just like glass or roofing materials, but primarily for retrofit applications. It can significantly reduce energy consumption and reduce the effects of glass breakage, glare, harmful UV exposure to the skin and interior fading of furnishings.

“This addition to the code is a major step forward for energy efficiency in California, especially when considering the amount of untreated glass in the state in the majority of buildings,” said Darrell Smith, executive director of the IWFA. “The wide application of window film is a simple way to immediately cut utility demand generation and the resulting reduction of peak demand on utilities and greenhouse gases will further the state’s reputation as an environmental leader,” he added.

Among the items, the new building code for window film requires is a National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) certification label, manufacturer’s name, a 10-year warranty certificate, and compliance with the IWFA’s Visual Quality Standards. Although window films are normally used on existing windows, remodelers and contractors can also use the new building code for additional guidance.

“With over 70 percent of the buildings and homes in the California market having been constructed before 1980, window film has to be high on the list for every building retrofit project across the state,” said Mike Hodgson, president of ConSol.

The change in the code comes close on the heels of a major report comparing the application of window film to other energy saving methods across the state using the same study methods employed by the California Energy Commission.

The report by California-based ConSol showed among other findings that the vast majority of existing homes would be able to achieve significant energy savings and those with single pane glass could gain a greater energy advantage than using R-38 insulation in their home’s ceilings.

“We are immediately offering additional training and accreditation to window film installers across the state to ensure that the right type of window film, with the expected 10-year warranty, that the state requires is being applied,” said Smith. “We want both businesses and consumers to benefit from professionally installed window film,” said Smith.

Window Film is widely recognized by the NFRC, an organization that certifies energy control performance values of windows, doors, skylights, and window films. Homeowners and property managers can be sure of the benefits of window film as a long-term, and cost-effective solution.