Choosing the right window or patio door can feel overwhelming since there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. What’s best depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. But one key way to ensure you’re selecting a high-quality product is to check if it’s certified. Certified windows and doors are tested against strict performance standards, offering peace of mind that you’re getting a product built to last.

Certified products are measured on several key factors, such as structural strength, resistance to air and water infiltration, energy efficiency, solar heat gain resistance, and even security against forced entry. Local and state building codes may set minimum standards for these features, so be sure to check if they apply to your area. For example, in coastal regions, windows and doors are often rated for higher structural performance to withstand strong winds.

What makes certified products stand out is that they undergo rigorous testing, ensuring they can meet your home or building’s needs. Plus, to maintain certification, products must pass regular retesting, and manufacturers undergo annual audits by independent agencies. This means the windows or doors produced are the same as the ones originally tested, giving you consistent quality every time.

Although certification is voluntary, many local and state building codes require windows and doors to be certified and properly labeled. So, when in doubt, certification is a great way to find reliable and high-quality products for your home.

In the U.S., two major organizations oversee window and door certifications: the American Architectural Manufacturers Association and the Window and Door Manufacturers Association. These programs rate windows for various factors, including structural performance and air and water resistance. The National Fenestration Rating Council also certifies energy performance, helping you choose products that are energy efficient. Other independent organizations offer certification services as well.