One of the important factors in the overall long-term thermal performance of a complete fenestration system is the performance and durability of its insulating glass (IG). In addition to the glass panels and edge spacer, an IG unit consists of a rather complex combination of desiccants, sealants, gas fill, glass coatings (low-E, reflective, etc.) and (optionally) muntins or grids, which must work together to prevent failure.

To meet the North American Fenestration Standard (NAFS), windows must be constructed with IG units that meet CAN/CGSB-12.8 or ASTM E2190, which is also required for third-party thermal performance certification by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) and, by extension, for inclusion in the ENERGY STAR^® program.

IG certification is offered through three programs supported by FGIA.

1. ALI/AAMA Sealed Insulating Glass Certification Program
2. IGMAC Certification Program
3. IGCC/IGMA Insulating Glass Certification Program

ALI/AAMA Sealed IG Certification Program

The AAMA product certification program offers IG certification through its Gold Label administrator, Associated Labs, Inc. (ALI). There are immediate cost and scheduling savings for companies who currently participate in the AAMA air-water-structural certification program by performing simultaneous inspections for both the air-water-structural and IG programs.

Need guidance? View the ALI/AAMA IG Certification program checklist.

More Information

Contact Brad Schultz at ALI via email or phone (214) 565-0593.

IGMAC Insulating Glass Certification Program

IGMAC, the Insulating Glass Manufacturers Association of Canada, was formed in 1968 to establish high standards of professional conduct in the design, manufacture, application, installation and maintenance of hermetically sealed insulating glass units. The IGMAC Certification Program recognizes the need for regular and impartial product testing, maintenance of quality control in the manufacturing process and identification of products that conform to these criteria. The minimum standard of performance required for participation in the certification program is the highest level of the National Standard of Canada CAN/CGSB 12.8, latest issue.

The IGMAC Certification Program is sponsored and administered by FGIA, who contracts with an independent agency to perform audit services.

More Information

To learn more, visit the IGMAC Certification Program page.

All inquiries into the IGMAC program should be sent to IGMAC@amscert.com.

IGCC/IGMA Certification Program

This is an active program for the Harmonized Insulating Glass Standard (ASTM E2190) and subject to continuous, ongoing review in order to improve service to the manufacturer. We welcome any feedback with respect to any aspect of the program whether it is the administration, the auditing process or the testing phase of certification.

More Information

For a copy of the IGCC/IGMA Certification Program Manual, please contact IGcertification@fgiaonline.org. For more information, visit the IGCC/IGMA Certification Program page.