Nowadays, when more and more attention is being paid to energy efficiency, acoustic comfort and the safety of our homes, it is worth paying attention to the current standards and labels for windows. Knowledge of this subject will allow us to make an informed choice that will contribute to energy savings and improve the quality of life in our four corners. In the following article we present the most important information on the current standards and markings for windows.
European standards for windows
European Standards (ENs) are a set of regulations and guidelines developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) to unify technical requirements for various products, including windows.
They are valid in all countries of the European Union, including Poland.
For windows, the most important standards are EN 14351 and EN 1627.
The first concerns general requirements for windows and exterior doors, such as air tightness, water resistance or resistance to mechanical loads.
The second, on the other hand, specifies requirements for burglar safety.
Window energy labels
Window energy labels inform us about the energy efficiency of a product, which saves energy and reduces CO2 emissions. In the case of windows, the most important parameters are the heat transfer coefficient (Uw) and the solar factor (g). The lower the Uw coefficient, the better the window’s thermal insulation, while a higher g coefficient means greater solar energy benefits. In Poland, there is an energy labeling system from A++ to E, where A++ means the best energy efficiency. 
Quality and safety certificates
When choosing windows, it is also worth paying attention to the quality and safety certificates they have. In Poland, the most recognizable certificates are the CE mark and the ITB certificate. The CE mark means that the product meets the requirements of European directives, and the manufacturer of plastic windows and more declares compliance with the applicable standards. The ITB certificate, on the other hand, is issued by the Building Research Institute and confirms the product’s compliance with Polish standards and its high quality.
