ENERGY STAR Canada Version 6.0: What Window and Door Suppliers Should Prepare for Now Canada's residential window and door industry is approaching another important energy-efficiency milestone. On October 15, 2026, Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) announced the release of the draft Version 6.0 specifications for ENERGY STAR Canada fenestration products, covering windows, doors, and skylights. The proposed specifications are planned to take effect on January 1, 2029. The government is accepting stakeholder feedback through December 20, 2026, giving manufacturers, certification organizations, importers, and other industry participants an opportunity to review the proposed requirements before they are finalized. For companies supplying aluminum windows and doors to the Canadian market, this development is worth monitoring now. Energy performance requirements can influence glazing selection, frame design, product testing, certification planning, and the documentation needed to support a product's eligibility for a voluntary efficiency program. However, the proposal should not be confused with an immediately effective new building code requirement. Version 6.0 remains a draft under review, and the final requirements may differ from the proposal. Official source: Environment and Climate Change Canada — ENERGY STAR Canada Program Notices. What Is Changing in ENERGY STAR Canada? ENERGY STAR Canada is a voluntary energy-efficiency program that helps consumers identify products meeting defined performance criteria. For residential windows, doors, and skylights, qualifying products must meet the applicable technical specifications and certification requirements before manufacturers can promote them as ENERGY STAR certified in Canada. The existing Version 5.0 specification took effect on January 1, 2020. The proposed Version 6.0 update represents the next stage in the program's development. According to the October 15, 2026 government notice: A draft of the Version 6.0 technical specifications has been released for stakeholder review. The consultation period runs from October 15 through December 20, 2026. Stakeholder comments are expected to be addressed by the end of February 2027. The proposed effective date is January 1, 2029. An 18-month transition period is planned between the finalization of the specification and its effective date. These milestones provide a planning framework for manufacturers and suppliers. They do not mean that every window and door currently sold in Canada must immediately comply with Version 6.0. The final technical criteria and applicable certification procedures should be confirmed once the revised specification is finalized. Why Does This Matter for Aluminum Window and Door Manufacturers? Energy-efficiency requirements affect more than the glass selected for a window. The performance of a complete fenestration product depends on the interaction between glazing, frame materials, thermal breaks, spacers, seals, and overall product configuration. For aluminum window manufacturers, this creates several areas worth reviewing as the Canadian specification develops. 1. Glazing Selection May Need to Be Reassessed Glazing is a major factor in a window's thermal performance. Depending on the product and climate, manufacturers may evaluate double or triple glazing, low-emissivity coatings, gas-filled insulating glass units, and spacer systems. However, a glass package cannot be selected by looking at one performance value alone. The U-factor measures heat transfer through a product: a lower value generally indicates better insulation. The solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) measures the fraction of incident solar energy admitted through the product. A lower SHGC reduces solar heat gain, while a higher SHGC allows more solar energy to enter. The appropriate combination depends on the building's climate, orientation, heating and cooling needs, and applicable performance criteria. As the Version 6.0 proposal progresses, manufacturers should review the draft's actual product categories and performance tables before deciding whether existing glazing configurations require changes. 2. Aluminum Frame Design Remains Important Aluminum is widely used in commercial and residential fenestration because of its strength, durability, and suitability for slim-frame designs. However, aluminum also conducts heat more readily than many non-metallic frame materials. Thermal breaks help reduce heat transfer through aluminum frames. Their design, together with the glazing system and other components, contributes to the overall thermal performance of a finished window or door. Manufacturers preparing for future energy-efficiency requirements should therefore review the complete system rather than treating glass upgrades as the only available solution. The frame, thermal break, glazing, seals, and hardware should be considered together. Any proposed change should be evaluated against the product's documented performance and applicable testing requirements. 3. Testing and Certification Planning Should Start Early A product specification change can affect testing schedules, certification work, production planning, and documentation. Waiting until a new specification becomes effective may leave manufacturers with limited time to evaluate their existing product range and resolve gaps. A practical preparation process can include: Identifying product models currently marketed in Canada. Collecting available thermal-performance reports and certification records. Reviewing which products are eligible for the current ENERGY STAR Canada program. Comparing existing product data with the proposed Version 6.0 requirements once the relevant criteria have been confirmed. Identifying models that may require additional evaluation, testing, or design changes. Not every product will necessarily need to be redesigned or retested. The required action will depend on the final specification, the product category, the existing evidence, and the applicable certification procedures. What Should Canadian Window and Door Buyers Watch? The proposed update is relevant not only to manufacturers but also to builders, developers, contractors, distributors, and project procurement teams. Buyers should distinguish between general energy-efficiency claims and documented performance for the exact product being specified. Confirm the Performance Data When comparing aluminum windows and doors, review the available U-factor, SHGC, and other applicable performance information. Confirm the units used and ensure the data relates to the intended product configuration. For projects involving multiple climates or building orientations, the specification should reflect the actual project requirements rather than relying on a generic product description. Verify ENERGY STAR Eligibility Separately ENERGY STAR certification is not interchangeable with general energy-efficiency performance claims. A product may have thermal-performance data without being certified under the relevant ENERGY STAR program. Conversely, a product's eligibility under an existing specification should not automatically be assumed to establish eligibility under a future version. Buyers should verify the certification status of the specific model and check which technical specification applies. Consider Long-Term Product Availability For projects with long procurement cycles, future specification changes can affect product selection and sourcing decisions. Project teams should clarify whether the required product is expected to remain available, whether any certification transition may affect the proposed model, and what documentation will be supplied at the time of purchase. These questions are particularly relevant when a project spans several stages of design, tendering, approval, and construction. Canada and the United States: Why Buyers Should Not Assume the Requirements Are Identical Although Canada and the United States share a closely connected fenestration industry, their energy-efficiency programs and regulatory requirements are not identical. ENERGY STAR Canada has its own technical specification for residential windows, doors, and skylights sold in Canada. In the United States, the ENERGY STAR program for residential windows, doors, and skylights follows its own published criteria. The U.S. program's current criteria became effective on October 23, 2023, according to the U.S. ENERGY STAR website. The Canadian Version 6.0 proposal should therefore not be interpreted as an automatic update to the U.S. program. For manufacturers supplying both markets, the practical implication is straightforward: verify the applicable program, product eligibility, performance criteria, and labeling requirements for each destination. A product that qualifies under one program should not automatically be advertised as certified under the other. Official references: ENERGY STAR Canada — Windows, Doors and Skylights Technical Specification U.S. ENERGY STAR — Residential Windows, Doors and Skylights A Practical Preparation Timeline for Suppliers With the consultation period ending on December 20, 2026, companies serving the Canadian market can take several steps before the new specification is finalized. October–December 2026: Review the Draft Manufacturers and other stakeholders should review the published draft, identify requirements that may affect their products, and submit relevant technical feedback before the consultation deadline. Importers and distributors can also review their current product portfolios and ask manufacturers about their readiness for the proposed changes. Early 2027: Monitor the Final Specification The government notice states that comments received during the consultation period are expected to be addressed by the end of February 2027. Industry participants should monitor the official program announcements and confirm the final requirements rather than making long-term decisions based solely on the draft. 2027–2028: Evaluate Product and Certification Needs Once the final criteria and transition arrangements are clear, manufacturers can determine which models need further evaluation, whether product modifications are necessary, and how much time is required for any additional testing or certification. The appropriate actions will vary by product and should be based on confirmed requirements. Before January 1, 2029: Confirm Readiness As the proposed effective date approaches, manufacturers and suppliers should verify the applicable specification, certification status, product documentation, and labeling arrangements for models intended to qualify under Version 6.0. The objective is to avoid relying on outdated assumptions when quoting or supplying products for the Canadian market. Frequently Asked Questions When Is ENERGY STAR Canada Version 6.0 Expected to Take Effect? The proposed effective date is January 1, 2029. This date should be treated as a planned milestone until the final specification and implementation details are confirmed. Is ENERGY STAR Canada Version 6.0 Already Mandatory? No. The October 15, 2026 announcement concerns a draft specification undergoing stakeholder review. ENERGY STAR is a voluntary certification program, although other building codes or project requirements may separately establish mandatory energy-performance criteria. What Products Are Covered by the Proposed Version 6.0 Update? The announced update covers fenestration products, including windows, doors, and skylights. Manufacturers should consult the draft specification for its precise scope, product definitions, exclusions, and performance criteria. Will All Aluminum Windows Need to Be Redesigned? Not necessarily. Whether a product needs design changes, additional testing, or certification work depends on the final requirements and the existing product's performance and documentation. Does ENERGY STAR Canada Version 6.0 Also Apply to Products Sold in the United States? No. The Canadian specification and the U.S. ENERGY STAR program have separate requirements. Manufacturers supplying both markets should verify the applicable criteria and certification status for each market. What Should an Importer Ask an Aluminum Window Manufacturer? An importer should ask which specification applies to the product, what thermal-performance data is available, whether the model is currently certified under the relevant program, and what testing or certification work may be required if the criteria change. Conclusion The proposed ENERGY STAR Canada Version 6.0 update is an important development for manufacturers and suppliers serving the Canadian residential window and door market. Although the new specification is not scheduled to take effect until January 1, 2029, the consultation period creates an opportunity for industry participants to review the draft, assess potential product implications, and plan certification activities ahead of time. For aluminum window and door manufacturers, preparation should focus on verified product performance, complete system design, reliable documentation, and a clear understanding of the differences between Canadian and U.S. requirements. The most effective next step is to monitor the official specification process and base product decisions on the finalized criteria, rather than assuming that proposed requirements are already in force. Official References Environment and Climate Change Canada. ENERGY STAR Canada Program Notices — October 15, 2026: Update to Fenestration Product Specifications. https://natural-resources.canada.ca/energy-efficiency/energy-star/communique-list Natural Resources Canada. Windows, Doors and Skylights — ENERGY STAR Canada Technical Specification. https://natural-resources.canada.ca/energy-efficiency/windows-doors-skylights-energy-star-canada-technical-specification U.S. ENERGY STAR. Residential Windows, Doors and Skylights. https://www.energystar.gov/products/res_windows_doors_skylights This article is for general industry information. The Version 6.0 criteria described here remain subject to the official review and finalization process. Manufacturers and buyers should consult the final specification and applicable requirements before making compliance or certification decisions.

NAFS-26 Explained: What North American Window and Door Buyers Should Check Before Ordering The publication of NAFS-26 in June 2026 brings a new development to the North American window and door industry. For aluminum window and door buyers, the key question is not simply what has changed in the standard, but how to verify that a proposed product meets the requirements of a specific construction project. On June 1, 2026, the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA), CSA Group and the Window & Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA) announced the publication of the 2026 edition of the North American Fenestration Standard (NAFS-26). The new edition replaces NAFS-22, the previous 2022 edition. Although the update does not represent a major overhaul of the standard, it clarifies an important aspect of fenestration product ratings: the secondary designator used on product labels and test reports. For distributors, architects, contractors and developers sourcing aluminum windows and doors for projects in the United States and Canada, this update highlights an important procurement principle: a supplier's product claims should be supported by documentation that matches the project's actual performance requirements. What Is NAFS-26 and Why Does It Matter? NAFS is the North American Fenestration Standard for windows, doors and skylights. Its formal designation is AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440. The standard establishes performance requirements and testing procedures for covered fenestration products. It provides a common technical framework that manufacturers, specifiers, testing organizations and building professionals can use to evaluate product performance. NAFS is material-neutral. In other words, its performance framework is not limited to aluminum products. It can apply to covered products made from different frame materials, provided the products fall within the standard's scope. For aluminum window and door buyers, this distinction matters. Choosing an aluminum frame does not, by itself, establish whether a product is suitable for a particular building. The relevant questions include: What performance class and design pressure does the project require? What water penetration resistance criteria apply? Does the available test documentation correspond to the proposed product configuration? Which standard edition and building code govern the project? These questions are particularly important when purchasing windows and doors for commercial buildings, multi-unit residential developments and projects in areas exposed to strong winds or wind-driven rain. What Actually Changed in the 2026 Edition? According to FGIA's official announcement, the principal change in NAFS-26 concerns clarification of the secondary designator used in fenestration product ratings. Previously optional, the secondary designator is now mandatory and must appear on product test reports and labels. The clarified requirement calls for performance values covering three areas: Positive design pressure: The specified positive pressure performance value associated with the tested product. Negative design pressure: The specified negative pressure performance value associated with the tested product. Water penetration resistance test pressure: The pressure used during the applicable water penetration resistance test. The change followed concerns raised by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) about how product performance information is presented, particularly in relation to water intrusion in coastal and hurricane-prone areas. The practical significance is greater clarity in product documentation. A product's primary performance grade may not, by itself, communicate every pressure value that a project team wants to review. The secondary designator provides additional information for evaluating the product against specified requirements. However, a label or test report should not be interpreted in isolation. Buyers must still verify the product's scope, configuration, applicable ratings and acceptance requirements for the intended project. For the official technical announcement, refer to FGIA's NAFS-26 publication notice. Does NAFS-26 Apply to Every Project in the United States and Canada? No. Publication of a new standard and its adoption into applicable building codes are separate steps. This distinction is important for international buyers because the governing requirements can differ by state, province, territory, municipality and project. United States: Check the Governing Code Edition FGIA reports that the 2024 editions of the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) reference NAFS-22. The association also states that NAFS-26 will be included in the 2027 editions of these model codes. However, model codes do not automatically become mandatory in every jurisdiction on publication. States and local authorities adopt codes according to their own processes and may introduce amendments. For a project in the United States, buyers should confirm: The building code edition adopted by the relevant jurisdiction. The applicable fenestration standard and edition. The required product performance ratings. Any additional local approvals or project-specific testing requirements. For example, a project in a coastal location may have requirements that go beyond the general product specifications used for a different building in another state. The actual requirements must be established by the project's design professionals and relevant code authorities. Canada: Verify Provincial and Territorial Requirements FGIA states that the 2025 edition of the National Building Code of Canada (NBC) references NAFS-22. The association has indicated that NAFS-26 will be proposed for inclusion in the NBC's mid-cycle update. This proposal should not be interpreted as nationwide adoption of NAFS-26. Canada's model-code development process and the adoption of codes by provinces and territories involve separate steps. The applicable requirements must therefore be checked for the project location. Buyers should also confirm whether the project requires additional Canadian provisions, product evaluations or supporting documentation. The safest approach in both markets is to establish the governing requirements before selecting a product or approving a supplier's submittal. Four Checks Buyers Should Make Before Ordering Aluminum Windows and Doors The NAFS-26 update provides a useful opportunity to improve the way window and door products are evaluated during procurement. Rather than comparing quotations on price and appearance alone, project teams can use the following checks to identify potential technical gaps before an order is placed. 1. Match the Product Ratings to the Project Requirements Start with the project's drawings, specifications and applicable code requirements. Confirm the required performance class, design pressures and water penetration criteria. Where relevant, review other requirements relating to air leakage, energy performance, impact resistance or product approvals. Not every project needs the same ratings. A product suitable for one building should not automatically be assumed suitable for another. The product's dimensions, opening type, glazing, hardware and overall configuration may also affect its documented performance. 2. Review the Actual Test Reports and Product Labels A supplier's general statement that its products meet North American requirements is not a substitute for product-specific evidence. Depending on the project, request the relevant test reports, product labels, performance ratings and certification records. Check whether the documents identify the correct product series, configuration and applicable standard edition. If the proposed product differs from the tested configuration, ask the supplier and the responsible technical professional to clarify whether the documentation is acceptable. Where the project specifies NAFS-26 but a product was tested under NAFS-22, do not automatically assume either acceptance or rejection. The applicable rules, available equivalency guidance and project approval requirements must be reviewed. 3. Evaluate the Complete Window or Door System An aluminum window is more than an aluminum frame. Its performance depends on the complete system, including the frame design, glazing, seals, hardware, fabrication and installation details. The surrounding wall assembly and interfaces can also influence the building's resistance to water intrusion. This is why buyers should review the product as a complete system rather than relying on individual component specifications. For projects exposed to challenging weather conditions, confirm that the proposed product ratings match the required design conditions and that the installation details have been appropriately coordinated. A performance rating should not be treated as a guarantee against every form of leakage or damage under every possible condition. 4. Confirm Documentation Before Production Technical issues are generally easier to address before manufacturing than after products have been delivered to a construction site. Before approving the order, establish which documents are required for the project's submittal process. Confirm responsibilities for product selection, technical review, approvals and installation coordination. For overseas procurement, this step is especially important because differences in terminology, product configurations and documentation expectations can create delays. A clear approval process helps the buyer and supplier work from the same specifications before production begins. Why Supplier Evaluation Matters More Than a Low Quotation The publication of NAFS-26 does not mean that buyers should replace every existing product or automatically prefer a supplier claiming to use the latest standard. Instead, it reinforces the importance of comparing products using verifiable information. When evaluating an aluminum window and door supplier, buyers should consider the following: Evaluation area What to verify Product suitability Does the proposed system match the required opening type, dimensions and project specifications? Performance evidence Are relevant ratings and supporting documents available? Configuration control Do the drawings, glazing, hardware and tested configuration align? Technical coordination Can the supplier clarify specifications and respond to document-review questions? Production and quality Are inspection procedures and order-specific quality checks documented? Project delivery Are packaging, shipping schedules and installation coordination clearly defined? A lower quotation may still be the right choice when the product and service meet the project's requirements. The important point is to compare equivalent specifications rather than assuming that two visually similar products offer equivalent performance. For developers, contractors and distributors, this approach can reduce uncertainty during procurement and help identify documentation gaps before they affect project schedules. How to Prepare an Aluminum Window and Door Specification for North American Projects Before requesting quotations, buyers can prepare a concise project information package. Include the project location, building type, window and door schedule, approximate dimensions, glazing requirements, expected exposure conditions and any specified performance ratings. If the project documentation names a particular NAFS edition or certification requirement, include that information explicitly. The supplier can then review the proposed product configuration and identify the supporting documentation available for technical evaluation. Where requirements are unclear, the project architect, engineer or other responsible professional should determine the applicable criteria before the product is approved. For manufacturers and overseas suppliers, this process also provides a clearer basis for assessing whether a proposed product can meet the project's requirements without unsupported assumptions. How APRO Supports Aluminum Window and Door Project Discussions At APRO, selecting an aluminum window or door system for a construction project should begin with the project's intended application, dimensions and technical specifications. For distributors, contractors, architects and developers, the goal is to establish a suitable product configuration and clarify the technical information needed before an order is finalized. Buyers preparing a project in the United States or Canada can share their drawings, opening schedule, location and stated performance requirements for an initial product discussion. The relevant product specifications and supporting documentation should then be reviewed against the project's requirements. Any claim relating to NAFS testing, certification or code compliance must be supported by applicable product-specific evidence. Planning an aluminum window or door project in North America? Contact APRO to discuss your project requirements and available product documentation. Frequently Asked Questions What is the difference between NAFS-22 and NAFS-26? NAFS-26 is the 2026 edition of the North American Fenestration Standard and supersedes NAFS-22. FGIA identifies the clarification of the secondary designator as the principal change in the new edition. Is NAFS-26 mandatory for all aluminum windows in the United States? No. Whether a particular edition is required depends on the applicable building code, jurisdictional adoption, project specifications and relevant approval requirements. Does Canada require all window suppliers to use NAFS-26? The publication of NAFS-26 does not establish a uniform nationwide requirement. Buyers should check the applicable provincial or territorial code and project documentation. What is a secondary designator in NAFS-26? It is an additional designation in fenestration product ratings. Under the clarified NAFS-26 requirement, the designation must be included on product test reports and labels, with specified values for positive design pressure, negative design pressure and water penetration resistance test pressure. Does an aluminum window comply with NAFS-26 simply because it has a strong frame? No. Material and appearance alone do not establish compliance. Buyers need to evaluate the relevant product configuration, documented performance and applicable project requirements. What should I request from an aluminum window manufacturer? Depending on the project, request product specifications, applicable test reports, performance ratings, labels, certification records and installation documentation. The final document list should be based on the governing code and project specifications. Should buyers replace products tested under NAFS-22? Not automatically. Acceptance depends on the applicable requirements and whether the existing documentation is acceptable for the project. Buyers should obtain clarification from the relevant technical professional or approval authority. Final Thoughts NAFS-26 is a relevant development for the North American fenestration industry, but its most useful lesson for buyers is practical: product selection should be based on documented performance and the requirements that apply to the actual project. For aluminum window and door procurement, checking the governing code, reviewing the relevant product documentation and confirming the proposed configuration before production can help reduce uncertainty and improve coordination. As NAFS-26 moves through the model-code and jurisdictional adoption process, buyers should continue to follow official updates rather than assume that one publication date establishes a universal compliance deadline. Official references FGIA — 2026 North American Fenestration Standard Published ANSI Webstore — AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440-2026 National Research Council Canada — National Model Codes Development System

Australian Aluminum double glazing Windows & Double Doors Project Case Study: Energy-Efficient Solutions by best Chinese foctory.  The  double glazing Windows & Double Doors Project is the second apartment in Sydney. In this project case study, we manufacture customized thermal break aluminum windows and doors helped an Australian residential project improve energy efficiency, weather resistance, and overall living comfort. Project Name Luxury Residential Villa Project Location Sydney, Australia Building Style Modern Minimalist Apartment Architecture Project Scale fifteen floors Products Supplied Thermal Break Aluminum Sliding Doors Double Glazed Aluminum Windows Lift & Slide Patio Doors Aluminum Awning Windows Fixed Glass Curtain Wall System Project Challenges 1. Coastal Weather Resistance Australia’s coastal environments can accelerate corrosion on low-quality metal systems. Standard window materials often fail after years of exposure to salt air and humidity. 2. Energy Efficiency Compliance Australian residential projects increasingly focus on energy-saving building standards. Poor-performing windows can significantly increase indoor cooling costs during summer. 3. Large Opening Structural Stability The villa design included oversized sliding doors and full-height glazing systems, requiring strong structural performance without compromising aesthetics. Our Factory Provided Customized Window and Door Solutions In order to meet the project requirements,  our professional salesman Salla  submitted a pretty  aluminum doors and windows ptoducts lists ,which is a fully customized thermal break aluminum system. Thermal Break Aluminum Frames The project adopted PA66 thermal break technology to reduce heat transfer between indoor and outdoor environments. This helped improve insulation performance while reducing energy consumption. Benefits included: Better indoor temperature stability Reduced HVAC costs Improved comfort in both summer and winter Double Glazed Low-E Glass System The windows used double-glazed insulated glass combined with Low-E coating technology. Performance Advantages UV reduction Improved acoustic insulation Enhanced thermal efficiency Reduced solar heat gain This configuration is especially important for Australian homes exposed to strong sunlight throughout the year. High-Performance Sliding Door System The villa utilized large lift-and-slide aluminum doors connecting the living room to the outdoor terrace. Key Features Smooth heavy-duty roller system Multi-point locking mechanism Weather-resistant sealing strips Slim sightline aluminum profile The final system successfully combined luxury aesthetics with structural reliability. Wind Load & Water Tightness Testing Before production, the aluminum systems underwent performance testing for: Wind pressure resistance Air tightness Water penetration resistance Structural deformation This ensured the products complied with Australian building performance requirements for coastal residential applications. Final Project Results After installation, the client reported significant improvements in overall living experience. Project Outcomes Reduced indoor heat transfer Better sound insulation Improved natural lighting Modern architectural appearance Excellent weather resistance performance The large panoramic openings also created seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces, which are highly valued in Australian modern home design.