Window Film and Tint: Title 24 Requirements

Adding window film is listed as an alteration, but film earns compliance credit only through the performance method, with an NFRC film label and a manufacturer warranty of at least 15 years. A film with no rating takes default values, so there is no credit to claim. Factory-tinted glass is a different product.

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Film is an alteration, not a repair

The manual's list of alterations includes "adding window film". Section 100.1 describes film as an adhesive-backed polymer applied to the interior or exterior surface of existing glazing. Whether your building department wants paperwork for it is its decision, covered on the window replacement permit page.

What earns credit

The manual's 2022 text, which the 2025 manual still points to, sets three conditions: the performance approach must be used, each film needs an NFRC window film energy performance label, and the film must carry at least a 15-year manufacturer warranty. In the calculation, Table 150.2-G compares a film-covered window with a code-level window (Section 150.1(c)3A). With third-party verification the existing glass is instead modelled from Tables 110.6-A and 110.6-B.

An unrated film

Notes to both default tables say a window with film that is not rated by NFRC takes the table values. Those tables are organised by frame, pane count and tint, not by film, so an unrated film adds no credit. A film-covered double-pane window defaults to an SHGC no lower than 0.53, far above 0.23.

On the job

Appendix RA4.2.2.2 asks the installer to check the temporary NFRC label on the box against the compliance documents and the orientation schedule, and to record the NFRC directory number on the installation certificate. Installation follows the International Window Film Association visual inspection standard of 21 August 2018. At occupancy the owner gets a film sample of 8 by 10 inches with its specification sheet and the 15-year warranty certificate.

Tint in the glass

Tinted glass is a glazing type with its own rows. For double-pane operable nonmetal windows the default SHGC is 0.65 clear and 0.53 tinted, so tint helps the default but still misses 0.23. A rated low-SHGC product is the route.

For the numbers films are measured against, read U-factor vs SHGC; see new windows and Title 24 as well. Our residential reports run the performance method.

Common Title 24 Questions

  1. When is Title 24 required for a home?
  2. Does a remodel need Title 24?
  3. Does a room addition need Title 24?
  4. What plans are needed for a residential Title 24 report?
  5. How much does a residential Title 24 report cost?
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Frequently Asked Questions

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