One of our most common Code Coach case questions received is “What do I need for a Window Replacement?” or “How do I fill out this form?”. “This form” being a reference to the CF1R-ALT-05-E, “Prescriptive Residential Alterations that do not require HERS Field Verification”. When a project’s scope is solely a window replacement, this is the simplest document to follow to meet the CA 2022 Energy Code.
This guide will walk you through the process of completing a Prescriptive CF1R form for a window replacement project. If you’re on the staff side of the building department counter, the following steps may help your customers accurately complete this potentially daunting form.
Step 1: Gather Necessary Information
Before you begin filling out the CF1R form, collect all relevant information about your project:
- Property address and owner details
- Permit number and date
- Details of the existing windows (size, type, and quantity)
- Specifications of the new windows (U-factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), and size)
Step 2: Completing the CF1R-ALT-05-E Form
The form is downloadable in fillable PDF format from the link below. The document is 25 pages long; however, pages 13-25 are User Instructions detailing how to complete each row. Although long, the instructions are set up line-by-line and are very helpful. Additionally, not all the 12 fillable pages are necessary for a simple window replacement scope, as outlined below.
Project Details and Table A. General Information
Complete both sections with the project information from the architectural sheets for consistency. The majority of the information is standard for project information. Row 09, Climate Zone, is referencing the California Climate Zones, not ASHRAE. Use the following link to look up your project’s climate zone if it isn’t known.
Section B & C: Building Insulation and Roof Replacement
Neither of these sections are applicable for a window replacement, mark them as N/A.
Section D: Fenestration Allowed Areas and Efficiencies
This section determines how much glass is allowed and minimum performance specifications using the Prescriptive Non-HERS method. Reference Page 17 in the document, (5 of 13 in the User Guide), to see the percentages or maximum area limits that need to be calculated and input into Section D.
List the minimum requirements for the new windows, including:
- Allowable window area: Calculate the total allowable window area by multiplying the house’s total conditioned floor area by 20%.
- U-Factor: This measures the window’s insulating properties. Ensure the new windows have a U-Factor that is equal to or less than the maximum, which is typically .30 for windows.
- SHGC: The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient measures how much solar radiation the window allows. Make sure the new windows have a SHGC that is equal to or less than the maximum allowed, typically .23.
Section E: Fenestration Proposed Areas and Efficiencies – Add
If you are Adding square footage of glass beyond the existing amount, this table is where you will input the new windows. The information needed includes frame type, orientation, number of panes (e.g., single glazed, double glazed), area of the window, U-Factor and SHGC.
Table E-2 lists much of the same information but provides a ‘compliance check’ confirming that the proposed windows meet the code requirements from Section D.
If you are only replacing windows, mark this section N/A. If you are adding windows, complete the table, adding additional sheets as needed.
Section F: Fenestration Proposed Areas and Efficiencies – Replace
Almost identical to the section above in required input, the major difference being you need to calculate the Area Removed, Added, and the Net Added Area. For a window replacement, this input should be zero, and this is confirmed on Table F-2 as well.
If you are only adding windows, mark this section N/A.
Section G & H: Space Conditioning & Water Heating Systems
Neither of these sections are applicable for a window replacement, mark them as N/A.
Signature Page
The last page requires signatures from the Documentation Author, who is the individual completing the form itself, and the Responsible Designer, who is typically the architect, builder, or, in some cases, the homeowner.
Conclusion
Completing the Prescriptive CF1R form for a window replacement may seem daunting, but with careful attention to detail and adherence to the form’s included User Instructions referenced in this guide, you can ensure compliance with California’s Building Energy Efficiency Standards. Properly filled forms contribute to the successful and timely approval of your project.
For more information and in-person trainings, please check out our events calendar at 3c-ren.org/calendar-of-events-and-trainings
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And feel free to reach out to the Code Coach Hotline for more information or to have your Energy Code or CALGreen questions answered! 3c-ren.org/energy-code-coach
