The American Window and Door Institute (AWDI)

When it comes to vinyl replacement windows or installing windows, you should deal with a Certified Installer. The American Window and Door Institute (AWDI) Certification Program for window and door installation is a true certification program. Rather than just a "testing" procedure or a "grandfathered" experience acknowledgement, the AWDI Installer Certification Program relies on 5 parts:

Regulated Training and/or Demonstrable Field Experience: Through either standardized AWDI accredited installation training, and/or field experience in actual successful installations with verified references, the installer substantiates knowledge and capabilities through an extensive testing procedure.

Required On-going Skill Improvement: Constant improvement in both the necessary skills and product knowledge, and improvement in the process of customer service is also a goal in the AWDI Certification program.

Industry Consensus Accepted Installation Guidelines: The AWDI Installation Guidelines are dedicated to getting consistent results from consistent products, and consistent procedures when windows are installed in inconsistent openings. Through research and industry consensus, the AWDI Guidelines deal with eliminating the chance for problems rather than dealing with how to fix problems.

Field Testing/Observance of Individual Installer's Skills: During the first 120 days of temporary certification, each installer is subject to observation during an actual installation, at which time he can be graded on technique, skill, and results.

Standardized Manufacturer's Installation Instructions: Each manufacturer's product may require slightly different parts or techniques to effect proper installation. Using a standardized form, AWDI helps provide the installer with familiar installation instructions, even when the product manufacturer has differences in tools, mounting parts, or techniques.

The result? A qualified installer who will make sure that the products installed will work right, because they've been installed right.

The American Window & Door Institute set out in 1988 to accomplish these tasks:

1. Define installation as inseparable from the performance of the window and door product.
2. Create a method of comparison and impartial aid and information to the manufacturer, dealer/installer, and consumer for window and door installation.
3. Industry accepted guidelines for the installation of windows used for retrofit, replacement or remodeling. These guidelines are designed to be used by professional installers and provide an installation that complements the quality and life expectancy of the product being installed.
4. Enhanced consumer confidence when doing business with an AWDI member firm using AWDI accepted products and procedures.
5. Provide a means for manufacturers to publicize and enforce their preferred installation methods in compliance with Subsection 2-315 of the Uniform Commercial Code.
6. Provide an industry forum for the evaluation, testing, and refinement of installation guidelines for all window and door products.
7. Provide a resource and training center for the Window and Door Industry.

With the aid of representatives of D.O.E., the NWWDA, and general industry consensus, AWDI succeeded in establishing Installation Recommended Guidelines and Standards for the Installation of Residential Windows. These standards have been recommended to architects, manufacturers, dealers, and installers through industry media and association recognition.

In 1989, AWDI established the industry's first Residential Window Installation Certification program. AWDI created a manual for replacement products and established a written test.

The result is a successful program where experienced and qualified installers can be certified, bringing with the certification recognition, pride, and quality in the installation of residential replacement windows.