CRSC · California Referenced Standards Code

What must a manufacturer submit to certify insulation for sale in California?

Before selling insulation in California a manufacturer must submit a signed certification statement to the Executive Director that identifies the product, includes approved‑lab test results, describes QA/testing to ensure all product complies, declares compliance, and supplies seal wording if used; the agency will acknowledge within 45 days or certification is deemed effective on the 45th day (see § 12-13-1555).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

Manufacturers must submit a written certification statement to the Executive Director certifying each type of insulating material before the product may be sold or installed in California; the rule is set out in § 12-13-1555. That statement must identify the manufacturer and product, include test results from an approved laboratory, describe the manufacturer’s system to ensure ongoing compliance, include a declaration of compliance, and provide the wording of any certification seal (if used) — all items listed in § 12-13-1555(b). The certification must be dated and signed by a responsible official, and certification is acknowledged (or deemed) within 45 days of receipt per § 12-13-1555(c)–(e).

The single most important rule: No insulation may be sold or installed in California unless the manufacturer has submitted and signed a certification statement meeting the items required by § 12-13-1555.

Requirements in detail

Who must submit

  • The manufacturer of each type of insulating material must submit one certification statement for that type. § 12-13-1555(a)–(b).

Where to submit

  • The certification statement is submitted to the Executive Director (the Commission’s Executive Director) as specified in § 12-13-1555(b).

What the statement must contain (required elements)

The statute lists six mandatory contents for every certification statement; bolded items below are required terms or thresholds:

  • Manufacturer name — identify who is certifying. § 12-13-1555(b)(1).
  • A description of the type of insulating material sufficient to permit identification (brochures, data sheets, sample label, etc.). § 12-13-1555(b)(2).
  • Test results from an approved laboratory (see approved-lab rules elsewhere). § 12-13-1555(b)(3).
  • A description of the basis for ensuring all product of that type complies — e.g., testing frequency, quality assurance program, and any third-party inspections/testing. § 12-13-1555(b)(4).
  • A declaration that the insulating material complies with the article’s requirements. § 12-13-1555(b)(5).
  • Wording of the certification seal, but only if the seal consists of a statement pursuant to Section 1557(b)(2). § 12-13-1555(b)(6).

Formalities and timing

  • Every certification statement must be dated and signed by the manufacturer (or a responsible official if a corporation/association). § 12-13-1555(c).
  • The Executive Director will acknowledge receipt and face-completeness within 45 days; certification is deemed to occur when that acknowledgement is sent, or on the 45th day after receipt if no timely acknowledgement is sent. § 12-13-1555(d)–(e).

Use of prior test results

  • The required statement of test results may use tests conducted before the Article’s adoption only if three conditions are met:
    1. the same test was conducted within two years of the adoption date,
    2. the laboratory that conducted the tests was approved for those tests at the date of certification, and
    3. the laboratory certifies that the test and product are the same as those referred to in the statement. § 12-13-1555(f).

Quick reference table (decision‑relevant items)

Decision dimension Required value / content Code reference
Who files Manufacturer (for each type of insulating material) § 12-13-1555(a)–(b)
Recipient Executive Director § 12-13-1555(b)
Product ID Description sufficient to permit identification (sheets, brochures, sample label) § 12-13-1555(b)(2)
Laboratory data Test results from an approved laboratory § 12-13-1555(b)(3)
QA description Testing frequency, QA program, third‑party inspections/testing § 12-13-1555(b)(4)
Declaration Statement that material complies § 12-13-1555(b)(5)
Certification seal wording Provide wording if seal is a statement under § 12-13-1557(b)(2) § 12-13-1555(b)(6)
Signature & date Dated and signed by manufacturer/responsible official § 12-13-1555(c)
Acknowledgement window 45 days (acknowledgement or deemed certification) § 12-13-1555(d)–(e)
Use of prior tests Prior tests OK if within two years, lab approved, and lab certifies test/product match § 12-13-1555(f)

Exceptions & special cases

  • Prior test results: as noted, prior testing may be used only under the three conditions in § 12-13-1555(f) (including the two‑year limit). Do not assume older tests are acceptable without the lab’s certification and approval status.
  • Certification is done per product type — if you have multiple constructions or facings that change identification, submit separate certification statements for each type unless you provide documentation supporting grouping (see related quality‑standards provisions). § 12-13-1555(b); related rules on testing/grouping appear elsewhere in Article 3.
  • If you intend to use a certification seal that is a statement as described in § 12-13-1557(b)(2), include the exact wording in the submission as required by § 12-13-1555(b)(6).

If you need guidance on whether a specific prior test or product grouping qualifies, the Executive Director’s acknowledgment and the Article’s other sections (e.g., lab approval and test procedures) control; see Related provisions below.

Common mistakes

  • Submitting an unsigned or undated statement (must be dated and signed by a responsible official) — § 12-13-1555(c).
  • Omitting test results from an approved laboratory or submitting results from a lab that is not approved for the relevant test — § 12-13-1555(b)(3) and lab‑approval rules elsewhere.
  • Failing to include a clear product description (insufficient identification delays acceptance) — § 12-13-1555(b)(2).
  • Not describing the quality assurance/testing frequency or third‑party inspection approach — § 12-13-1555(b)(4).
  • Assuming certification is immediate — the statute provides for an acknowledgement within 45 days and sets out when certification is deemed effective. § 12-13-1555(d)–(e).

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: Acme Insulation Co. wishes to certify a new fiberglass batt product "FiberMax-3.5" for sale in California.

  1. Prepare one certification statement for the product type FiberMax-3.5 with:

    • Manufacturer name: Acme Insulation Co. (required by § 12-13-1555(b)(1)).
    • Product description: data sheet and sample label showing thickness, facing, and packaging format so the Executive Director can identify the type (§ 12-13-1555(b)(2)).
    • Test results: include laboratory test reports showing thermal performance and any required combustion tests from an approved laboratory (per § 12-13-1555(b)(3)). If those tests were done earlier, confirm they meet the three conditions in § 12-13-1555(f) (e.g., test within two years and lab approval).
    • QA description: state the sampling plan and testing frequency (e.g., monthly QC test of production lots, 3rd‑party inspection twice yearly) to meet § 12-13-1555(b)(4).
    • Declaration of compliance and the exact wording of any certification seal (if using one in the package labeling per § 12-13-1555(b)(5)–(6)).
    • Sign and date the statement by a responsible official (CEO or plant manager) — § 12-13-1555(c).

  2. Submit the statement to the Executive Director and keep originals of test reports and QA documentation available in case of inspection. Expect an acknowledgement within 45 days; if none is received, certification will be deemed effective on the 45th day after receipt (§ 12-13-1555(d)–(e)).

Related provisions

  • § 12-13-1554 — Approval of testing laboratories (what constitutes an “approved laboratory”).
  • § 12-13-1553 — Quality standards and testing procedures (test conditions, representative thickness, thermal performance rules).
  • § 12-13-1557 — Identification and labeling requirements (Commission‑approved statement/seal on packaging).
  • § 12-13-1558 — Inspections and sample procurement by the Commission.
  • § 12-13-1556 — Quality assurance (reserved / repealed language in the Article).

(Each of the related provisions above is within the same Article 3 set of rules; consult those sections for test methods, laboratory approval criteria, and labeling specifics.)

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Referenced Standards Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CRSC § 8-10 High relevance — show source text

    (b) Up to and including September 30, 1982, laboratories shall be approved either upon accreditation by the United States Department of Commerce National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program or as stated in the preceding paragraph, at the manufacturer’s option. After September 30, 1982, laboratories shall only be approved upon accreditation by the United States Department of Commerce National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Sections 25915(a) and 25921, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment filed 8-10-81, designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    CERTIFICATION

    Sec. 12-13-1555.

    (a) No insulating material shall be sold or installed in California on or after September 22, 1981, unless the manufacturer has certified that the material complies with the provisions of this article.

    (b) The manufacturer shall submit a certification statement to the Executive Director for each type of insulating material. Such statement shall contain the following information:

    1. Name of the manufacturer.

    2. A description of the type of insulating material being certified in sufficient detail to permit its identification. The description may include information sheets, brochures, a sample label for the product or similar information.

    3. Test results from an approved laboratory.

    4. A description of the basis for ensuring that all the insulating material of the type being certified complies with the requirements of this article. Such description shall include, but not be limited to a description of the frequency of testing of the material, the quality assurance program, and any third-party inspections or testing used by the manufacturer.

    5. A declaration that the insulating material complies with the requirements of this article.

    6. The wording of the certification seal, if such seal consists of a statement pursuant to Section 1557 (b) (2) of this article.

    (c) Every certification statement shall be dated and signed by the manufacturer attesting to its truth and accuracy. Where the manufacturer is either a corporation or a business association, the certification statement shall be dated, signed and attested to by a responsible official thereof.

    (d) Within 45 days after receipt of a certification statement, the Executive Director shall forward, to the manufacturer, an acknowledgment that the statement has been received and that it is complete and accurate on its face.

    (e) Certification of the insulation material shall be deemed to occur upon forwarding of the acknowledgement by the Executive Director. If acknowledgment is not forwarded in a timely manner, certification shall be deemed to occur on the 45th day after receipt of the certification statement.

    (f) The statement of test results required in the certification may be based upon tests conducted prior to the adoptive date of this article if: (1) the same test was conducted within two years of the date of adoption, (2) the laboratory at which the tests were

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    conducted has been approved for those tests as of the date of the certification statement, and (3) the laboratory certifies that the test and product are the same as the test and product referred to in the statement of test results.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Sections 25921 and 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

  • CRSC § 25920-25922 High relevance — show source text

    Authority: Sections 25402(a) and 25920, Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Sections 25920-25922, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsection (a) (9) filed 4-2-79; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 79, No. 14).
    2. Editorial correction of subsection designations with subsection (l) (4) (Register 79, No. 17).
    3. Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
    4. New subsection (m) (2) (J) filed 9-11-81; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 81, No. 37).
    5. Editorial correction of subsection (k) (3) (B) filed 1-13-82 (Register 82, No. 3).
    6. Amendment of subsections (a) (5) and (a) (8) filed 5-5-82; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 82, No. 19).
    7. Editorial correction of subsection (m) printing error (Register 82, No. 44).

    APPROVAL OF TESTING LABORATORIES

    Sec. 12-13-1554.

    (a) Except as provided in subsection (b), laboratories shall be approved using the procedures described in the Criteria for the Approval of Testing Laboratories, dated October 27, 1978. The Executive Director shall approve any laboratory that meets the standards described in the Criteria for the Approval of Testing Laboratories, dated October 27, 1978. A testing laboratory shall have the right to appeal to the full Commission any denial of approval by the Executive Director.

    (b) Up to and including September 30, 1982, laboratories shall be approved either upon accreditation by the United States Department of Commerce National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program or as stated in the preceding paragraph, at the manufacturer’s option. After September 30, 1982, laboratories shall only be approved upon accreditation by the United States Department of Commerce National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Sections 25915(a) and 25921, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment filed 8-10-81, designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    CERTIFICATION

    Sec. 12-13-1555.

    (a) No insulating material shall be sold or installed in California on or after September 22, 1981, unless the manufacturer has certified that the material complies with the provisions of this article.

    (b) The manufacturer shall submit a certification statement to the Executive Director for each type of insulating material. Such statement shall contain the following information:

    1. Name of the manufacturer.

    2. A description of the type of insulating material being certified in sufficient detail to permit its identification. The description may include information sheets, brochures, a sample label for the product or similar information.

    3. Test results from an approved laboratory.

    4. A description of the basis for ensuring that all the insulating material of the type being certified complies with the requirements of this article. Such description shall include, but not be limited to a description of the frequency of testing of the material, the quality assurance program, and any third-party inspections or testing used by the manufacturer.

    5. A declaration that the insulating material complies with the requirements of this article.

  • CRSC § 55143-55148. High relevance — show source text

    STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL

    1. Exemption. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, a manufacturer of the primary components of urea formaldehyde foam insulation may apply for certification as provided in Section 1555 of this article. Such certification statement shall indicate compliance with the following standards: A. Composition. The material shall consist of cellular plastic generated in a continuous stream by mixing the components which are a urea formaldehyde resin, air and a foaming agent. The material shall be suitable for filling closed cavities through small holes and suitable also for filling open cavities by trowelling during foaming prior to enclosure. B. Thermal performance. The effective thermal performance, incorporating a derating value, shall be determined according to the method described in 42 Fed. Reg. pages 55143-55148. C. Resistance to combustion. Surface-burning characteristics shall be determined according to the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 and shall not exceed the following values:

    Flame spread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Smoke developed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .450 Test specimens shall be aged for 45 days at 70°F ± 5°F and 35 to 40 percent relative humidity before testing. D. Free formaldehyde content of dry foam. The free formaldehyde content of the dry foam shall be less than 0.01 percent formaldehyde by weight when tested as specified in paragraph (f) (8), published in 45 Fed. Reg. page 63801, except that the specimens to be tested shall also be aged for 56 days at 24 ± 5°C (75 ± 10°F) and 50 ± 10 percent relative humidity in an uncovered beaker. E. Corrosiveness. The material shall be tested and shall meet the criteria for corrosiveness as specified in 45 Fed. Reg. pages 63786-63810. F. Density. The material shall be tested and shall meet the criteria for density as specified in 45 Fed. Reg. pages 6378663810.

    G. Shrinkage. The material shall be tested and meet the criteria for shrinkage as specified in 45 Fed. Reg. pages 6378663810, except that the material shall not shrink more than 2.0 percent in any direction. H. Volume resistivity. The material shall be tested and meet the criteria for volume resistivity as specified in 45 Fed. Reg. pages 63786-63810. I. Identification. Resin and foaming agent containers shall be marked with conditions of proper storage and the derated R -value and shrinkage of the prepared foam as certified by the manufacturer. J. Safety information. Installers of urea formaldehyde foam insulation shall present the following safety notice to the purchasers of the foam prior to the signing of the contract for installation. The notice shall be printed in a minimum of 8-point type size. One copy of the notice signed by the purchaser shall be immediately given to the purchaser, one copy shall be retained by the installer and one copy shall be mailed by the installer to the Executive Director of the Energy Commission within 48 hours after installation of the insulation is completed.

  • CRSC § 110.8 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 110.8—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR INSULATION, ROOFING PRODUCTS AND RADIANT BARRIERS

    (a) Insulation certification by manufacturers. All insulation shall be certified by Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Household Goods and Services that the insulation conductive thermal performance is approved pursuant to the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 12, Chapters 12 – 13, Article 3, “Standards for Insulating Material.”

    (b) Installation of urea formaldehyde foam insulation. Urea formaldehyde foam insulation may be applied or installed only if:

    1. It is installed in exterior side walls; and

    2. A 4-mil-thick plastic polyethylene vapor retarder or equivalent plastic sheathing vapor retarder is installed between the urea formaldehyde foam insulation and the interior space in all applications.

    (c) Flamespread rating of insulation. All insulating material shall be installed in compliance with the flamespread rating and smoke density requirements of the CBC.

    (d) Installation of insulation in existing buildings. Insulation installed in an existing attic, or on an existing duct or water heater, shall comply with the applicable requirements of Subsections 1, 2 and 3 below. If a contractor installs the insulation, the contractor shall certify to the customer, in writing, that the insulation meets the applicable requirements of Subsections 1, 2 and 3 below.

    1. Attics. If insulation is installed in the existing attic of a low-rise residential building, the R -value of the total amount of insulation (after addition of insulation to the amount, if any, already in the attic) shall meet the requirements of Section 150.0(a) for single-family buildings and Section 180.2(a)1 for multifamily buildings three habitable stories or fewer. Exception to Section 110.8(d)1: Where the accessible space in the attic is not large enough to accommodate the required R -value, the entire accessible space shall be filled with insulation, provided such installation does not violate Section 1202.2 of Title 24, Part 2 or Section 806 of Title 24, Part 2.5.
    2. Water heaters. If external insulation is installed on an existing unfired water storage tank or on an existing back-up tank for a solar water-heating system, it shall have an R -value of at least R-3.5, or the heat loss of the tank surface based on an 80°F water-air temperature difference shall be less than 6.5 Btu per hour per square foot.
    3. Ducts. If insulation is installed on an existing space-conditioning duct, it shall comply with Section 605.0 of the CMC.

    (e) Reserved.

    (f) Reserved.

    (g) Insulation requirements for heated slab floors. Heated slab floors shall be insulated according to the requirements in Table 110.8-A.

    1. Insulation materials in ground contact must: A. Comply with the certification requirements of Section 110.8(a); and B. Have a water absorption rate for the insulation material alone without facings that is no greater than 0.3 percent when tested in accordance with Test Method A – 24 Hour-Immersion of ASTM C272.

    C. Water vapor permeance no greater than 2.0 perm/ inch when tested in accordance with ASTM E96.

    1. Insulation installation must:
  • CRSC § 205.1.2 High relevance — show source text

    A6.205.1.2 Installation of field-fabricated fenestration and exterior doors. Field-fabricated fenestration and field-fabricated exterior doors may be installed only if the compliance documentation has demonstrated compliance for the installation using U factors from Table A6.205.1-A and SHGC values from Table A6.205.1-B. Field-fabricated fenestration and field-fabricated exterior doors shall be caulked between the fenestration products or exterior door and the building and shall be weatherstripped.

    Exception: Unframed glass doors and fire doors need not be weatherstripped or caulked.

    A6.205.2 Joints and other openings. Joints and other openings in the building envelope that are potential sources of air leakage shall be caulked, gasketed, weatherstripped or otherwise sealed to limit infiltration and exfiltration.

    A6.205.3 Insulation and roofing products.

    A6.205.3.1 Certification by manufacturers. Any insulation shall be certified by Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Household Good and Services that the insulation conductive thermal performance is approved pursuant to the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 12, Chapters 12-13, Article 3,“Standards for Insulating Material.”

    A6.205.3.2 Installation of urea formaldehyde foam insulation. Urea formaldehyde foam insulation may be applied or installed only if:

    1. It is installed in exterior side walls; and

    2. A four-mil-thick plastic polyethylene vapor barrier or equivalent plastic sheathing vapor barrier is installed between the urea formaldehyde foam insulation and the interior space in all applications.

    A6.205.3.3 Flame spread rating. All insulating material shall be installed in compliance with the flame spread rating and smoke density requirements of the Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code.

    A6.205.3.4 Installation of insulation in existing buildings. Insulation installed in an existing attic or on an existing duct or water heater, shall comply with the applicable requirements of Subsections A6.205.3.4.1, A6.205.3.4.2 and A6.205.3.4.3 below. If a contractor installs the insulation, the contractor shall certify to the customer, in writing, that the insulation meets the applicable requirements of Subsections A6.205.3.4.1, A6.205.3.4.2 and A6.205.3.4.3 below.

    A6.205.3.4.1 Attics. If insulation is installed in the existing attic of a low-rise residential building, the R-value of the total amount of insulation (after addition of insulation to the amount, if any, already in the attic) shall be at least R-38 in climate zones 1 and 16; and R-30 in all other climate zones.

    Exception: Where the accessible space in the attic is not large enough to accommodate the required R-value, the entire accessible space shall be filled with insulation provided such installation does not violate Section 1203.2 of Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code.

  • CRSC § 25921.1 High relevance — show source text
    1. A declaration that the insulating material complies with the requirements of this article.
    2. The wording of the certification seal, if such seal consists of a statement pursuant to Section 1557 (b) (2) of this article.

    (c) Every certification statement shall be dated and signed by the manufacturer attesting to its truth and accuracy. Where the manufacturer is either a corporation or a business association, the certification statement shall be dated, signed and attested to by a responsible official thereof.

    (d) Within 45 days after receipt of a certification statement, the Executive Director shall forward, to the manufacturer, an acknowledgment that the statement has been received and that it is complete and accurate on its face.

    (e) Certification of the insulation material shall be deemed to occur upon forwarding of the acknowledgement by the Executive Director. If acknowledgment is not forwarded in a timely manner, certification shall be deemed to occur on the 45th day after receipt of the certification statement.

    (f) The statement of test results required in the certification may be based upon tests conducted prior to the adoptive date of this article if: (1) the same test was conducted within two years of the date of adoption, (2) the laboratory at which the tests were

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    conducted has been approved for those tests as of the date of the certification statement, and (3) the laboratory certifies that the test and product are the same as the test and product referred to in the statement of test results.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Sections 25921 and 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsections (a), (b) (4), (b) (6) and (f) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    QUALITY ASSURANCE (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1556.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    IDENTIFICATION

    Sec. 12-13-1557.

    (a) Except as specified in subsection (b), Item 3, of this section, no insulation shall be sold in California on or after September 22, 1981, unless the insulating material, container, bundle or similar packaging material bears a visible Commission approved statement certifying that a representative sample of the insulation material has been tested and approved by an approved laboratory and complies with the requirements of this article.

    (b) The Commission-approved statement shall consist of either:

    1. A design or statement approved by the Executive Director, or

    2. An identification of the manufacturer and any statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California.

    3. A statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California included in the bill of lading shall meet the requirements of this section only if the product is being shipped in bulk, or the container or product is not otherwise labeled by the manufacturer and the product is being sold to its ultimate user.

  • CRSC § 25921.1 High relevance — show source text

    Reference: Sections 25921 and 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsections (a), (b) (4), (b) (6) and (f) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    QUALITY ASSURANCE (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1556.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    IDENTIFICATION

    Sec. 12-13-1557.

    (a) Except as specified in subsection (b), Item 3, of this section, no insulation shall be sold in California on or after September 22, 1981, unless the insulating material, container, bundle or similar packaging material bears a visible Commission approved statement certifying that a representative sample of the insulation material has been tested and approved by an approved laboratory and complies with the requirements of this article.

    (b) The Commission-approved statement shall consist of either:

    1. A design or statement approved by the Executive Director, or

    2. An identification of the manufacturer and any statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California.

    3. A statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California included in the bill of lading shall meet the requirements of this section only if the product is being shipped in bulk, or the container or product is not otherwise labeled by the manufacturer and the product is being sold to its ultimate user.

    (c) Any representation of thermal performance which appear on any label, literature, advertising or any other writing intended for the public shall be consistent with the certification testing results and derating required by this article.

    (d) Any insulation with facings and membranes for which the flame spread exceeds 25 when tested with facings and membranes exposed to the flame during the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 test must be clearly labeled with a statement that the product may be highly combustible if used in an exposed application. This subsection shall not apply to any product meeting the requirements of Sections 2602.1-2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25921, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsections (a) and (c) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    INSPECTIONS

    Sec. 12-13-1558.

    After September 22, 1981, the Commission may, upon the consent of the owner or lessee, or upon securing a search warrant, have access, during normal working hours, to the premises of manufacturers, distributors and retailers of insulating material sold for installation within the state for the purpose of determining compliance with the standards promulgated pursuant to Chapter 10.5 of the California Public Resources Code . Such access shall be for the purposes of obtaining representative samples of subject insulation and inspecting records and documents pertaining to tests by approved testing labs.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

  • CRSC § 2602.1 High relevance — show source text
    1. Resistance to combustion.

    A. The material shall be tested to meet the requirements of Sections 2602.1-2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code, with the additional provision that the surface-burning characteristics shall be determined according to ANSI/ASTM E84-79 and shall not exceed the following values:

    Flame spread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Smoke developed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 450 B. This subsection shall not apply to any product recognized by the International Conference of Building Officials, as of the date of adoption of this article, as complying with Sections 2602.1-2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code based solely upon diversified testing. The manufacturer of any product which is recognized by the International Conference of Building Officials, subsequent to the date of approval of these regulations, as complying with Sections 2602.12602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code based solely upon diversified testing, may petition the Commission for an exemption of that product from the provisions of this subsection. 5. Identification. Foam containers shall state the conditions of proper storage.

    (m) Urea formaldehyde foam field applied.

    1. Limitation on sale. Urea formaldehyde foam is unsafe for use as insulation. Sale within the State of California of urea formaldehyde foam insulation is prohibited.

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    STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL

    1. Exemption. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, a manufacturer of the primary components of urea formaldehyde foam insulation may apply for certification as provided in Section 1555 of this article. Such certification statement shall indicate compliance with the following standards: A. Composition. The material shall consist of cellular plastic generated in a continuous stream by mixing the components which are a urea formaldehyde resin, air and a foaming agent. The material shall be suitable for filling closed cavities through small holes and suitable also for filling open cavities by trowelling during foaming prior to enclosure. B. Thermal performance. The effective thermal performance, incorporating a derating value, shall be determined according to the method described in 42 Fed. Reg. pages 55143-55148. C. Resistance to combustion. Surface-burning characteristics shall be determined according to the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 and shall not exceed the following values:

    Flame spread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Smoke developed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .450 Test specimens shall be aged for 45 days at 70°F ± 5°F and 35 to 40 percent relative humidity before testing. D. Free formaldehyde content of dry foam. The free formaldehyde content of the dry foam shall be less than 0.01 percent formaldehyde by weight when tested as specified in paragraph (f) (8), published in 45 Fed. Reg.

  • CRSC § 0.75. High relevance — show source text
    1. Except as provided in Items 5 and 6, the thermal performance test results certified under Section 1555 of this article shall be the average of the values obtained from at least three tests.
    2. The average measured thermal performance of the tests required by Items 5, 6 and 7 shall not be more than 5 percent below the value specified on the product. In addition, all insulation material sold within the state after September 22, 1981, shall have a measured thermal performance not more than 10 percent below the value specified on the product.
    3. All numbered test descriptions shall be contained in the document “Test Descriptions for Insulating Material” dated February 27, 1981.

    90 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL

    1. Facings on representative samples may be removed or modified by slitting for the ANSI/ASTM C177-76 and ANSI/ASTM C518-76 tests.

    2. All thermal performance testing equipment used for testing insulating materials shall be calibrated with samples referenced to the United States National Bureau of Standards.

    3. Manufacturers of loose fill insulations for which no settled density test is required by this section shall be required to include the installed design density in the identifying information described in Section 1557. The manufacturer shall provide sufficient documentation to establish a valid basis for the determination of installed design density. The Executive Director shall determine whether a valid basis exists for the installed design density claimed by the manufacturer. If it is determined that a valid basis does not exist, the director may assign an appropriate installed design density or may require an appropriate test to determine the installed design density. The manufacturer may appeal the Executive Director’s determination to the full Commission.

    4. Within 180 days after the availability of appropriate representative thickness calibration samples from the National Bureau of Standards, all insulating materials thicker than 1 inch (25 mm), which have not previously been tested at the representative thickness of a representative sample, shall be tested at representative thickness and recertified. Test results and a revised certification statement will be submitted to the Executive Director. The Executive Director shall determine if and when an appropriate representative thickness calibration sample is available from the National Bureau of Standards and shall publish a list of available representative thickness calibration samples. The manufacturer may appeal the Executive Director’s determination to the full Commission.

    5. All products which may be used for pressure fill retrofit wall application shall be separately tested for thermal performance using a sample prepared at the manufacturer’s recommended wall density for such applications.

    6. All water heater insulation kits and nonpreformed pipe insulation shall be tested for thermal performance at the installed compressed thickness of a typical application. Installed compressed thickness shall be determined according to Test Description Number 6. All nonpreformed duct insulation shall be labeled, in accordance with Section 1557(c), with an installed R -value equal to the R -value of the uncompressed insulation times 0.75. (b) Aluminum foil.

    7. Composition. The insulation shall have uniform flat surfaces and shall not be crumpled, torn or punctured. Aluminum foil shall contain not less than 99 percent aluminum. Kraft paper and flangeboard shall meet the requirements of ANSI/TAPPI T400 0S75. Flangeboard used for more than two insulation layers shall be of 28 point grade minimum, if single sheet flangeboard is used or 14 point grade minimum if double sheet flangeboard is used.

  • CRSC § 3.1.9 High relevance — show source text
    1. Density. Density shall be determined according to installed design density. All tests except the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 test shall be conducted at the installed design density.
    2. Resistance to combustion. Resistance to combustion shall be determined by the use of the Attic Floor Radiant Panel Test, as described in the United States General Services Administration insulation standard HH-I-515D Section 3.1.9 as amended October 11, 1979.
    3. Identification. Each insulation container shall be marked with the type (pouring or pneumatic), the net weight and the manufacturer’s recommendations for installation including minimum thickness, maximum coverage and installed design density to provide the levels of thermal performance shown. Manufacturer’s installation recommendations shall include precautions according to the 1993 National Electrical Code Section 410-66. Products which may be used for pressure fill retrofit wall application shall be marked with the recommended wall density to prevent settling and separately marked with the tested thermal performance for such applications.

    (k) Polystyrene in board form.

    1. Composition. Insulation board shall be formed by the expansion of polystyrene resin beads or granules in a mold or the insulation board shall be formed by the expansion of polystyrene base resin in an extrusion process. The insulation shall be uniformly fused, homogeneous and essentially unicellular. Insulation board shall be uniform in physical properties and reasonably free of voids or accumulations of unexpanded material, foreign inclusions, broken corners and broken edges.
    2. Thermal performance. Determination of the thermal performance shall be in accordance with ANSI/ASTM C177-76, ANSI/ASTM C236-66 or ANSI/ASTM C518-76 at the manufacturer’s option. All foam insulation materials using materials other than air or pentane as an expanding agent shall either separately condition samples at 73.4° ± 3.6°F and a relative humidity of 50 ± 5 percent, and at 140°F dry heat and test at 30-, 60- and 90-day intervals or shall test samples certified by an approved testing laboratory to have been aged while exposed to free air in a well ventilated room for at least two years at 70° ± 10°F, provided, however, that until 2 [1] / 2 years after the adoption of these quality standards by the Commission, test samples may be aged for six months for certification of the material. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, this thermal performance standard shall not take effect until 250 days after adoption. If the certification statement submitted pursuant to Section 1555 of this article does not include test results for thermal performance, the manufacturer shall submit a new certification statement which includes such test results prior to 250 days after adoption. If the latest certification statement is based on the six-month aging test, a new statement, based upon the two-year aging test or the accelerated aging test shall be submitted by 2 [1] / 2 years after the adoption date.
    3. A. Resistance to combustion. The material shall be tested to meet the requirements of Sections 2603.2 and 2603.3 of the California Building Code, with the additional provision that the surface-burning characteristics shall be determined according to ANSI/ASTM E84-79 and shall not exceed the following values:
  • CRSC § 73.4 High relevance — show source text

    All foam insulation materials using materials other than air or pentane as an expanding agent shall either separately condition samples at 73.4° ± 3.6°F and a relative humidity of 50 ± 5 percent, and at 140°F (60°C) dry heat and test at 30-, 60- and 90-day intervals or shall test samples certified by an approved testing laboratory to have been aged while exposed to free air in a well ventilated room for at least two years at 70° ± 10°F, provided, however, that until 2 [1] / 2 years after the adoption of these quality standards by the Commission, test samples may be aged for six months for certification of the material. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, this thermal performance standard shall not take effect until 250 days after adoption. If the certification statement submitted pursuant to Section 1555 of these regulations does not include test results for thermal performance, the manufacturer shall submit a new certification statement which includes such test results prior to 250 days after adoption. If the latest certification statement is based on the six-month aging test, a new statement, based upon the two-year aging test or the accelerated aging test shall be submitted by 2 [1] / 2 years after the adoption date. 3. Dimensional stability. All foamed polyurethane and polyisocyanurate insulation materials which are factory formed shall be tested for dimensional stability in accordance with Procedures E and G of ASTM D2126-75 with the following exceptions: (a) sample size shall be 12 inches by 12 inches (305 mm by 305 mm) ± 1 inch (25 mm) and (b) samples shall be tested as manufactured with or without facers.

    The average percent change in length or width shall not exceed ± 2 percent in 24 hours or ± 4 percent in 7 days. The average percent change in thickness shall not exceed ± 10 percent in 7 days. Samples shall be regarded as failing if: (1) delamination area of “faced” samples exceeds 25 percent or (2) warping or cupping exceeds [1] / 4 inch (6 mm) when checked by a straight edge across raised diagonal corners.

    1. Resistance to combustion.

    A. The material shall be tested to meet the requirements of Sections 2602.1-2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code, with the additional provision that the surface-burning characteristics shall be determined according to ANSI/ASTM E84-79 and shall not exceed the following values:

    Flame spread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Smoke developed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 450 B. This subsection shall not apply to any product recognized by the International Conference of Building Officials, as of the date of adoption of this article, as complying with Sections 2602.1-2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code based solely upon diversified testing. The manufacturer of any product which is recognized by the International Conference of Building Officials, subsequent to the date of approval of these regulations, as complying with Sections 2602.12602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code based solely upon diversified testing, may petition the Commission for an exemption of that product from the provisions of this subsection. 5. Identification. Foam containers shall state the conditions of proper storage.

  • CRSC § 73.4 High relevance — show source text

    ** All foamed polystyrene insulation materials which are factory formed shall be tested for dimensional stability in accordance with Procedures E and G of ASTM D2126-75 with the following exceptions: (a) sample size shall be 12 inches by 12 inches (305 mm by 305 mm) ± 1 inch (25 mm), and (b) samples shall be tested as manufactured with or without facers.

    The average percent change in length or width shall not exceed ± 2 percent in 24 hours or ± 4 percent in 7 days. The average percent change in thickness shall not exceed ± 10 percent in 7 days. Samples shall be regarded as failing if: (1) delamination area of “faced” samples exceeds 25 percent or (2) warping or cupping exceeds [1] / 4 inch (6 mm) when checked by a straight edge across raised diagonal corners.

    (l) Polyurethane and polyisocyanurate in board form and field applied.

    1. Composition. The manufacture of the insulation shall be based mainly on the reaction of an organic polyisocyanate with a polyol resin.

    Board shall be of uniform texture, reasonably free from accumulation of unexpanded material and foreign inclusions, and reasonably free of broken edges and corners. It shall be reasonably free from holes, voids, depressions and objectionable odor. Laminated composite boards shall be included in this quality standard. The faces of laminated boards shall adhere firmly throughout to the foam, and shall show no excessive amounts of slits, voids or depressions. 2. Thermal performance. Determination of the thermal performance shall be in accordance with ANSI/ASTM C177-76, ANSI/ASTM C236-66 or ANSI/ASTM C518-76 at the manufacturer’s option. All foam insulation materials using materials other than air or pentane as an expanding agent shall either separately condition samples at 73.4° ± 3.6°F and a relative humidity of 50 ± 5 percent, and at 140°F (60°C) dry heat and test at 30-, 60- and 90-day intervals or shall test samples certified by an approved testing laboratory to have been aged while exposed to free air in a well ventilated room for at least two years at 70° ± 10°F, provided, however, that until 2 [1] / 2 years after the adoption of these quality standards by the Commission, test samples may be aged for six months for certification of the material. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, this thermal performance standard shall not take effect until 250 days after adoption. If the certification statement submitted pursuant to Section 1555 of these regulations does not include test results for thermal performance, the manufacturer shall submit a new certification statement which includes such test results prior to 250 days after adoption. If the latest certification statement is based on the six-month aging test, a new statement, based upon the two-year aging test or the accelerated aging test shall be submitted by 2 [1] / 2 years after the adoption date. 3. Dimensional stability. All foamed polyurethane and polyisocyanurate insulation materials which are factory formed shall be tested for dimensional stability in accordance with Procedures E and G of ASTM D2126-75 with the following exceptions: (a) sample size shall be 12 inches by 12 inches (305 mm by 305 mm) ± 1 inch (25 mm) and (b) samples shall be tested as manufactured with or without facers.

Frequently asked questions

What if my product has multiple facings or constructions — do I need separate certifications?

Yes — certification is required for each “type of insulating material.” If different facings or constructions change product identification or performance, prepare separate certification statements unless you can document a valid basis to group them under one certification. § 12-13-1555(b).

Can I rely on tests my U.S. parent company ran overseas two years ago?

You may only use prior tests if they meet the three conditions in § 12-13-1555(f), including that the same test was conducted within two years of adoption, the laboratory was approved for those tests at certification time, and the lab certifies the test/product are the same. § 12-13-1555(f).

How long until my product is “certified” after I submit the statement?

The Executive Director will acknowledge receipt and face-completeness within 45 days; certification is deemed to occur on that acknowledgement date, or on the 45th day after receipt if no timely acknowledgement is sent. § 12-13-1555(d)–(e).

Must test reports be from a third‑party lab?

Test results must be from an approved laboratory; an approved lab can include a manufacturer‑owned lab if it meets the approval criteria. See § 12-13-1555(b)(3) and the lab‑approval rules in § 12-13-1554.

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California Referenced Standards Code