Integrated Standard Targets
the Performance of Windows and Doors

Answers:

1. The significance of the integrated standard is that two nationally recognized standards were merged, bringing uniform performance criteria, testing, and certification to the entire window and door industry. A change from the old standards is that in testing design pressure, a minimum size window must now be tested. Under the old standards, a manufacturer could test a very small window and publish a high performance value without telling the size of the window tested.
   
   
2. Generally, the performance of the total product is emphasized. Performance is calibrated by design pressure, which is the measurement of the amount of pressure a window is designed to withstand when closed and locked. Primary performance requirements include wind pressure, water penetration, air infiltration, forced entry, and operating force.
   
   
3. The voluntary specifications describe minimum performance that must be met. In areas where there is severe wind or weather, higher performance criteria should be met. The window or door is mounted to a test chamber. For sliding windows the operating force is measured first. Next the chamber is pressurized and measured for forced air according to ASTM E-283. Then water penetration is tested by applying water pressure to the exterior surface. Resistance to water pressure is measured by ASTM E 547 or ASTM E 331. Wind pressure is measured by ASTM E 330. Forced entry for windows is tested by ASTM F 588 and ASTM F 842. Optional tests include acoustical performance, thermal testing in accordance with NFRC100 and condensation rating according to AAMA 1503.
   
   
4. The requirements for window and door materials are prescriptive based. Aluminum shall be of commercial quality and of proper alloy, and free from defects impairing strength and/or durability. Vinyl shall comply with AAMA 303. Wood shall be kiln-dried to a moisture content of no greater than 12 percent at the time of fabrication. Exterior wood components must be treated with a preservative in compliance with WDMA I.S.4. There are also prescriptive requirements for alloys, fasteners, hardware, construction, finishes, and glass.
   
   
5. The five performance classes for windows and doors are residential, light commercial, commercial, heavy commercial, and architectural. The performance class abbreviation is the second set of letters in the four-part code. If you took a commercial window and built it in a smaller size, it should test to a higher design pressure because it is built of heavier members.