Weather Testing

In 2008, IDWL commissioned the fabrication of its NATA accredited weather testing facility for windows and door sets. Weather testing windows and some glazed doors is mandatory in the NCC.

Testing is done to the requirements of AS 2047 with the test methods set out in AS 4420.1 and AS/NZS 4420.

This sets out the requirements for the following tests:

Test Specimen Preparation and Test Sequence – Describes the requirements for preparing the test sample and the sequence the different tests need to be performed.

Deflection Test – Determines the wind loaded deflection/span ratio of windows under varying wind pressures with both positive and negative wind pressure. Wind pressures are determined in AS 2047, AS 4055 and AS 1170.1 for the different climate zones of Australia.

Operating Force Test – A requirement for sliding and bi-folding windows and doors and determines its operating force.

Air Infiltration Test – Determines the air infiltration of windows under positive and negative pressures. This is a requirement for all conditioned spaces in buildings in Australia.

Water Penetration Resistance Test – Exposes the window to a water spray to simulate rain hitting the window for 5 minutes then positive pressure air pressure is applied for the next fifteen minutes along with the water spray to simulate windblown rain that occurs in storm events. The wind pressure varies for different ratings to the requirements of AS 2047, AS 4055 and AS 1170.1 for the different climate zones in Australia.

Ultimate Strength Test – Exposes the window to very high positive and negative wind pressure for 1 minute. This determines the ultimate strength rating of the window. There can be no failure of the windows glass or structure to pass this test. The wind pressure varies for different ratings to the requirements of AS 2047, AS 4055 and AS 1170.1.