WINDOW PERFORMANCE
The Learning Center
In addition to energy performance, window and door products are
designed to perform in various applications and weather conditions.
Manufacturers can certify the performance grade of their products
through independent testing laboratories.
Window standards define four mandatory performance requirements
for a completely fabricated window:
• Structural integrity to withstand wind loads
• Resistance to water leakage
• Resistance to air infiltration
• Forced entry resistance
Windows are tested by independent labs and graded by their "Design
Pressure" performance. Windows with higher Performance Grades
are generally stronger and have more structural integrity because
they are designed to withstand higher wind load pressures.
The table to the right shows the minimum Performance Grade
required for each class of window.
1. How is window performance defined?
< back to list of questions about window performance
Window or
Door Type
Performance
Grade
Structural
Test
Pressure
Water
Resistance
Pressure
Residential
(R)
15
22.5 psf
2.86 psf
Light
Commercial
(LC)
25
37.5 psf
3.75 psf
Commercial
(C)
30
45.0 psf
4.50 psf
Heavy
Commercial
(HC)
40
60.0 psf
6.00 psf
Architectural
(AW)
40
60.0 psf
8.00 psf
A window rated "R" 15 just passed for residential use only.
An "R" 30 or 45 rated window will perform much better.
1-877-SWING CLEAN
info@energyswingwindows.com
3245 Miracle Drive
Murrysville, PA 15668
724-387-2991
PA Contractor ID
PA001856
