Annotations

A-01-01 Aluminium unitised curtain wall system

General information: The aluminium unitised curtain wall system is used as a façade enclosure system, providing airtightness, protection against atmospheric exposure, and a modern architectural solution for buildings of various purposes. The system consists of factory-produced modules, which are assembled on site, reducing installation time and improving the quality of workmanship.

Energy / Thermal considerations: In accordance with the requirements of BS EN 13830 and BS EN ISO 10077, the system must provide high thermal performance and compliance with the U-value indicators for building envelope structures. The design incorporates thermal breaks and energy-efficient glazing, which help reduce heat loss and enhance the building’s overall energy efficiency.

Technical considerations: In line with BS EN 13830, the system must ensure the required air and water tightness, as well as resistance to wind loads and mechanical impacts. Aluminium profiles are manufactured in accordance with BS EN 485 and BS EN 573, ensuring geometric accuracy, strength, and durability. Joint and connection sealing is carried out in compliance with requirements for durability and minimal maintenance.

Fire safety considerations: According to BS EN 13501-1, system components must be classified with a reaction to fire of at least A2-s1,d0, ensuring minimal smoke production and no flaming droplets when exposed to fire. Fire-resistant inserts and sealants are applied in accordance with BS EN 1364 to provide the fire resistance rating of the building envelope and to prevent fire spread through the façade.

Design life: Expected design life: 30 years according to BS EN 13830. The system is designed for long-term operation under atmospheric exposure, provided regular maintenance and proper cleaning of aluminium profiles and insulating glass units are carried out.

Testing regime: In accordance with BS EN 13830 and BS EN 12152/12154, the system must undergo testing for air permeability, water tightness, and resistance to wind loads. Additional testing is conducted in accordance with BS EN 14019 for impact resistance, ensuring glazing safety and the integrity of the structure under mechanical impacts.

A-02-01 Aluminium window system (Inward opening side-hung window)

General Information: The Aluminium Window System (Inward Opening Side-Hung Window) is designed for glazing building openings with inward-opening side-hinged functionality. The system provides natural ventilation, airtight closure, and an aesthetically integrated façade appearance, while maintaining compatibility with both curtain wall and integrated façade systems.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: The system must ensure a low thermal transmittance (U-value), minimised heat loss, and prevention of condensation on profiles. Multi-chamber aluminium profiles with thermal breaks and insulated glazing units (IGUs) featuring low-emissivity coatings and inert gas filling are used. These requirements are regulated by BS EN ISO 10077 (Thermal performance of windows) and BS EN 1279 (Insulating glass units).

Technical Considerations: The aluminium profile and hardware must provide strength, airtightness, ease of operation, and long-term durability. Profiles shall comply with BS EN 755 and BS EN 12020, while the overall system design shall conform to BS EN 1999-1-1 (Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures) and BS EN 14351-1 (Windows and doors – Product standard). Seals must comply with BS EN 12365 to ensure water and air tightness.

Fire Safety Considerations: Aluminium is classified as a non-combustible material (Class A1 according to BS EN 13501-1). The fire performance of the window system depends on the glazing and seal components. For use in areas with higher fire safety requirements, fire-rated glass units and seals certified in accordance with BS EN 13501-2 must be used.

Design Life: The expected service life of the Inward Opening Side-Hung Aluminium Window is 30 years, provided that installation, operation, and maintenance are carried out in accordance with BS EN 1999-1-1 and BS EN 14351-1.

Testing Regime: Testing includes:

• Thermal transmittance — BS EN ISO 10077;

• Water and air tightness — BS EN 1027 / BS EN 12207;

• Resistance to wind load — BS EN 12210;

• Durability of hardware and seals;

• Fire resistance — BS EN 13501-2 using certified fire-resistant glazing.

A-03-04 Aluminium balcony door system (Sliding door)

General Information: The Aluminium Balcony Door System (Sliding Door) is an aluminium sliding door system used for access to balconies and terraces. It provides transparency, natural daylight and ease of operation, combining the compact functionality of a sliding mechanism with the durability of an aluminium construction.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: The system must provide adequate thermal insulation for external building envelope applications. Aluminium profiles shall incorporate a thermal break compliant with BS EN 14024, and thermal transmittance values must be verified through calculations and testing in accordance with BS EN ISO 10077-1 and BS EN ISO 10077-2. Insulated glazing units (IGUs) shall provide high thermal resistance and comply with BS EN 1279.

Technical Considerations: Aluminium profiles shall comply with BS EN 755 and BS EN 12020 regarding material properties, geometry and fabrication. The sliding mechanism must ensure smooth operation, resistance to wind loads and effective weather performance in accordance with:

• BS EN 12207 (Air permeability)

• BS EN 12208 (Watertightness)

• BS EN 12210 (Resistance to wind load)

• Structural design must be undertaken in accordance with BS EN 1999-1-1 (Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures).

Fire Safety Considerations: Aluminium profiles are classified as A1 under BS EN 13501-1 and are non-combustible. Where fire performance is required, the behaviour of the door assembly shall be assessed in accordance with BS EN 1634-1 (Fire resistance tests for doors). IGUs must meet the fire performance criteria of the overall system, and if the door is integrated into a façade system, it shall form part of overall fire testing under BS EN 13501-2 and BS 8414.

Design Life: The expected service life of the Aluminium Balcony Door System (Sliding Door) is at least 30 years, provided that correct installation, regular maintenance of the sliding mechanism, and appropriate protective finishes are ensured, in accordance with BS EN 1999 and BS EN 12206.

Testing Regime: The system must be tested for air permeability, watertightness and resistance to wind load in accordance with BS EN 12207, BS EN 12208 and BS EN 12210. IGUs must be tested in accordance with BS EN 1279, and mechanical components are subject to durability and wear testing in accordance with BS EN 13126-19 (Sliding fittings)

A-10-01 Aluminium balustrade system

General Information: The Aluminium Balustrade System is a protective railing system used on balconies, staircases, terraces, and roofs to ensure safety and provide an aesthetic finish to architectural elements of a building. It can consist of posts, handrails, infill panels made of glass, perforated panels, or solid aluminium elements.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: The balustrade is not part of the building’s thermal envelope. However, its fixings may affect the thermal performance of façade junctions or balcony slabs. Thermal bridges at connections to the supporting structure must be considered in accordance with BS EN ISO 10211 and BS EN ISO 6946. Thermal breaks or insulating pads should be used where necessary to prevent condensation and heat loss.

Technical Considerations: The system must comply with strength, stability, and safety requirements according to BS 6180:2011 Barriers in and about buildings – Code of practice. Materials shall be aluminium alloys conforming to BS EN 573 and BS EN 755. All components must resist corrosion and environmental exposure, with anodised or powder-coated finishes in accordance with BS EN 12206. Fixings should conform to BS EN 1090-1 and be made from stainless steel. The design must withstand static and dynamic loads, including wind pressure and impact forces.

Fire Safety Considerations: Aluminium is a non-combustible material with a reaction to fire classification of A1 according to BS EN 13501-1. Glass infill must comply with BS EN 12600 (impact resistance and safe failure). In buildings over 18 metres high, the balustrade and its fixings must not contribute to fire spread across the façade and should meet the requirements of BS 8414 and BR 135 if integrated into the façade.

Design Life: The expected service life of the aluminium balustrade system is at least 30 years, provided regular maintenance is performed and materials are appropriately selected, in accordance with BS EN 1999 (Eurocode 9) and BS EN ISO 9223 (corrosion categories).

Testing Regime: Testing includes:

• Strength and impact tests according to BS 6180 and BS EN 12600;

• Corrosion resistance testing in accordance with BS EN ISO 9227 (salt spray);

• Confirmation of fire performance according to BS EN 13501-1 (A1);

• Strength testing of welded and bolted connections per BS EN ISO 6892-1;

• Durability of coatings according to BS EN 12206 (powder coating) or BS EN 12373 (anodising).

C-01-01 Aluminium support bracket (Aluminium cladding)

General information: The aluminium support bracket is used to fix aluminium cladding panels to façade structures, providing stability and accurate positioning of the cladding elements. It ensures long-term fixation under various loads and weather conditions.

Energy / Thermal considerations:
The element has the high thermal conductivity of aluminium, which must be accounted for regarding expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. The design should minimise thermal bridging, in compliance with BS EN ISO 6946 and BS EN 13947, to maintain thermal efficiency of the façade system.

Technical considerations:
The bracket must withstand static and dynamic loads, including the weight of cladding panels, wind loads, and potential seismic actions, in accordance with BS EN 1999-1-1 (Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures). Only corrosion-resistant aluminium alloys with anodised or powder-coated finishes are permitted to ensure durability.

Fire safety considerations:
Aluminium brackets are non-combustible; however, their use must be compatible with the fire performance of the façade system. Cladding materials should be classified A2-s1,d0 according to BS EN 13501-1 to minimise fire spread and smoke emission.

Design life:
The expected service life of aluminium support brackets is 30 years, according to BS EN 1999-1-1, provided proper installation and operation in line with performance requirements.

Testing regime:
Brackets should be tested for strength and durability, including corrosion resistance (BS EN ISO 9227) and mechanical load testing (BS EN 1990, BS EN 1999-1-1)

C-01-02 Aluminium L-profile

General Information: An aluminium L-profile is an angular extrusion commonly used in ventilated façade systems for fixing, aligning, and joining cladding panels, as well as reinforcing corners and edges of the façade structure. It serves as part of the subframe in both external rainscreen systems and internal wall assemblies, providing structural alignment and support.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: Due to aluminium’s high thermal conductivity, L-profiles can act as localised thermal bridges. To reduce adverse impacts on the thermal performance of the façade system, thermal isolators or breaks should be used where profiles penetrate or interact with the insulation layer. Thermal impact should be assessed in accordance with BS EN ISO 10211 (thermal bridge modelling) and BS EN ISO 6946 (thermal transmittance).

Technical Considerations: The profile should be manufactured from aluminium or aluminium alloys compliant with BS EN 573-3 (chemical composition) and BS EN 755 (mechanical properties and tolerances). It must demonstrate sufficient stiffness and dimensional stability under wind, dead, and service loads. Surface treatment such as anodising or polyester powder coating is recommended for external use in accordance with BS EN 12206, ensuring corrosion resistance and durability.

Fire Safety Considerations: Aluminium is classified as non-combustible (Class A1 under BS EN 13501-1). However, it loses mechanical strength at temperatures exceeding 300–400 °C. Therefore, in fire-critical zones or components contributing to fire barriers, its use must be justified through system-level fire testing in accordance with BS 8414 and performance evaluation to BR 135.

Design Life: The expected service life of an aluminium L-profile is at least 30 years, provided proper detailing, installation, and corrosion protection are ensured. Structural design should comply with BS EN 1999 (Eurocode 9 – Design of aluminium structures) and manufacturing standards such as BS EN 1090-1 for CE marking and fabrication control.

Testing Regime: Performance testing includes:

• Mechanical strength and deflection resistance per BS EN ISO 6892-1 (tensile properties);

• Corrosion resistance assessment through salt spray testing as per BS EN ISO 9227;

• Fire behaviour assessment as part of the façade system in accordance with BS 8414 and classification per BS EN 13501-1 (Class A1).

D-03-01 Aluminium base plate (Unitised curtain wall)

General information: The Aluminium Base Plate is used in unitised façade systems as a support plate for fixing modules to the building’s structural frame. It ensures stable attachment and alignment of vertical and horizontal curtain wall elements.

Energy / Thermal considerations: The element must account for the thermal expansion of aluminium and compatibility with other façade materials to prevent deformation and damage to sealed joints. It should contribute to minimising thermal bridges in the system, in accordance with BS EN ISO 6946 and BS EN 13947.

Technical considerations: The Aluminium Base Plate must provide high mechanical strength and resist static and dynamic loads, including the weight of the module and wind loads, in accordance with BS EN 1999-1-1 (Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures). The material should be corrosion-resistant, with anodised or protective coating to ensure durability.

Fire safety considerations: The aluminium base itself is non-combustible; however, the overall fire performance of the curtain wall system must be considered. Panels and fixings should comply with fire classification requirements, e.g., A2-s1,d0 under BS EN 13501-1, to minimise the risk of fire spread and smoke emission.

Design life: The expected service life of the Aluminium Base Plate is 30 years, in accordance with BS EN 1999-1-1, assuming correct installation and maintenance.

Testing regime: The element should be tested for mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, and durability, including salt spray testing according to BS EN ISO 9227, and load testing in accordance with BS EN 1990 and BS EN 1999-1-1.

D-03-03 Aluminium attachment hook (Unitised curtain wall)

General information: The Aluminium Attachment Hook is used to fix curtain wall units to the structural frame or to aluminium profiles within the module. It provides a secure connection, precise alignment, and load transfer between façade elements.

Energy / Thermal considerations: The element must accommodate aluminium’s thermal expansion and maintain the airtightness of connections under temperature variations. The design should minimise thermal bridges in accordance with BS EN ISO 6946 and BS EN 13947.

Technical considerations: The Aluminium Attachment Hook must resist static and dynamic loads, including panel weight and wind loads, in accordance with BS EN 1999-1-1 (Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures). The material should be corrosion-resistant, with anodised or protective coating to ensure durability and reliable connections.

Fire safety considerations: The aluminium hook is non-combustible; however, the overall curtain wall system must meet fire performance requirements. Elements should comply with BS EN 13501-1, e.g., A2-s1,d0, to minimise fire spread and smoke emission.

Design life: The expected service life of the Aluminium Attachment Hook is 30 years, in accordance with BS EN 1999-1-1, assuming correct installation and maintenance.

Testing regime: The element should undergo testing for mechanical strength, durability, and corrosion resistance, including salt spray tests according to BS EN ISO 9227 and load testing in accordance with BS EN 1990 and BS EN 1999-1-1.

G-01-01 Lightweight Steel Frame System

General Information: The LSFS – Lightweight Steel Frame System is used for load-bearing and enclosing structures in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. It provides high strength-to-weight ratio, rapid installation, and design flexibility.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: The system shall minimise thermal bridges in compliance with BS EN ISO 10211. Additional thermal insulation materials shall be applied to meet energy efficiency standards (BS EN ISO 6946).

Technical Considerations: The structure shall conform to strength and stability requirements as per BS EN 1993-1-3 (Eurocode 3: Design of Steel Structures). Geometric and installation tolerances shall comply with BS EN 1090-2 (Execution Standards for Steel Structures).

Fire Safety Considerations: Depending on application, the system shall provide fire resistance in accordance with BS EN 13501-2. Cladding with non-combustible materials (Class A1/A2-s1,d0 per BS EN 13501-1) or application of fire-protective coatings may be utilised.

Design Life: The design service life shall be no less than 50 years, subject to compliance with corrosion protection (BS EN ISO 12944) and maintenance requirements (BS EN 1990).

Testing Regime:

Testing shall include load-bearing capacity verification (BS EN 1993-1-3), corrosion resistance (BS EN ISO 9227), and fire resistance (BS EN 1363-1).

G-02-01 Weather seal membrane

General Information: The weather seal membrane is a waterproof and airtight layer used in façade and window systems to protect joints and interfaces from moisture, air, and dust ingress. It is typically applied between structural components of the building envelope (e.g. between the window frame and the wall) to provide long-lasting airtight and watertight sealing.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: The membrane contributes to the required levels of air and vapour tightness in façade systems, enhancing the building's overall energy performance by reducing infiltration-related heat loss. It must comply with BS EN 12114 (air permeability of building joints) and BS EN 13984 (vapour control layers), ensuring compatibility with the insulation system and maintaining overall airtightness. Effective vapour control and sealing are essential to meeting the thermal performance criteria outlined in BS EN ISO 6946.

Technical Considerations: The membrane must exhibit high elasticity, durability, water resistance, and the ability to maintain its mechanical integrity under joint movement and deformation. In accordance with BS EN 13984 and BS EN 13859-2 (waterproofing membranes for walls and roofs), the membrane must be resistant to UV radiation, weathering, and temperature fluctuations. Compatibility with commonly used adhesives and sealants in façade assemblies is also essential.

Fire Safety Considerations: Weather seal membranes are typically classified as Class E under BS EN 13501-1. Their use is generally permitted in buildings under 18 metres in height, in line with current façade fire safety guidance and regulations. For buildings exceeding this height, membranes with a higher fire resistance classification are required.

Design Life: The expected service life of the membrane is approximately 25–30 years, provided it is correctly installed and protected from mechanical damage and prolonged UV exposure. Long-term durability and performance are supported by accelerated ageing and climate resistance testing as per BS EN 1296 and BS EN 13859-2.

Testing Regime: The membrane should be tested in accordance with the following standards:

• BS EN 13859-2 – mechanical strength and water resistance;

• BS EN 1928 – watertightness testing;

• BS EN 12114 – air permeability performance;

• BS EN 1296 – artificial ageing;

• BS EN 13501-1 – fire classification (typically Class E).

G-02-02 Breather membrane

General information: The breather membrane is used as a water- and wind-resistant layer in building envelope constructions, particularly behind cladding façade systems and roofs. The membrane prevents moisture ingress from outside while allowing water vapour to escape from within the structure, preventing condensation and enhancing the durability of insulation.

Energy / Thermal considerations: In accordance with BS EN 13859-2 (walls) and BS EN 13859-1 (roofs), the membrane must have high vapour permeability and low thermal conductivity, helping to maintain the effectiveness of the insulation layer. Its use minimises heat loss by protecting insulation from moisture and draughts, in accordance with BS EN ISO 13788 for moisture control and condensation management.

Technical considerations: According to BS EN 13859, the membrane must be UV-resistant for the declared installation period, retain mechanical strength under tension and puncture, and withstand weathering. The membrane construction must resist wind loads and remain stable under temperature fluctuations. Installation should follow manufacturer guidelines for joint sealing and lap overlaps.

Fire safety considerations: In accordance with BS EN 13501-1, the membrane should have a verified reaction-to-fire classification, e.g., B-s1,d0 or higher, limiting flame spread and smoke production. When designing façades, the membrane is selected to meet the fire performance requirements of the system, taking into account BS EN 13501-2 for construction elements.

Design life: Expected design life: 30 years according to BS EN 13859, provided proper installation, protection from direct UV exposure after cladding installation, and adherence to operational requirements.

Testing regime: In accordance with BS EN 13859, the membrane is tested for water resistance, vapour permeability (Sd-value), tensile and tear strength, resistance to temperature variations, and ageing. Additionally, it is classified for fire performance according to BS EN 13501-1

G-02-03 Vapour control layer (VCL)

General information: The vapour control layer (VCL) is used in building envelope constructions to restrict the diffusion of water vapour from interior spaces into insulation. It is applied in façade and roof systems, preventing condensation within the construction and ensuring the durability of thermal insulation and structural elements.

Energy / Thermal considerations: In accordance with BS EN ISO 13788 and BS EN 13984, the VCL must have low vapour permeability (high Sd-value), preventing moisture from reaching the insulation. Controlling the moisture regime helps maintain the design thermal performance of the insulation and prevents a reduction in the efficiency of the thermal layer.

Technical considerations: According to BS EN 13984, the VCL must provide mechanical strength, resistance to puncture and tear, and ensure airtightness at joints and connections. Installation requires proper sealing of overlaps and the use of specialised tapes to maintain a continuous vapour barrier. The material must remain stable across the operating temperature range and be compatible with other building materials.

Fire safety considerations: In accordance with BS EN 13501-1, the VCL must have a verified reaction-to-fire classification (e.g., B-s1,d0 or higher), limiting flame spread and smoke generation. In façade and roof systems, the layer is selected to meet the fire performance requirements of the entire assembly in accordance with BS EN 13501-2.

Design life: Expected design life: 30 years according to BS EN 13984, provided correct installation and protection from mechanical damage during construction and operation.

Testing regime: In accordance with BS EN 13984, the VCL is tested for water vapour permeability (Sd-value), tensile and tear strength, and resistance to ageing and temperature effects. Additionally, the material is classified for reaction to fire according to BS EN 13501-1

G-03-01 Non-combustible sheathing board (for LSFS)

General Information: The non-combustible cladding panel (for LSFS) serves as a protective and structural layer in Lightweight steel frame systems (LSFS), providing fire resistance, mechanical stability, and additional thermal insulation.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: The panel shall comply with thermal conductivity and energy efficiency requirements per BS EN ISO 6946. It may be used in conjunction with insulation materials to enhance the thermal performance of building envelopes.

Technical Considerations: The material shall possess high compressive strength and deformation resistance, conforming to BS EN 13950 (gypsum-based boards) or BS EN 15283 (cement/fibre-based boards). Permissible geometric and flatness tolerances shall be regulated by BS EN 520.

Fire Safety Considerations: The panel shall be classified as non-combustible (A1 or A2-s1,d0 per BS EN 13501-1) and provide fire resistance in accordance with BS EN 1364-1 (fire resistance testing for non-load-bearing elements).

Design Life: The expected service life shall be no less than 30 years, subject to proper installation and maintenance conditions.

Testing Regime: Testing shall include:

• Fire resistance (BS EN 1364-1)

• Mechanical strength (BS EN 520)

• Moisture and frost resistance (where applicable) as per relevant standards.

G-04-01 Mineral wool insulation (for external application) (k ≤ 0.035 W/mK)

General Information: Mineral wool insulation (for wall) is used in external and internal building envelopes to provide thermal, acoustic and fire insulation. Installed in multi-layer walls, façade systems or framed partitions as a non-combustible insulation material.

Energy/Thermal Considerations: Mineral wool features low thermal conductivity (λ ≈ 0.032-0.040 W/m·K), complying with BS EN 13162 - the standard for thermal insulation products for buildings. It effectively reduces heat loss and helps building envelopes meet energy efficiency requirements (e.g. BS EN ISO 6946). Insulation thickness is selected based on required U-value.

Technical Considerations: According to BS EN 13162, mineral wool must maintain dimensional stability, moisture resistance, compressive strength (when used in rainscreen systems), and long-term durability. The material must retain its insulating properties under humid conditions. For walls, compliance with strength classes and dimensional stability under temperature fluctuations is essential. Capillary activity and water vapour diffusion resistance (µ-factor) are also considered.

Fire Safety Considerations: Mineral wool is a non-combustible material typically classified as A1 per BS EN 13501-1 - it doesn't support combustion, emit toxic gases or produce flaming droplets. Used as a component in fire protection systems for façades, partitions and fire compartments. When used in external insulation systems (e.g. ventilated façades), it ensures structural fire safety.

Design Life: The expected service life of mineral wool is minimum 30 years per BS EN 13162, provided proper installation, moisture protection and avoidance of mechanical damage.

Testing Regime: Testing is conducted according to BS EN 13162 and BS EN 1602-1609, including determination of thermal conductivity, water absorption, compressive strength, ageing resistance and dimensional stability. Fire performance is verified per BS EN 13501-1.

G-04-02 Mineral wool insulation (to void between LSFS studs) (k ≤ 0.038 W/mK)

General Information: Mineral wool insulation (for LSF) is a mineral fibre insulation material used in light steel framing (LSF) constructions. It provides thermal and acoustic insulation for external and internal walls, floors, partitions, and roofing systems. Installed between steel studs, it ensures the required thermal and acoustic performance of building envelopes.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: Mineral wool has low thermal conductivity (λ ≈ 0.032–0.040 W/m·K), complying with BS EN ISO 10456 and BS EN 13162 (thermal insulation products - mineral wool products). In LSF systems, its use improves thermal resistance (R-value) and reduces heat loss through walls and roofs. The insulation must retain its thermal performance over its service life, including resistance to slumping and sagging. Thermal efficiency calculations follow BS EN ISO 6946 (thermal performance of building components) and BS EN ISO 10211 (thermal bridges).

Technical Considerations: Mineral wool for framed systems must exhibit sufficient rigidity, dimensional stability, water repellence, and vapour permeability. Per BS EN 13162, it must be classified by:

• Density

• Compressive/tensile strength

• Fibre length

• Other mechanical properties Additionally, resistance to vibration and vertical structural loads must be considered.

Fire Safety Considerations: Mineral wool is classified as a non-combustible material (A1 per BS EN 13501-1), meaning it does not contribute to fire, smoke, or flaming droplets. This makes it highly effective in LSF walls, where fire resistance (BS EN 1364-1 – non-load-bearing walls) is required. When combined with appropriate cladding, it can achieve EI 30–120 fire resistance ratings.

Design Life: The expected service life is minimum 50 years (BS EN 13162), provided the insulation is:

• Protected from moisture ingress

• Not mechanically damaged

• Properly installed to prevent settling in vertical applications

Testing Regime: Testing includes:

• BS EN 13162 (product characteristics)

• BS EN 1604 (dimensional stability & shrinkage resistance)

• BS EN 1607 (tensile strength)

• BS EN 12667 (thermal conductivity)

• BS EN ISO 1182 & BS EN 13501-1 (reaction to fire)

• Full LSF system fire testing (BS EN 1364-1) may also be required.

H-02-01 Double glazed unit (DGU-1)

General Information: A double glazed unit (DGU) is used in window, door, and façade systems to provide thermal and acoustic insulation. It consists of two glass panes separated by a spacer frame with a hermetically sealed cavity, which may be filled with air or an inert gas (e.g., argon). DGUs are employed in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings to enhance energy efficiency and comfort.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: According to BS EN 1279 (standards for insulating glass units), a double glazed unit must achieve a low thermal transmittance (U-value), particularly when using low-emissivity coatings (Low-E) and gas filling. This ensures compliance with building energy efficiency requirements, as specified in BS EN ISO 10077-1 and BS EN ISO 10456. The use of inert gases and warm-edge spacer bars further reduces heat loss and the risk of condensation.

Technical Considerations: Technical requirements for double glazed units are defined by BS EN 1279 (Parts 1–6), covering durability, airtightness, moisture absorption, optical properties, and thickness tolerances. Additional parameters include sound insulation, wind load resistance, and impact resistance (where required). Compatibility with window or façade systems must be ensured in accordance with BS EN 14351-1 (windows and external pedestrian doors).

Fire Safety Considerations: Standard double glazed units made from tempered or float glass are not fire-resistant, though they may be used in non-fire-rated barriers. Their behaviour in fire depends on the glass type: standard glass is not classified under BS EN 13501-1, but tempered or laminated glass may meet certain safe breakage requirements. If the glazed unit is part of a fire-rated system, specialist fire-resistant glass certified to BS EN 14449 and BS EN 13501-2 must be used.

Design Life The expected service life of a double glazed unit is at least 25–30 years, assuming proper installation and sealing quality, as per BS EN 1279-2 and -3.

Testing Regime: Testing includes assessments for:

• Airtightness (BS EN 1279-2)

• Moisture absorption (BS EN 1279-3)

• Thermal transmittance (BS EN 674)

• Light transmittance (BS EN 410)

• Sound insulation (BS EN ISO 10140)

• Resistance to climatic cycling and ageing

• Full-scale testing of glazed units within window systems is conducted under BS EN 14351-1.