BS 4873-2004
BS 4873-2004
BS 4873-2004
Aluminium alloy
windows
ICS 91.060.50
12&23<,1*:,7+287%6,3(50,66,21(;&(37$63(50,77('%<&23<5,*+7/$:
BS 4873:2004
Contents
Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
Foreword ii
1 Scope 1
2 Normative references 1
3 Terms and definitions 2
4 Handing 3
5 Materials 4
6 Work sizes and manufacturing tolerances 5
7 Construction and design 6
8 Glazing 6
9 Security 6
10 Operation 6
11 Weathertightness 7
12 Marking 7
Annex A (informative) Advisory notes on materials and construction 8
Annex B (informative) Optional features 9
Annex C (normative) Specification for handing 10
Bibliography 13
Figure C.1 — Window types and handing 11
Figure C.2 — Illustrations of window types and handing for working
drawings 12
Foreword
Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii,
pages 1 to 13 and a back cover.
The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the
document was last issued.
1 Scope
This British Standard specifies requirements for the design, construction and performance of aluminium
alloy windows intended to be installed vertically, including materials and glazing.
It is applicable to the following window types, which can be in multi-light form:
a) hinged-side-hung (open in or out), top-hung (open out), bottom-hung (open in), tilt and turn;
b) projecting-side-hung (open out or reversible) and top-hung (open out or reversible);
c) pivoted-horizontal and -vertical (hung centrally or off-centre including reversible);
d) sliding-horizontal and -vertical (including tilting sash to vertical);
e) fixed lights;
f) louvred-adjustable.
It is also applicable to windows that are used for replacement purposes and those that have thermally
improved frames.
It is not applicable to:
1) windows in which any frame member is longer than 3 m;
2) fixed louvres;
3) secondary windows applied to convert existing single windows into double or coupled windows;
4) windows with frames designed to be glazed with security glazing conforming to BS EN 1063
or BS 5544;
5) the thermal properties of thermally improved frames.
NOTE Advisory notes on materials and construction are given in Annex A, and details of optional features to be agreed between the
manufacturer and the purchaser are given in Annex B.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.
BS 952-1, Glass for glazing — Part 1: Classification.
BS 3987, Specification for anodic oxidation coatings on wrought aluminium for external architectural
applications.
BS 4255-1, Rubber used in preformed gaskets for weather exclusion from buildings — Part 1: Specification
for non-cellular gaskets.
BS 4842, Specification for liquid organic coatings for application to aluminium alloy extrusions, sheet and
preformed sections for external architectural purposes, and for the finish on aluminium alloy extrusions,
sheet and preformed sections coated with liquid organic coatings.
BS 5713, Specification for hermetically sealed flat double glazing units.
BS 6100-1.0, Glossary of building and civil engineering terms — Part 1: General and miscellaneous —
Section 1.0: General.
BS 6100-1.5.1, Glossary of building and civil engineering terms — Part 1: General and miscellaneous —
Section 1.5: Operations; associated plant and equipment — Subsection 1.5.1: Co-ordination of dimensions;
tolerances and accuracy.
BS 6100-1.6, Glossary of building and civil engineering terms — Part 1: General and miscellaneous —
Section 1.6: Persons.
BS 6262, Code of practice for glazing for buildings.
BS 6338:1982 (ISO 4520:1981), Specification for chromate conversion coatings on electroplated zinc and
cadmium coatings.
BS 6375 (both parts), Performance of windows.
BS 6399-2, Loading for buildings — Part 2: Code of practice for wind loads.
BS 6496, Specification for powder organic coatings for application and stoving to aluminium alloy
extrusions, sheet and preformed sections for external architectural purposes, and for the finish on
aluminium alloy extrusions, sheet and preformed sections coated with powder organic coatings.
BS 7950:1997, Specification for enhanced security performance of casement and tilt/turn windows for
domestic applications.
BS EN 485-2:1995, Aluminium and aluminium alloys — Sheet, strip and plate — Part 2: Mechanical
properties.
BS EN 755-9:2001, Aluminium and aluminium alloys — Extruded rod/bar, tube and profiles —
Part 9: Profiles, tolerances on dimensions and form.
BS EN 1670:1998, Building hardware — Corrosion resistance — Requirements and test methods.
BS EN 12329:2000, Corrosion protection of metal — Electrodeposited coatings of zinc with supplementary
treatment on iron or steel.
BS EN 22063:1994, Metallic and other inorganic coatings — Thermal spraying — Zinc, aluminium and
their alloys.
BS EN ISO 1461, Hot dip galvanized coatings on fabricated iron and steel articles — Specifications and test
methods.
BS EN ISO 3506-1:1998, Mechanical properties of corrosion-resistant stainless-steel fasteners —
Bolts, screws and studs.
BS EN ISO 3506-2:1998, Mechanical properties of corrosion-resistant stainless-steel fasteners — Nuts.
BS ISO 11600, Building construction — Jointing products — Classification and requirements for sealants.
3.2
bearing device
wheel, roller, skid or other device fitted at the head or sill of a horizontally sliding window to support the
weight of the sash and to facilitate movement
3.3
casement
window, or part of a window, that opens on hinges, pivots or variable geometry stays
NOTE This definition is a modification of that given in BS 6100-1.0.
3.4
coupled window
glazed frame with another glazed frame hinged or fastened to it, so that both open together for ventilation
and can be separated for cleaning purposes
3.5
design wind pressure
wind pressure that can be expected on a surface of a building having taken into account the Sa, Sd and Sb
factors and the shape of the building by applying pressure coefficients to the dynamic pressure of the wind
NOTE See BS 6399-2.
3.6
double window
two separate glazed frames superimposed in the same wall opening
3.7
fixing
item that is used to secure separate members of a window assembly to each other, to secure an item of
hardware to a window member, or to secure a completed window assembly into the structure of a building
3.8
glazing gasket
plastics or synthetic rubber member, used between the glass and the frame and/or the glass and the bead
3.9
hardware
fitting attached to a window that is used to operate and/or secure it
3.10
insulating glass unit
two or more panes of glass manufactured to size and shape, spaced apart and then hermetically sealed in
a factory, ready for glazing
3.11
multi-light window
window incorporating opening and/or fixed lights within one perimeter frame
3.12
sash
movable frame of a horizontally or vertically sliding window
3.13
secondary window
window either fitted into the same wall opening as an existing window, or applied to an existing window,
to provide improved thermal and/or sound insulation
3.14
thermally improved frame
frame of an aluminium alloy window that incorporates an insulating material to improve the thermal
performance
NOTE It may be of the thermal barrier type, where the inner and outer faces are separated by the insulating material, or of the
thermal clad type, where the insulating material is applied to the face or faces of the frame.
3.15
weathertightness
performance in respect of air permeability, watertightness and wind resistance
3.16
weatherstripping
material around opening lights to reduce air and/or water penetration
4 Handing
The handing shall be in accordance with the specification provided.
Where the manufacturer is specifying the handing, the specification shall conform to Annex C.
NOTE Where the manufacturer is not specifying the handing, care should be taken to check the handing designation.
See Annex C, Note 1.
5 Materials
5.1 Aluminium
Extruded aluminium profiles shall be fabricated from designated treated alloy 6060 or 6063 in tempers T4,
T5 or T6 conforming to BS EN 755-9:2001.
When ancillary components such as sills, couplings etc. are formed from sheet materials they shall be
fabricated from designated alloys 1200, 3103, 5005 or 5251 conforming to BS EN 485-2:1995 in temper
suitable for the particular type of application and degree of forming to be adopted.
The aluminium profiles used in the construction of the frames excluding glazing beads, nibs, interlocks and
similar features shall be, at minimum tolerance, not less than 1.2 mm thick.
The aluminium shall be finished by one of the following:
a) anodizing conforming to BS 3987;
b) a liquid organic coating conforming to BS 4842;
c) a powder coating conforming to BS 6496.
5.2 Frame joint sealing materials
When the completed window is tested in accordance with BS 6375-1 and BS 6375-2, there shall be no
degradation of the sealing or the operational function of the window due to failure of the sealing materials.
NOTE Materials should be able to withstand stresses during assembly, transportation, installation and operation of the window.
5.4 Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping shall be one of the following:
a) ethylene propylene diene monomer (epdm); or
b) plasticized PVC (PVC-P); or
c) polychloroprene (CR); or
d) polypropylene pile; or
e) sheathed cellular elastomeric polymer; or
f) silicone (Si); or
g) thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).
NOTE 1 Non-cellular forms of materials a), b) and c) are specified in BS 4255-1.
NOTE 2 Guidance on weatherstripping products is given in BPF WG 345/1 [1].
1) In preparation.
5.5 Fixings
All straps, clips, brackets, lugs, screws, nuts, bolts, rivets, metal washers, shims and other fixings shall be
manufactured from one of the following:
a) stainless steel grade A2, A4 or F1 conforming to BS EN ISO 3506-1:1998 or BS EN ISO 3506-2:1998;
b) steel which has been finished by one of the following methods:
1) zinc plating in accordance with BS EN 12329:2000, code Fe/Zn 12 or Fe/Zn 25, and chromate
passivation in accordance with BS 6338:1982, class 2C or 2D;
2) hot dip galvanizing in accordance with BS EN ISO 1461 to a minimum coating mass of 460 g/m2;
3) spraying with a zinc coating in accordance with BS EN 22063:1994, symbol Zn4;
4) any other protective treatment of equivalent performance to those specified in 1) to 3);
c) aluminium, of an alloy having mechanical strength properties at least equal to that of the frame.
NOTE Spacer shims used at fixings, which serve only as packing and do not influence the structural integrity of the fixing, may be
of extruded or moulded plastics material.
8 Glazing
Windows shall be glazed in accordance with the recommendations given in BS 6262.
NOTE Attention is drawn to the glazing safety recommendations of BS 6262-4.
9 Security
When the completed window is tested in accordance with BS 7950:1997, A.4 and A.5.1, it shall not be
possible to gain entry.
NOTE 1 The manufacturer should establish whether any of the security devices listed in Annex B are to be provided.
NOTE 2 A glazing system that prevents the removal of the glass by dismantling the system entirely from the outside is available as
an optional feature (see Annex B).
NOTE 3 Guidance for security against crime is given in BS 8220.
NOTE 4 Test methods and acceptance criteria for enhanced security of some domestic window types against the opportunist burglar
are given in BS 7950.
10 Operation
The completed window shall conform to the performance requirements for operation and strength specified
in BS 6375-2.
NOTE 1 The manufacturer should establish whether any of the safety fittings listed in Annex B are to be provided.
NOTE 2 Advice on the safety of openable windows is given in BS 8213-1.
NOTE 3 Recommendations for glazing in risk areas are given in BS 6262-4 (see also 5.6).
11 Weathertightness
NOTE The weathertightness requirements apply to all types of window.
The completed window shall meet the weathertightness requirements for the appropriate classification
specified in BS 6375-1, when tested in accordance with BS 6375-1 and, for double windows, with the
appropriate additional procedure given below.
a) For air permeability, double windows shall be tested with both windows closed, the length of opening
joint being that which is visible on the inner surface of the inner window only.
b) For watertightness, double windows shall be tested with both windows closed and the performance
class shall be that obtained by the outer windows.
c) For wind resistance, double windows shall be tested with the inner window open and the outer window
closed. The test shall then be repeated with the inner window closed and, if the outer window contains
opening light(s), this (they) shall be opened.
12 Marking
Aluminium windows manufactured in accordance with this British Standard shall be marked or labelled
with:
a) the name or trade mark of the manufacturer;
b) the number and date of this British Standard, i.e. BS 4873:20042).
2) Marking BS 4873:2004 on or in relation to a product represents a manufacturer’s declaration of conformity, i.e. a claim by or
on behalf of the manufacturer that the product meets the requirements of the standard. The accuracy of the claim is solely the
claimant’s responsibility. Such a declaration is not to be confused with third-party certification of conformity.
Annex A (informative)
Advisory notes on materials and construction
A.1 Materials
A.1.1 Thermally improved frames
Where window frames are thermally improved by the inclusion of an insulating barrier or cladding, the
insulating material should be stable under the conditions of service, e.g. under wind and dead loads and
within the likely surface temperature range of the frames.
The thermal barrier or cladding system should be sufficiently robust to withstand tests carried out in
accordance with BS 6375-1 and BS 6375-2.
NOTE 1 BS 6375 specifies performance requirements for the strength of windows based on a series of mechanical tests that check
the integrity of the frame.
The thermal barrier may be of polyurethane resin (for poured-in-place systems), neoprene extrusions, or
PVC-U, nylon, polypropylene or polyamide extrusions, used with rigid foam plastics. The thermal cladding
may be of PVC-U or rigid foam PVC extrusions.
NOTE 2 Requirements for thermal barriers are specified in prEN 140243).
A.1.2 Hardware
Where non-metallic components are incorporated, the material and specification for these should be
selected according to the required function.
A.1.3 Timber surrounds
If timber surrounds are used, the timber should conform to BS EN 942 and the workmanship to BS 1186-2.
The materials used in their preservation treatment should have no harmful effects on aluminium in contact
with the treated timber.
There should be no direct contact between mill finish aluminium and oak, sweet chestnut or western red
cedar because of the acid content in the timbers.
Advice is given in BS 8417 on the types of preservative that can be safely used where timber is to be in
contact with aluminium windows.
A.2 Construction
A.2.1 Frame joints
A.2.1.1 Sealing of joints
Any frame joints, including those of the thermal barrier or cladding, which would otherwise cause loss of
watertightness and/or increase of air permeability, should be sealed with sealant or by other means to
achieve the performance required.
A.2.1.2 Deviations in the plane of flush joints
No allowance is given for assembly and machining tolerances. Therefore, to achieve the requirements
specified in 7.3 it can be necessary to use extrusions with closer tolerances than those given
in BS EN 755-9. In practice, to avoid sharp exposed edges etc., manufacturers might need to agree
tolerances with the extrusion supplier.
It can be necessary to fit “L” shaping backing plates (chevrons) to flanges of mitred cornered frames to
correct misalignment due to angular tolerances.
3) In preparation.
A.2.2 Hardware
A.2.2.1 Hinges, stays and pivots
Friction hinges, variable geometry stays and friction pivots are expected to maintain friction without
adjustment or, when adjustment devices are provided, with adjustment.
A.2.2.2 Balances for vertically sliding windows
Balance mechanisms are available in too many types and styles for this standard to specify materials,
finishes and means of attachment to frames and sashes. However, it is most important that the window
design, including the provision of stops where required, is such that the balances can be fitted in a manner
approved by the balance supplier. Balances should be ordered to the correct length and weight for the
glazed-sash including an allowance for friction.
A.2.3 Fixings
Fixing devices should be capable of withstanding the design wind load (see BS 6399-2) and any operating
forces of the windows. Provision should also be made to prevent water penetrating any holes provided for
the fixings.
A.2.4 Weatherstripping and glazing gaskets
Care should be taken in the cutting to length and the application of weatherstripping and glazing gaskets
to minimize the probability of gaps occurring at corners due to shrinkage of the material.
Annex B (informative)
Optional features
B.1 General
When agreed between the manufacturer and the purchaser at the time of order, provision may be made for
the following optional features:
a) security devices (see also Clause 9 and B.2);
b) safety fittings (see also Clause 10 and B.3);
c) condensation channels.
B.2 Security devices
Some windows, generally the purpose-made types intended for commercial buildings, are available with
the option of being inside- or outside-glazed. The manufacturer should ensure that the product meets the
glazing requirement specified by the purchaser.
The following security devices are available:
a) locking devices, operated from the inside and with removable keys;
NOTE 1 It is particularly desirable that locking devices be provided on opening lights that allow ingress or that have fasteners
that can be reached and operated through adjacent small ventilating lights.
b) fittings that allow large opening lights to be left open for ventilation without the loss of security;
c) a glazing system such that, without breakage, the panes cannot be removed entirely from the outside
of the building;
NOTE 2 Many window designs incorporate this as a standard feature. These include windows with internal glazing beads, or with
external glazing beads that cannot be removed until the internal gasket has been taken out, or with additional security glazing
devices.
d) individual louvre blades that cannot be removed by sliding or springing them out of their end bearers.
Annex C (normative)
Specification for handing
In specifying the handing it shall be stated whether the window is viewed from the outside or the inside.
For a multi-light window, the arrangement of the multi-light shall be shown on a diagram.
NOTE 1 Window types and examples of handing are shown in Figure C.1 and Figure C.2. These handing illustrations show the
traditional British designations. The forthcoming European designations (prEN 125194)) are significantly different.
NOTE 2 The handing of a multi-light or a horizontally sliding window is related to the position of the largest opening light.
The handing of side-hung, top-hung, bottom-hung and tilt-and-turn casements is related to the position of the hinges.
The proportion opening outwards of a vertically pivoted window shall be stated.
NOTE 3 The handing of a vertically pivoted window is described by the position of the pivots in relation to the opening out portion.
4) In preparation.
Side hung left hand open out Side hung left hand open in
Projected side hung left hand
HP HR
VP VP VP
Vertical pivot right hand Vertical centre pivot right hand Vertical pivot right hand
two-thirds open out left half open out one-third open out
VR
Horizontal slider
F
F
O/Out O/In
Side hung left hand open out Side hung left hand open in Projected side hung left hand
HP HR
VP VP VP
Vertical pivot right hand Vertical centre pivot right hand Vertical pivot right hand
two-thirds open out left half open out one-third open out
VR
Horizontal slider
Vertical slider Tilt and turn right hand
F
F
Figure C.2 — Illustrations of window types and handing for working drawings
Bibliography
Standards publications
BS 1186-2:1988, Timber for and workmanship in joinery — Part 2: Specification for workmanship.
BS 5544:1978, Specification for anti-bandit glazing (glazing resistant to manual attack).
BS 6262-4:1994, Glazing for buildings — Part 4: Safety related to human impact.
BS 8213-1:1991, Windows, doors and rooflights — Part 1: Code of practice for safety in use and during
cleaning of windows and doors (including guidance on cleaning materials and methods).
BS 8417:2003, Preservation of timber — Recommendations.
BS 8220 (all parts), Guide for security of buildings against crime.
BS EN 942:1996, Timber in joinery — General classification of timber quality.
BS EN 1063:2000, Glass in building — Security glazing — Testing and classification of resistance against
bullet attack.
prEN 1279 (all parts), Glass in building — Insulating glass units.5)
prEN 12519:1996, Doors and windows — Terminology.5)
prEN 13126 (all parts), Building hardware — Fittings for windows and door height windows —
Requirements and test methods.5)
prEN 14024:2000, Metal profiles with thermal barrier — Mechanical performance —Requirements, proof
and tests for assessment.5)
prEN 14351-1:2003, Windows and pedestrian doorsets — Product standard, performance characteristics —
Part 1: Windows and external pedestrian doorsets without resistance to fire, smoke leakage and external fire
characteristics.5)
Other publications
[1] BRITISH PLASTICS FEDERATION. Gaskets and weatherstrips for windows, doors and curtain
walling — Part 1: Requirements, classification and methods of test for gaskets, co-extruded beads,
weatherstrips and cellular adhesive tapes. BPF WG 345/1. London: British Plastics Federation, 1993.6)
In preparation.
5)
Available from British Plastics Federation, 6 Bath Place, Rivington Street, London EC2A 3JE. Tel: 020 7457 5000.
6)
Website: www.bpf.co.uk.
Revisions
British Standards are updated by amendment or revision. Users of
British Standards should make sure that they possess the latest amendments or
editions.
It is the constant aim of BSI to improve the quality of our products and services.
We would be grateful if anyone finding an inaccuracy or ambiguity while using
this British Standard would inform the Secretary of the technical committee
responsible, the identity of which can be found on the inside front cover.
Tel: +44 (0)20 8996 9000. Fax: +44 (0)20 8996 7400.
BSI offers members an individual updating service called PLUS which ensures
that subscribers automatically receive the latest editions of standards.
Buying standards
Orders for all BSI, international and foreign standards publications should be
addressed to Customer Services. Tel: +44 (0)20 8996 9001.
Fax: +44 (0)20 8996 7001. Email: [email protected]. Standards are also
available from the BSI website at http://www.bsi-global.com.
In response to orders for international standards, it is BSI policy to supply the
BSI implementation of those that have been published as British Standards,
unless otherwise requested.
Information on standards
BSI provides a wide range of information on national, European and
international standards through its Library and its Technical Help to Exporters
Service. Various BSI electronic information services are also available which give
details on all its products and services. Contact the Information Centre.
Tel: +44 (0)20 8996 7111. Fax: +44 (0)20 8996 7048. Email: [email protected].
Subscribing members of BSI are kept up to date with standards developments
and receive substantial discounts on the purchase price of standards. For details
of these and other benefits contact Membership Administration.
Tel: +44 (0)20 8996 7002. Fax: +44 (0)20 8996 7001.
Email: [email protected].
Information regarding online access to British Standards via British Standards
Online can be found at http://www.bsi-global.com/bsonline.
Further information about BSI is available on the BSI website at
http://www.bsi-global.com.
Copyright
Copyright subsists in all BSI publications. BSI also holds the copyright, in the
UK, of the publications of the international standardization bodies. Except as
permitted under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 no extract may be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any
means – electronic, photocopying, recording or otherwise – without prior written
permission from BSI.
This does not preclude the free use, in the course of implementing the standard,
of necessary details such as symbols, and size, type or grade designations. If these
details are to be used for any other purpose than implementation then the prior
BSI written permission of BSI must be obtained.
389 Chiswick High Road Details and advice can be obtained from the Copyright & Licensing Manager.
London Tel: +44 (0)20 8996 7070. Fax: +44 (0)20 8996 7553.
Email: [email protected].
W4 4AL