NZS 4211-2008+a1

NZS 4211:2008
Incorporating Amendment No. 1
New Zealand Standard
Specification for performance

of windows
Superseding NZS 4211:1985
NZS 4211:2008
NZS 4211:2008
COMMITTEE REPRESENTATION
This Standard was prepared under the supervision of the P 4211 Committee the Standards Council established under the
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Standards Act 1988.
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The committee consisted of representatives of the following:
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BRANZ Ltd
*On 06/02/2016 07:34 PM brombal oceania ltd purchased a single use licence to store this document on a single computer.
Connell Wagner Ltd
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Department of Building and Housing
Glass Association of New Zealand
Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand (IPENZ)
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New Zealand Safety Glass Association
Window Association of New Zealand
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Standards New Zealand gratefully acknowledges the contribution of time and expertise from all those involved in
brombal oceania ltd may print and retain one copy only.
developing this Standard.
COPYRIGHT
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The copyright of this document is the property of the Standards Council. No part of this document may be reproduced by
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photocopying or by any other means without the prior written permission of the Chief Executive of Standards New Zealand,
unless the circumstances are covered by Part 3 of the Copyright Act 1994.
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Standards New Zealand will vigorously defend the copyright in this standard. Every person who breaches Standards New
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Zealand’s copyright may be liable, under section 131(5) (a) of the Copyright Act 1994, to a fine not exceeding $10,000 for
every infringing copy to which the offence relates, but not exceeding $150,000 for the same transaction, or to imprisonment
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for a term not exceeding 5 years. Those in breach under section 131(5) (b) of the Copyright Act 1994 may be liable to a
fine not exceeding $150,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years. If there has been a flagrant breach of
copyright, Standards New Zealand may also seek additional damages from the infringing party, in addition to obtaining
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injunctive relief and an account of profits.
Published by Standards New Zealand, the trading arm of the Standards Council, Private Bag 2439, Wellington 6140.
Telephone: (04) 498 5990; Fax: (04) 498 5994; Website: www.standards.co.nz.
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AMENDMENTS
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No. Date of issue Description Entered by, and date

1 May 2014 Align the wind zones in NZS 4211:2008 Specification for performance Incorporated in this
of windows to those zones specified in NZS 3604:2011 Timber-framed issue
buildings.
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119.224.6.232
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NOTES
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NZS 4211:2008
Incorporating Amendment No. 1
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Specification for
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performance of windows
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Superseding NZS 4211:1985
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ISBN (Print) 978-1-77551-311-7

ISBN (PDF) 978-1-77551-312-4
119.224.6.232
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NOTES
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NZS 4211:2008
CONTENTS
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Committee representation ...........................................................................................IFC
Acknowlegement..........................................................................................................IFC
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Copyright......................................................................................................................IFC
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Referenced documents.................................................................................................... 4
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Latest revisions................................................................................................................ 5
Review of Standards ....................................................................................................... 5
Outcome statement ........................................................................................................ 5
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Foreword ......................................................................................................................... 6
Section
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1 General................................................................................................................. 7
2 Definitions and abbreviations............................................................................... 9

3
4
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Sequence of measurements and tests.............................................................. 12
Testing, marking, and reporting.......................................................................... 13
5 Performance criteria........................................................................................... 14
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6 Serviceability deflection..................................................................................... 17
7 Operating of opening sashes............................................................................. 18
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8 Air infiltration...................................................................................................... 19
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119.224.6.232
9 Water penetration............................................................................................... 20
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10 Ultimate strength................................................................................................ 22
11 Torsional strength of sashes.............................................................................. 23
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Appendix
A Sash torsional test (Normative).......................................................................... 24
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B Spray nozzle layout (Normative)......................................................................... 26

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Table
1 SLS test pressures for windows not requiring specific design.......................... 17
2 Maximum operating force for opening sashes and doors................................. 18
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3 Air infiltration...................................................................................................... 19
4 Water test pressures for windows not requiring specific design....................... 20
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5 ULS test pressures for windows not requiring specific design.......................... 22

6 Extreme wind zones........................................................................................... 22
Figure
1 Allowable dimensional increase......................................................................... 15
2 Torsional test rig assembly................................................................................. 23
B1 Spray nozzle layout for water application.......................................................... 26
COPYRIGHT © Standards New Zealand 3

NZS 4211:2008
REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
Reference is made in this document to the following:
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NEW ZEALAND STANDARDS
NZS 3604:1999 Timber framed buildings
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NZS 4223:- - - - Glazing in buildings
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Part 1:2008 Glass selection and glazing
Part 3:1993 Human impact safety requirements
Part 4:2008 Wind, dead, snow, and live actions
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NZS 4229:1999 Concrete masonry buildings not requiring specific
engineering design
NZS 4299:1998 Earth buildings not requiring specific design
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NZS ISO/IEC 17025:2005 General requirements for the competence of testing and
calibration laboratories
JOINT AUSTRALIAN/NEW ZEALAND STANDARDS

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AS/NZS 1170 set Structural design actions
AS/NZS 4284:2008 Testing of building façades
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AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS
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AS 2047:1999 Windows in buildings – Selection and installation

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AS 4420:- - - - Windows – Methods of test

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Part 2:1996  Deflection test

Part 3:1996  Operating force test
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Part 4:1996  Air infiltration test

Part 5:1996 Water penetration resistance test
Part 6:1996  Ultimate strength test
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Part 7:xxxx Torsional strength test (in preparation)

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NEW ZEALAND LEGISLATION

New Zealand Building Code (NZBC) and Compliance Documents
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WEBSITES
www.legislation.govt.nz
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www.building.dbh.govt.nz
4 COPYRIGHT © Standards New Zealand

NZS 4211:2008
LATEST REVISIONS
The users of this Standard should ensure that their copies of the above-mentioned New
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Zealand Standards are the latest revisions. Amendments to referenced New Zealand and
Joint Australian/New Zealand Standards can be found on http://www.standards.co.nz.
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REVIEW OF STANDARDS
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Suggestions for improvement of this Standard are welcomed. They should be sent to the
Chief Executive, Standards New Zealand, Private Bag 2439, Wellington 6140.
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OUTCOME STATEMENT
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This Standard will provide specifications to achieve a means of compliance with the
New Zealand Building Code, and will ensure specifiers and consumers are provided with
robust and effective window systems.

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NZS 4211:2008
FOREWORD
NZS 4211 Specification for performance of windows is a Standard for the performance
testing of individual windows and doors for exterior use, that may be manufactured from
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various materials or combinations of materials. Windows and doors, including the glazing
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system and seismic subframes if any, shall be tested in the same condition as they would
be supplied ex-factory to the site.
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NZS 4211 is a specification for testing so that windows can be labelled or certified as
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complying with one or other of defined wind zones. NZS 4211 is also aimed at providing
guidance for both specifiers and consumers who should:
(a) Establish the appropriate wind zone in accordance with NZS 3604 section 5;
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(b) If the wind zone is beyond that given in NZS 3604 see section 10 of NZS 4211;
(c) Select a window that has been tested to NZS 4211 and is labelled as suitable for
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the relevant wind zone.
This amendment to NZS 4211 incorporates the Extra High wind zone for more exposed
building sites, as introduced in NZS 3604:2011. As this now covers part of the previous
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specific design region between the Very High and the ‘Extreme’ wind zones, the
‘Extreme’ zone is accordingly reduced in range but is still limited up to the maximum
Ultimate Limit State (ULS) 2500 Pa. The ‘Extreme’ zone allows windows to be tested to
NZS 4211 procedures, without consideration of the installation details even though they
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are being installed into buildings that are generally covered by NZS 3604 but may require
some specific design related to higher wind speeds. Establishing that the specific ULS
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pressure is above the Extra High wind zone of NZS 3604 and within the nominal ‘Extreme’
zone becomes the responsibility of the building design engineer using calculations in
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May ’14 accordance with AS/NZS 1170.
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This latest revision of NZS 4211 is particularly related to buildings not requiring specific
design (for example, those buildings that are covered by NZS 3604) and the wind zones
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used are derived from NZS 3604 except that a new nominal ‘Extreme’ wind zone, up to
Ultimate Limit State (ULS) 2500 Pa, is now provided for excessively exposed building
sites. Establishing that the ULS pressure is above the Very High wind zone of NZS 3604
and within the nominal ‘Extreme’ zone becomes the responsibility of the building design
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engineer using calculations in accordance with AS/NZS 1170.

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The windows of buildings that are not the subject of specific design will usually be for
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sites that do not have accurately determined wind speeds, and may be required to
comply with the local building consent authority’s assessment of the appropriate wind
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zone. Because of this they may not be as accurately related to the site as when specific
engineering design to AS/NZS 1170 is required. Nonetheless microclimate should always
be taken into account and windows selected on the basis of local knowledge.
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This Standard excludes building façades and curtain walls, and does not provide a
test for the weathertightness of the installation details at the window perimeter or the
interface between the window and surrounding façade elements in an external wall. It
does not ensure that the framing system is fit for purpose for glazing insulating glass units
and other processed glass products. When complete building façades, overall system
performance, and interaction of various façade components require assessment, then
AS/NZS 4284 Testing of building façades shall be cited as the test method.

NZS 4211:2008
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Specification for performance of windows
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1 GENERAL
1.1 Scope
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This Standard specifies requirements for the performance of windows to be installed in
exterior walls within the wind pressure limitations of the wind zones defined in table 5 and
table 6. The properties covered are strength, stiffness, operating facility, air infiltration,
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and water penetration.
This Standard specifically excludes:

(a)
(b)
Skylights or roof windows;
Interior windows;
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(c) Fixed louvres;
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(d) Acoustics, thermal, and security performance;
(e) The weathertightness of the window perimeter in the external wall or façade;
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(f) The fire rating;

119.224.6.232
(g) Building façades (including curtain walls);

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(h) Durability.
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1.2 Interpretation
For the purposes of this Standard, the word ‘shall’ refers to requirements that are essential
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for compliance with the Standard, while the word ‘should’ refers to practices that are
advised or recommended.
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The term ‘normative’ has been used in this Standard to define the application of the
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appendix to which it applies. A ‘normative’ appendix is an integral part of the Standard

and contains requirements.
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1.2.1 Commentary clauses

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Clauses prefixed by ‘C’ and printed in italic type are intended as comments on the
corresponding mandatory clauses. They are not to be taken as the only or complete
interpretation of the corresponding clause, nor should they be used for determining in
any way the mandatory requirements of compliance within this Standard.

NZS 4211:2008
1.3 Purpose of this Standard

This Standard is intended to provide a means of compliance for window and door
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designers, systems’ suppliers, manufacturers, and specifiers with the requirements of
clauses B1 Structure, and E2 External Moisture of the New Zealand Building Code, for
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the performance of windows and doors to be installed in exterior walls.
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This Standard provides a basis for testing and certifying the strength, rigidity, air infiltration,
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operation of opening sashes, and water penetration of window systems.
C1.3
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Durability properties are covered by the New Zealand Building Code. The users of
this Standard should also refer to their industry best practice guides.
Inadequate drainage of glazing rebates will affect the durability of insulating glass
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units and laminated glass.
1.4 Specific design

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The calculation of ultimate limit state (ULS) and serviceability limit state (SLS) wind
pressures between Extra High and Extreme (see tables 5 and 6) is the responsibility of
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May ’14 the building design engineer.
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For any window requiring specific design, the deflection test pressures shall be the
positive and negative SLS wind pressures and the ULS wind pressures shall be calculated
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in accordance with AS/NZS 1170, and shall include all local pressure factors and internal
pressures relevant to the location of the window on the building. Such information shall
be supplied in writing to the testing agency by the building design engineer.
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For any building not requiring specific design as defined in NZS 3604, NZS 4229, and
NZS 4299, the window rating shall be not less than the wind zone of the installation site.
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Such windows may be tested using NZS 4211 procedures where the test pressures are
based on the positive and negative ULS and SLS pressures calculated in accordance with
AS/NZS 1170, and should include local pressure and internal pressure factors relevant to
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the location of the window on the building.
Windows and doors that have calculated ULS test pressures beyond the scope of
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NZS 4211 should be tested together with their installation details in accordance with
May ’14 AS/NZS 4284.
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NZS 4211:2008
2 DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS
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2.1 Definitions
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In this Standard, unless inconsistent with the context, terms have the following meaning:
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Air conditioning Primary control of temperature, humidity, movement, and purity of
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air throughout a building or its parts
Deflection The amount of bending or flexing of the structural components in

a window
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Doors See window
External wall The enclosing part of the building that has one surface exposed to
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the outside and at an angle of more than 60o to the horizontal
Façade External skin that transfers wind loads to the framing members or
supporting structure (including curtain walls)
Fixed glass
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Glass fixed into a light or a sash
Frame The outer surrounding members of the window commonly called

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head and sill and jambs respectively. The frame may or may not
incorporate integral linings and facings
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Friction restraint A rotating or sliding frictional device holding a hinged, pivoted or
projected opening light in a selected open position and which is
overcome by force during opening and closing. The term does
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not include any device such as a stay nipped by a thumbscrew in

which the friction is manually released during window movement
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Glass Infill and glazing material fixed into a light or a sash. Glass shall
be in accordance with NZS 4223
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Glazing Taken from NZS 4223:
1. The installation of glass in prepared openings in windows,

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door panels, partitions, and the like;
2. Glass or plastics glazing sheet material for installation into a

building
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Light The unit of space resulting from the subdivision of a window

between its frame members or mullions and transoms
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Louvres, fixed Non-operable ventilation devices that are not a window or door
Louvres, operable A window unit comprising a series of operable blades of glass, or

other material, overlapping each other
Mullion The intermediate vertical members fixed between the head and sill
of a window frame subdividing the window into lights
Rail A horizontal member of a sash other than an interlocker

NZS 4211:2008
Roof That part of the building having its upper surface exposed to the
outside and at an angle of 60o or less to the horizontal
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Sash An assembly of parts, being glazing contained by stile and rail
members, that moves within, from, or across a light of a window
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Sash, frameless A sash with one or more unframed edges
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Sash, projected A sash supported and held open by frictional restraints
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Sash, sliding A sash which opens by moving horizontally or vertically without
changing plane
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Serviceability limit State that corresponds to conditions beyond which specified
state (SLS) service criteria for a structure or structural element are no
longer met. The criteria are based on the intended use and may
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include limits on deformation, vibratory response, degradation,
weathertightness, or other physical aspects
Skylight A translucent or transparent area within the roof
Specific design
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Requires calculation and design beyond the scope of this Standard
Stile A vertical side member of a sash other than an interlocker

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Structural members The elements, including mullions, transoms, meeting rails, and
meeting stiles, that perform the function of transferring loads to
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the perimeter frame
Suitably qualified A person with the skills and experience and qualifications to
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person and determine compliance with this Standard assess
Transom The intermediate horizontal members fixed between the jambs, or

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between jambs and mullion, or between mullion and mullion of a

window frame subdividing the window into lights
Ultimate limit States associated with collapse, or with other similar forms of
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state (ULS) structural failure. This generally corresponds to the maximum

load-carrying resistance of a structure or structural element but,
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in some cases, to the maximum applicable strain or deformation
Wall See External wall

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Weathertight A condition where water has been prevented from entering and
accumulating behind the cladding in amounts that can cause
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undue dampness or damage to the building elements

NZS 4211:2008
Window Includes certain frames which may be called ‘doors’ in some

installations. The name used in practice tends to be based on
function rather than on construction and this Standard covers any
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light enclosing:
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(a) A horizontally or vertically sliding sash;
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(b) A hinged or pivoted, or projected sash which closes against
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stops;
(c) A reversible (spinner) sash;
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(d) Fixed glass;
(e) Operable louvres;
(f) Any combination of the above
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Wind zone Nominated wind pressure for a given site
2.2 Abbreviations
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For the purposes of this Standard the following abbreviations shall apply:
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IANZ International Accreditation New Zealand
NATA National Association of Testing Authorities

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NZBC New Zealand Building Code
SLS Serviceability limit state

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ULS Ultimate limit state

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NZS 4211:2008
3 SEQUENCE OF MEASUREMENTS AND TESTS

In this Standard the following performance properties of a window shall be assessed in
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the following sequence:
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(a) Deflection of structural members;
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(b) Operation of opening sashes;
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(c) Air infiltration;
(d) Water penetration;
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(e) Ultimate strength of window and fixings;
(f) Torsional strength of sashes.
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C3
The relationships between water penetration, wind pressure, and the other
performance properties referred to in section 3 have been chosen as generally

satisfactory for most installations. These choices are not intended to preclude
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a designer from requiring different properties or values if they desire a better
performance or will accept a lower performance. Windows for which any lower
performance is specified are outside the scope of this Standard.
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The relationship between water penetration and wind pressure specified by this
Standard is based on the relative cost of absolutely excluding water that is under
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substantial outside wind pressure. A window complying with this Standard may
allow a little water penetration in very severe storms, which should occur only
infrequently during its life.
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NZS 4211:2008
4 TESTING, MARKING, AND REPORTING
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4.1 Tests referred to in this Standard apply to individual windows tested to demonstrate the
compliance of a window manufacturer’s range. A window, including glazing system and
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seismic subframe if any, shall be tested in the same condition as it would be supplied
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ex-factory to be installed on site.
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All testing shall be performed by an NZS ISO/IEC 17025 accredited testing laboratory
registered for such tests.
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C4.1
Windows tested with different glazing system, hardware, or other components
may perform differently.
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4.2 Each window claimed by the manufacturer to comply with this Standard, shall be marked
on the frame in letters not less than 2 mm high with:
(a) The manufacturer’s name or brand name; sN

(b) The number of this Standard, NZS 4211:2008;
(c) The rating expressed as the appropriate wind zone or wind pressures, or the ULS
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pressures in the case of specific design up to Extreme; and
(d) The air infiltration level.

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The marking shall be on a framework member, or on a durable affixed label, readable

after installation.
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4.3 Where a window is made up from repeated identical adjoining lights, it will only be
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necessary to test a minimum of two lights and a successful test result will be sufficient
to indicate larger windows created by the addition of further identical adjoining lights will
comply.
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Each test report supporting a claim of compliance with this Standard shall contain the
following information:
(a) Test report number;

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(b) Date of test;
(c) Laboratory details including accreditation agency;

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(d) Manufacturer’s details;
(e) Customer details (if different to the manufacturer);
(f) Test and sample details including SLS and ULS wind pressures tested;
(g) Summary of test results;
(h) Detailed description and drawings of the test sample manufactured including
extrusion, hardware and component numbers, and structural members tested; and
(i) Detailed test results.

NZS 4211:2008
5 PERFORMANCE CRITERIA
5.1
For buildings not requiring specific design, the windows shall be capable of meeting the
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following requirements:
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(a) The window rating shall be determined as the least demanding wind zone achieved
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by the test window for:
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(i) Deflection in accordance with section 6
(ii) Water penetration in accordance with section 9, and
(iii) Ultimate strength in accordance with section 10;
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(b) An air infiltration level shall be determined according to section 8 for a test pressure
of 150 Pa;
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(c) Where a window air infiltration level only is to be reported it is sufficient to
demonstrate either:
(i) That total infiltration measured in 8.4 is less than the allowed window
(ii)
infiltration for that level, or
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That the difference between the base and total air flows determined in 8.4,
allowing for measurement errors is less than the allowed window infiltration
for that level.
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For all other buildings, windows shall be capable of meeting similar performance criteria
at wind pressures compatible with the requirements of AS/NZS 1170.
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5.2
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This Standard requires the test sample window to be representative in both size and
shape of the largest standard window assembly in the product range as specified for
sale by the manufacturer. Where the product is not of the same size as those certified by
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testing, 5.2.1 or 5.2.2 shall apply.
5.2.1 Smaller size window assemblies (either shorter or narrower, or both), which have identical
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construction (sections and hardware) as a tested product, shall assume the same rating.
Smaller size window assemblies as described in 5.2.1 may be rated higher than the
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tested product, provided that:
(a) The calculations of deflection and stress for all structural members to arrive at
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the higher rating are certified using the actual test data for the structural
members, and the calculations are performed by a suitably qualified person who
can provide substantiating documentation; or
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(b) Where a higher rating is determined by calculation for a smaller sized window
assembly, the maximum water penetration rating that can be used is that which
the tested product has achieved.

NZS 4211:2008
5.2.2 Larger size window assemblies (either taller or wider, or both), which have identical
construction (sections and hardware) as a tested product shall assume the same or lower
rating as the tested product provided that:
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(a) The area of the window assembly is no greater than 10% in either the horizontal or
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vertical direction or no greater than 15% of total area of the tested product. This
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applies to any element within the assembly. See figure 1;
(b) The area of an adjustable louvre, or frameless sash windows, are no greater than
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10% in the vertical direction only;
(c) The calculations of deflection and stress for all structural members to arrive at
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the rating are certified using the actual test data for the structural members and
the calculations are performed by a suitably qualified person who can provide
substantiating documentation;
(d) Where the window assembly contains a moveable sash then all the assemblies
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must comply with Appendix A;
(e) The assembly is glazed in accordance with NZS 4223;
(f) sN
If a sliding sash or door is increased in size, the operating force determined during
the test should be multiplied by the ratio of the area to determine if it still complies
with the requirements at the increased size.
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Figure 1 – Allowable dimensional increase

NZS 4211:2008
5.2.3 Coupling is the joining of two or more assemblies together horizontally or vertically,
which meets the same performance criteria as for the window. Where window structural
couplings have been tested to this Standard, further testing of these same couplings in
*
other configurations is not deemed necessary provided that the calculations for deflection
d
and stress are based on actual test data for these couplings.
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Care should be taken when certifying a rating of a window assembly larger than the tested
unit to ensure that it is adequate structurally and in all other aspects for the rating chosen.
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NZS 4211:2008
6 SERVICEABILITY DEFLECTION
*
6.1 All windows shall comply with the deflection requirements of this section when tested in
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accordance with AS 4420.2.
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6.2 Unless a smaller value of allowable deflection is separately specified for windows that are
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subject to specific design, in buildings requiring specific design, the maximum deflection
due to bending of any structural member, including the outer window frame, measured
relative to the end of the member at the serviceability limit state shall not exceed
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span/200th of the span.
6.3 For windows in not subject to specific design, the SLS test pressure corresponding to
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the wind zones of NZS 3604 are shown in table 1.
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Table 1 – SLS test pressures for windows not requiring specific design
Serviceability limit state (SLS)

Wind zone as specified in NZS 3604 test pressure
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Low ± 510 Pa
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Medium ± 680 Pa
High ± 970 Pa
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Very High ± 1250 Pa

Extra High ± 1515 Pa Amd 1
May ’14
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For the Extreme wind zone within the limits defined by table 6, the serviceability test
pressures shall be supplied by the building design engineer.
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C6.3
For the determination of Low to Very High wind zones refer to NZS 3604 and for
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confirmation of these refer to the local building consent authority which may have
defined microclimatic variations.
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NZS 4211:2008
7 OPERATING OF OPENING SASHES
*
7.1 Opening sashes and doors shall be tested in accordance with AS 4420.3. The test force
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shall be not greater than the values for sashes or doors given in table 2.
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The operating forces referred to in this section shall be applied under still air conditions
and (except for the ‘to initiate movement’ in table 2) in both opening and closing directions.
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The force shall be applied to the fastener or handle in the direction of motion. If there is
no fastener or handle, the force shall be applied midway between the slides or pivots and
to the member most likely to be gripped by a user.
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If there is any change in glazing configuration (heavier or multiple-paned glazing) or a
change in seal design type to a window with a moveable sash, the product shall be
retested for operating force.
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For multiple sliding panel door configurations (for example, stacking doors) each panel
shall be measured independently and the highest figures adopted for the total product.
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NOTE – There is no requirement for evaluating operating forces on hinged or bi-fold
windows and doors.
7.2 An open vertical sliding sash shall not move when an upward or downward vertical force
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of less than 10 N is applied.
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Where friction restraints alone are relied on to control an open, pivoted or projected sash,
they shall provide sufficient restraint to prevent the window from moving when a force in
Newtons equal to 35 times the sash area in m2 is applied to the edge furthermost from
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the hinges or pivots. This force shall be applied perpendicularly to the plane of the sash
at all angles of opening up to 70% of the maximum opening distance.
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Table 2 – Maximum operating force for opening sashes and doors

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Sliding sashes
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Function Projecting sashes Sliding doors
Horizontal Vertical
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To initiate movement 90 N 110 N 200 N 180 N

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To sustain movement 90 N 90 N 160 N 110 N

NZS 4211:2008
8 AIR INFILTRATION
8.1 All windows shall comply with the air infiltration requirements of this section when tested
*
in accordance with AS 4420.4.
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8.2
Windows in this Standard can be rated as suitable for conditioned and non air conditioned
spaces.
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For windows that have no opening sashes or door panels, the rate of air infiltration at a
pressure differential of 150 Pa shall not exceed the value shown in table 3 for ‘per m2 of
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total window area’.
For windows and doors that have openable sashes or door panels, the maximum rate
of infiltration shall be determined from the geometric mean of the respective calculated
infiltration rates for both the ‘per m2 of total window area’ and ‘per m of opening length’.
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Table 3 – Air infiltration
Rate of air infiltration

sN Litres per second (L/s)
Air conditioned Non air conditioned
Per m2 of total window area 1.6 8
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Per m of opening joint length 0.6 2

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C8.2
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Example: For a window with an area of 5 m2 and opening length of 6 m the

following table shows the maximum infiltration rate.
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Rate of air infiltration Litres per second (L/s)

Air conditioned Non air conditioned
Total window area = 5 m2 8 40
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Opening joint length = 6 m 3.6 12

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Geometric mean √(8 x 3.6) = 5.36 √(40 x 12) = 21.91

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8.3 Windows with the ‘air conditioned’ rating shall be required to comply with both inward
and outward infiltration. Non air conditioned windows shall be required to comply with
inward infiltration only.
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8.4 Three separate air infiltration rate measurements shall be made for each set of base
(sealed) and total (unsealed) sample conditions, and where required, at both positive
and negative differential pressures. The mean of each set of three readings shall be
calculated, and the air infiltration rates of the test sample shall be the difference between
the means of the base (sealed) and total (unsealed) measurements.

NZS 4211:2008
9 WATER PENETRATION
9.1 All windows shall comply with the water penetration requirements of this section
*
when tested in accordance with AS 4420.5. For a typical spray nozzle layout for water
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application see Appendix B.
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9.2 For windows not requiring specific design, the maximum water penetration test pressure
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shall be taken from table 4.
Table 4 – Water test pressures for windows not requiring specific design
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Wind zone as specified in NZS 3604 Water test pressure (Pa)
Low 153
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Medium 204
High 291
Very High 375

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For windows that require specific design, the water penetration test pressure shall be not
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less than 30% of the SLS pressure corresponding to the ‘Extreme’ wind zone in table 6.
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C9.2
For the determination of wind zones refer to NZS 3604 and for confirmation
of these refer to the local building consent authority which may have defined
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microclimatic variations.
The relatively low test pressures used for the water penetration tests at 30%
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of the SLS wind pressure are not claimed to represent actual pressures during
rain storms. They are a rational set of continuously-applied static test pressures
which have been found to correlate well with observed performance during the
equivalent short term wind gusts at the specified SLS wind pressure.
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9.3 Test pressure shall be applied in the positive direction only, and may be increased
gradually so that the full test pressure is reached within 2 min. The maximum test pressure
in accordance with 9.2 shall be maintained for 15 min.
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Where testing is continued beyond the initial 15 min period, additional pressure increments
will be for 10 min intervals.
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NZS 4211:2008
9.4 Water penetration shall be assessed by visual observation. The window shall be designed
to permit no uncontrolled water penetration through the window at a static positive air
pressure.
*
NOTE – Failure occurs when uncontrolled penetration takes place, or when controlled
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water is not drained away.
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9.4.1 Uncontrolled water penetration is defined as:
(a) Water that is not contained in a purpose built collection or drainage area;
(b) Water that may wet window fixtures and finishes, reveal linings or window
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furnishings beyond the window frame; or
(c) Water that flows in a constant stream on the inside, or regular dripping.
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9.4.2 Acceptable water penetration is defined as:
(a) Minor splashing which occurs due to air infiltration, within one minute after change
(b)
of pressure;
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Minor intermittent leakage on the indoor side of operable sashes, which is contained
on gaskets, sill tracks, and thresholds.
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9.4.3 A purpose built collection or drainage area is defined as:

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A system that allows water to collect or be drained to the outside (at the cessation of
testing) from sills, other framing members, or in cavities.
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NZS 4211:2008
10 ULTIMATE STRENGTH
10.1 Windows shall not collapse when tested in accordance with AS 4420.6.
*
10.2 Collapse shall mean any one, or any combination of the following:
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(a) Dislodgement or breaking of any glazing;
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(b) Dislodgement of a frame or any part of a frame;
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(c) Dislodgement of a sash from its frame;
(d) Loss of support of a frame, such as when it is unstable in its opening in the building
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structure;
(e) Failure of any sash, locking device, fastener or supporting stay, allowing an opening
light to open.
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10.3 The test pressure shall be not less than the value given in table 5.
Table 5 – ULS test pressures for windows not requiring specific design
Wind zone as specified in

NZS 3604
sN Ultimate limit state (ULS)
test pressure pu
Low ± 720 Pa
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Medium ± 960 Pa
High ± 1360 Pa
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Very High ± 1760 Pa

Amd 1
May ’14 Extra High ± 2130 Pa
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C10.3
For the determination of wind zones refer to NZS 3604 and for confirmation
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of these refer to the local building consent authority which may have defined
microclimatic variations.
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Windows and doors may be tested within the scope of NZS 4211 up to the ULS as given
in table 6.
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Table 6 – Extreme wind zones
Wind zone Ultimate limit state (ULS) test pressure pu

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Extreme 2500
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NOTE – This ULS figure has been chosen to align with the NZBC E2/VM1.
10.4 Any windows subjected to wind pressures beyond the value in table 6 shall be outside
the scope of this Standard.
C10.4
Such windows should be tested to the requirements of AS/NZS 4284 where the
test pressures should be the positive and negative ULS wind pressures calculated
in accordance with AS/NZS 1170, and should include all local pressure factors
and internal pressures relevant to the location of the window on the building.

NZS 4211:2008
1 1 TORSIONAL STRENGTH OF SASHES
11.1 All projected sashes shall comply with the torsional test requirements of this section
*
when tested in accordance with Appendix A.
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11.2
The maximum deflection of a glazed projecting sash shall not exceed 0.04 times the
length of the shortest of two members joined at the point of load, or 50 mm whichever
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is the lesser, when loaded with a force equivalent to 0.5 times the relevant maximum
operating force for sashes from table 2. See figure 2 for an example of torsional test rig
assembly.
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C11.2
The torsional test is intended to measure the rigidity, and thus provide an indication
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of the likely smoothness of the opening action, of a sash hung on friction stays. The
given figure of 0.04 is suitable for windows. If a sash possessing characteristics
of greater rigidity is required, then a figure of 0.025 for the deflection limit should
be substituted.
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Figure 2 – Torsional test rig assembly

NZS 4211:2008
APPENDIX A – SASH TORSIONAL TEST

(Normative)
*
All projected sashes shall comply with the following torsional test methodology and
d
reporting.
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Relevant clauses from AS 4420.7 (in preparation)
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A1 PRINCIPLE
A sample unit is supported in its normal attitude, then subjected to a force perpendicular
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to the plane of the sash.
A2 APPARATUS
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The following apparatus is required:
(a) Mounting frame – of a size to fit the test sample;
(b)
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Displacement measuring device – capable of measuring displacements to an
accuracy of better than ±0.5 mm;
(c) Set of weights – calibrated to a traceable Standard, in increments of 10 N to an

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accuracy of better than ±0.1 N;
(d) Stand and pulley system – for applying force to corner of sash.
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A3 PROCEDURE
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The test shall be conducted as follows:
(a) The sash to be tested, complete with glass, shall be mounted vertically, and
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clamped at three corners so that these corners cannot move out of plane;
(b) The two corner clamps closest to the free corner shall each consist of a pair of rigid
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metal strips 5 mm wide, secured approximately parallel to each other, one on each
side of the sash. The centre line of each strip shall be aligned across the inside and
the outside corner angle of the frame of the sash. The third clamp shall securely
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hold the corner most remote from the free corner;
(c) The fourth corner shall be subjected to a force at right angles to the sash, applied
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and progressively increased in increments of 10 ± 0.1 N at 1 min intervals. The

deflection shall be observed at each interval;
(d) The sash shall be tested in both directions and the greatest deflection shall be
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within the limit specified in AS 2047.

NZS 4211:2008
A4 TEST REPORT
The following information shall be reported:
*
(a) Reference to the Standard, that is AS 4420.7;
d
(b) The name of the laboratory, authority or organisation that conducted the test,
n
including laboratory registration authority (IANZ, NATA);
(c) The name of the client, sample manufacturer, and installer, as appropriate;
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(d) An identification and detailed description of the test sample;
(e) Dated drawings of the test sample showing modifications, if any;
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(f) Displacements measured at 10 N increments, in both directions;
(g) The date on which the test was carried out;
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(h) A statement of compliance of the test sample with AS 2047.
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NZS 4211:2008
APPENDIX B – SPRAY NOZZLE LAYOUT

(Normative)
*
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B1 To test the water penetration of windows, spray the face of the windows completely and
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continuously. A typical spray nozzle layout for water application is shown in figure B1.
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TEST SPECIMEN
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Approx.
900 mm
Spray nozzle
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PLAN
1800 mm max. 1800 mm max.
sN Spray nozzle
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1800 mm
max.
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1800 mm
max.
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ELEVATION
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Figure B1 – Spray nozzle layout for water application

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B2 Spray nozzles shall be a solid cone type giving approximately 90° – 100° spray angle with
predominantly large droplet size (50% greater than 2 mm diameter). The top horizontal
row of nozzles shall be positioned at a level within ±100 mm of the top of the test
specimen.
NOTE – A Spraying Systems Co. (USA) 1/4HH-14WSQ nozzle is an example of an

acceptable square pattern solid cone type that provides a suitable droplet size and coverage
of 1.5 – 2.0 m2.

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NOTES
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NOTES
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*
NZS 4211:2008
*
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© 2008 STANDARDS COUNCIL

Approved by the Standards Council on 26 November 2008 to be a New Zealand
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standard pursuant to the provisions of section 10 of the Standards Act 1988.

Amendment No.1 approved by the Standards Council on 22 May 2014.
First published: 27 November 2008

Reprinted incorporating Amendment No.1: 28 May 2014
The following references relate to this standard:

Project No. P 4211
Draft for comment No. DZ 4211
Typeset by: Standards New Zealand

NZS 4211-2008+a1

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NZS 4211:2008

Incorporating Amendment No. 1

New Zealand Standard

Specification for performance

Connell Wagner Ltd

developing this Standard.

injunctive relief and an account of profits.

No. Date of issue Description Entered by, and date

file does not contain such viruses.

ISBN (Print) 978-1-77551-311-7

2 Definitions and abbreviations............................................................................... 9

B Spray nozzle layout (Normative)......................................................................... 26

5 ULS test pressures for windows not requiring specific design.......................... 22

COPYRIGHT © Standards New Zealand 3

NZS 4223:- - - - Glazing in buildings

JOINT AUSTRALIAN/NEW ZEALAND STANDARDS

AS 2047:1999 Windows in buildings – Selection and installation

AS 4420:- - - - Windows – Methods of test

Part 2:1996 Deflection test

Part 4:1996 Air infiltration test

Part 7:xxxx Torsional strength test (in preparation)

NEW ZEALAND LEGISLATION

4 COPYRIGHT © Standards New Zealand

robust and effective window systems.

COPYRIGHT © Standards New Zealand 5

engineer using calculations in accordance with AS/NZS 1170.

6 COPYRIGHT © Standards New Zealand

New Zealand Standard

This Standard specifically excludes:

(f) The fire rating;

(g) Building façades (including curtain walls);

appendix to which it applies. A ‘normative’ appendix is an integral part of the Standard

1.2.1 Commentary clauses

COPYRIGHT © Standards New Zealand 7

1.3 Purpose of this Standard

1.4 Specific design

the location of the window on the building.

8 COPYRIGHT © Standards New Zealand

2 DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Air conditioning Primary control of temperature, humidity, movement, and purity of

Deflection The amount of bending or flexing of the structural components in

Frame The outer surrounding members of the window commonly called

not include any device such as a stay nipped by a thumbscrew in

Glazing Taken from NZS 4223:

1. The installation of glass in prepared openings in windows,

door panels, partitions, and the like;

2. Glass or plastics glazing sheet material for installation into a

Light The unit of space resulting from the subdivision of a window

Louvres, operable A window unit comprising a series of operable blades of glass, or

Rail A horizontal member of a sash other than an interlocker

COPYRIGHT © Standards New Zealand 9

Sash, projected A sash supported and held open by frictional restraints

Skylight A translucent or transparent area within the roof

Stile A vertical side member of a sash other than an interlocker

person and determine compliance with this Standard assess

Transom The intermediate horizontal members fixed between the jambs, or

between jambs and mullion, or between mullion and mullion of a

state (ULS) structural failure. This generally corresponds to the maximum

in some cases, to the maximum applicable strain or deformation

Part 2:1996  Deflection test

Part 4:1996  Air infiltration test