Overview
ISO 8248:1985 - Windows and door-height windows - Mechanical tests specifies standardized methods for mechanical testing of finished windows (including door-height windows) in the conditions in which they are intended to be used in a completed building. The standard applies to windows made of any material and covers procedures to determine operating forces, simulate misuse, and assess the performance of locking opening and restricted opening devices. Test procedures are illustrated in the annex and were prepared by ISO/TC 162 (Doors and windows).
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and applicability: Tests are applied to complete windows supplied as finished products, taking into account specified test conditions and the glass thickness/method of glazing (minimum and maximum thickness tests by agreement with the manufacturer).
- Test apparatus requirements: Means for fitting the window to reproduce actual building jointing; devices for applying and measuring forces and moments; displacement-measuring devices; and full-range movement capability of leaves.
- Forces to operate the window:
- Fastening/unfastening forces and moments (expressed in newtons/newton-metres).
- Static and dynamic forces to move the leaf (dynamic test uses a 5 kg mass drop attached to the handle via a steel rope).
- Displacement forces and recording of minimum/maximum values during opening and closing.
- Tests simulating misuse:
- Warping test (perpendicular force to simulate a jammed corner or leaning/wind on an open window).
- Racking test (resistance to vertical force on an open window).
- Torsion test (for sliding windows to evaluate torque on operating device fittings).
- Diagonal deformation test (behavior under accidental obstruction during sliding).
- Tests for locking and restricted opening devices: Assess the behaviour of devices under sudden loads (e.g., gusts or impacts), applying force perpendicular to the leaf at specified locations.
- Reporting and results: Test report must contain specimen description, glazing details, hardware description, method of closing, forces measured, reactions to misuse tests, and efficiency of locking/restricted devices, plus any incidents and post-test condition.
Applications and practical use
- Product validation and R&D for window manufacturers and hardware suppliers.
- Independent laboratory testing for performance claims, safety verification and quality control.
- Specification and procurement: architects, façade engineers and building specifiers use ISO 8248 procedures to define mechanical performance requirements.
- Regulatory and certification bodies assessing window safety and robustness in buildings.
Who should use this standard
- Window and glazed door manufacturers
- Component and hardware (hinges, pivots, locks) suppliers
- Test laboratories and certification bodies
- Architects, façade engineers and building safety authorities
Related standards
- Prepared by ISO/TC 162 (Doors and windows). For full compliance and context, users commonly reference other national and international standards on glazing, structural testing and hardware performance when specifying complete façade systems.