Aama Window Ratings

Examine the evolution of window standards and code references identify the north american fenestration standard.

Aama window ratings. When the aama tests windows structural strength they re measuring the amount of wind pressure the window can resist in other words the speed that causes a window to break. Crf or condensation rating factor is based on the aama 1503 test method. The aama certified products directory cpd search lists products that have been authorized by aama for certification by the manufacturer. Nafs 08 aama wdma csa 101 i s 2 a440 08 and compare it to previous versions aama nwwda 101 i s 2 97 101 i s 2 a440 05 recognize and apply nafs 08 to specify product type performance level and key.

The best new windows and the best replacement windows are ones that have been certified by the american architectural manufacturers association aama and the national fenestration rating council nfrc. To get the gold label certification a window must withstand at least 94 mph of wind pressure. The aama began offering third party window performance ratings in 1962 and its certification program has been accredited by the american national standards institute ansi since 1972. In demanding environments where long term high performance and durability are desired cw and awclass rated products should be specified and installed.

Over the years the aama certification program has gone on to set and promote the highest quality standards for residential and commercial windows. There are three different condensation rating systems used in north america. This is a unitless number between 1 and 100 with the higher the number the better the resistance to condensation formation. The american architectural manufacturers association aama sets all of the performance standards for the window industry to follow.

Cr or condensation rating is based on the nfrc 500 testing and modeling. Designed to help our members excel in a dynamic and fast moving future the fenestration and glazing industry alliance or fgia is focused on building better industry synergies from glass to framing. The industry standard aama wdma csa 101 i s 2 a440 nafs north american fenestration standard specification for windows doors and skylights defines the minimum performance and testing requirements for four classes of fenestration. Aama and igma two industry leaders have unified to form an exponentially stronger alliance.

Aama is the golden standard as they test the actual quality of the materials used to make the window and how those materials. The performance based material neutral north american fenestration standard nafs governing windows doors and skylights aama wdma csa 101 i s 2 a440 is no exception. Products must bear the aama certification label to be certified in this program. Fenestration standards are always evolving due to changes in technology building codes and rating system performance requirements.